Samantha Schmidt facts for kids

Samantha Schmidt (born 10 October 2001) is a talented Australian Paralympic athlete. She is known for her skills in throwing events. Samantha has proudly represented Australia at two major international events: the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Samantha's Early Life

Samantha Schmidt was born on 10 October 2001. Her parents are Gemina Moore and David Schmidt. Samantha has a condition called cerebral palsy. This condition affects how her body moves.

She also has a special family background. Samantha is from the Wakawaka and Gubbi Gubbi Indigenous groups. She grew up and went to Bundaberg State High School in Bundaberg, Queensland.

Samantha's Sporting Journey

Samantha started throwing the discus when she was only five years old. She is classified as an F38 thrower. This classification is for athletes who have certain movement challenges, like those with cerebral palsy.

In 2018, Samantha became a national champion. She won titles in both discus and javelin for open women with disabilities. In 2020, she was chosen for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic discus team.

Samantha achieved a personal best throw in March 2021. She threw the discus 33.66 meters. This throw set a new record for Australia and the Oceania region.

Competing at the Paralympics

Samantha has competed in two Paralympic Games. At the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, she competed in the Women's Discus F38 event. She finished in sixth place.

She also competed at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships. There, she placed fifth in the Women's Discus F38.

Most recently, Samantha competed at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. She finished seventh in the Women's Discus throw F38 event. Samantha is coached by Ralph Newton, who helps her train and improve.