World champion kayaker and triple-amputee veteran Jon White is competing among over 1,000 athletes from around the globe at the Shaw and Partners WA Race Week. Known for his remarkable resilience and elite athleticism, Jon is set to take on The Doctor, a challenging 27km race from Rottnest Island to Sorrento Beach, this Saturday alongside Olympians and world champions and other ocean ski paddlers who have travelled from all over the world for this prestigious series.
Jon’s life changed forever in 2010 during a tour in Afghanistan as a Royal Marine Commando when he stepped on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The incident resulted in the loss of three limbs but ignited a journey of recovery, resilience, and achievement. Jon learned to walk again and became a celebrated para-athlete, excelling in sprint, marathon, and ocean kayaking.
Returning to Race Week for the second time, Jon’s participation symbolises the spirit of pushing boundaries and overcoming adversity.
“Competing at Shaw and Partners WA Race Week is an incredible experience,” Jon shared. “It’s not just about racing; it’s about the community, the challenge, and celebrating resilience. I’m honoured to be competing alongside such talented athletes again this year.”
About Shaw and Partners WA Race Week
Running from 23–30 November 2024, Shaw and Partners WA Race Week is Australia’s largest and most prestigious ocean racing event, offering a $240,000 prize pool. Featuring over 1,000 competitors, including Olympians, world champions, and elite surf lifesaving athletes, Race Week draws international attention for its thrilling races and community engagement.
Fellow athletes competing this year include:
- Ali Day – 10-time Coolangatta Gold Ironman Champion
- Lana Rogers – Three-time Australian Ironwoman Champion
- Matt Bevilacqua – Ironman Champion and endurance specialist
- Jemma Smith – 2024 Coolangatta Gold winner
- Georgia Miller – Multiple-time Australian champion in surf lifesaving
- Cory Hill – Three-time World Ocean Paddling Champion
- Riley Fitzsimmons – Dual Olympian and 2024 Olympic Silver Medallist
Key events include:
- The Doctor (Sat 30 Nov): A 27km marquee race with a $45,000 prize pool.
- Fenn West Coast Downwinder: A 24km race launching the week.
- Dash for Cash: An exciting head-to-head sprint on 29 November.
- Twilight Paddleboard Dash: A 2km sprint offering a $15,000 prize pool.
Sorrento Beach will transform into the event hub, featuring live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and the chance to meet world-class athletes like Jon White.
Event Details:
https://oceanpaddler.com/ocean–events/wa–race–week/
