Aussie Paralympic athlete Jaryd Clifford has made an impressive comeback, setting a new world record in the T12 1500m category at a recent event in France, just nine months after he faced disqualification in Paris. During that race, Clifford lost a bronze medal due to a technicality involving his guide, Matt Clarke, and their tether.
At the latest meet, he completed the race in 3:40.39, improving upon his previous record of 3:41.34 from 2021 by nearly a second. Despite competing against able-bodied runners, Clifford’s achievement was particularly meaningful, as he hadn’t set a personal best in the event for over four years. “When I crossed the line, I knew it was fast but I didn’t actually find out for a few minutes until someone could read it out to me,” Clifford expressed, acknowledging the significance of the moment.
Over the last four years, Clifford, 25, has endured numerous injuries and setbacks but has finally achieved a state of health that allows him to compete at his best. Reflecting on his journey, he revealed, “For four years, I’ve really struggled… now I’m injury-free and it’s such a relief to be healthy.”
He described the new world record as a pivotal moment, representing a fresh start in his athletics career as he looks ahead to future competitions, including the upcoming world para-athletics championships in New Delhi. “I needed a fresh start in my mind and a clear separation from the past,” he stated, underlining the mental aspect of his preparation for the challenges ahead.
Clifford’s achievement coincided with fellow Australian athlete Lachlan Kennedy also making headlines for breaking the 10-second barrier in the 100m, marking a remarkable day for Aussie track and field. Clifford feels this record is symbolic of his personal growth and future potential in the sport, emphasising his commitment to training and competing: “I have a lot to keep giving this sport. It’s given me so much… So I’m in this for the long haul.”
As he embarks on this new chapter, Clifford is poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming events, fully motivated after overcoming the trials of the past. He looks forward to demonstrating his renewed self and aspirations, with a determination to continue building towards something exceptional in his athletic career.