Paralympics New Zealand has presented Peter Cowan with his official numbered pin — #231 — at the recently held Waka Ama National Sprint Championships at Lake Karapiro, Cambridge.
Cowan won a VL3 200m bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in September last year on his debut, finishing behind gold medallist Vladyslav Yepifanov of Ukraine and Jack Eyers of Great Britain.
In December, the 29-year-old of the Ngāti Kahungunu iwi was named Māori Para Athlete of the Year.
“I’m proud to join a special group of athletes,” Cowan was quoted as saying by Paralympics New Zealand.
“To receive the pin is recognition for the huge support I have received throughout my sporting journey from whānau, friends and the wider sporting community, all of whom have been with me every step of the way.”
Cowan was only 15 when he was injured while training for the IronMāori triathlon, which led to his leg being amputated.
He took up Paracanoe at the age of 17 and had a memorable 2024 that also saw the Kiwi win a VL3 200m silver medal at the 2024 ICF Para Canoe World Championships in Szeged, Hungary.
His bronze in the French capital ensured New Zealand finished with nine medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
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