As the 2024 Paris Olympics draw near, we celebrate the stories of Australia's exceptional athletes who have left an indelible mark on the world stage. From the determined pentathlete Chloe Esposito to the iconic swimmer Brooke Hanson, and the inspiring beach volleyball star Mariafe Artacho del Solar, these athletes embody the spirit of Australian excellence.

Mariafe Artacho del Solar

Beach Volleyball Virtuoso

When Mariafe Artacho del Solar was playing with a volleyball at just three years old, she set in motion a series of events that would lead her to the Olympic Games.

The beach volleyball champion, who together with her teammate Taliqua Clancy, are ranked amongst the top teams in the world heading into Paris 2024. For Mariafe, true success lies in inspiring others to pursue their passions, just as Aussie stars Kerri Pottharst and Natalie Cook once did for her.

Mariafe spent her early childhood in Lima, Peru, where she practiced digging the ball on the sidelines while her older sister competed in volleyball tournaments. At age 11, her family moved to Australia and It was at Sydney’s famous Manly beach that her brother first introduced her to beach volleyball, and it was love at first spike!

At age 13, Mariafe became a breakout star, making her international debut at the Under 19 World Championships. She went on to compete in eight world junior teams before qualifying for the 2016 Rio Olympics at age 21. Returning to the Olympics Five years later, Mariafe reached Olympic glory, winning the silver medal in Tokyo with her partner in crime Taliqua Clancy.

This achievement, her career highlight, fulfilled a goal sparked by a postcard signed by Kerri and Natalie that Mariafe had come across in her childhood. From the moment she read the sporting legends' words urging people to chase their dreams, Mariafe set her sights on becoming an Olympic medallist.

Now, Mariafe is determined to add to her collection of over 20 international medals, including two Commonwealth Games silvers from Birmingham and the Gold Coast. She is widely tipped to earn another Olympic medal at Paris 2024 with Taliqua Clancy.

A strong role model for aspiring athletes, Mariafe is passionate about building resilience and courage in the community. Beach volleyball is a mental game, she says, and playing in all types of weather conditions has helped build the inner strength, discipline, and confidence that she exudes in interviews and public events. As her name suggests, she always brings a touch of sunshine.

Make an Enquiry – MARIAFE ARTACHO DEL SOLAR

Chloe Esposito OAM

Persistent Pentathlete

Chloe Esposito's success is a testament to true Australian grit, determination, and hard work. Her journey to the top has been a decade in the making, and her legacy continues to grow.

Born in Camden, New South Wales, Chloe Esposito is synonymous with excellence in modern pentathlon. This demanding sport includes fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, pistol shooting, and cross-country running, requiring exceptional versatility and endurance.

Chloe was introduced to modern pentathlon by her father, Daniel Esposito, an Olympian himself. Undeterred by naysayers and the sport's low profile in Australia, Chloe always harboured big dreams. Alongside her brother Max, she trained rigorously from a young age and began competing internationally as a teenager. Her breakthrough on the international stage came in 2012 with a seventh-place finish at the London Olympics.

Chloe’s career peaked at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Despite being an underdog, she excelled, particularly in the combined running and shooting event. Starting the final leg in seventh place, Chloe’s accuracy and endurance propelled her to a stunning gold medal win, setting an Olympic record. This victory made Chloe the first Australian to win an Olympic medal in modern pentathlon, writing her into the history books.

Since Chloe has retired from competition she has added three children to her family and she and her husband have bought a fitness and swimming facility in Lennox Head. Chloe has some wonderful insights into balancing her small business operation, a young family and wellness.

Chloe Esposito is a remarkable Australian woman who leads by example. As an inspirational speaker and an elegant role model, Chloe brings personality and charisma to any occasion, making her an asset to corporate events and beyond.

Make an Enquiry – CHLOE ESPOSITO

Brooke Hanson OLY OAM

Australia's Swimming Icon

Brooke Hanson OLY OAM is an accomplished Australian swimmer known for her impressive achievements in both national and international competitions. From a young age Hanson quickly rose to prominence in the swimming world, specialising in breaststroke and medley events.

Her dedication and talent led Brooke to represent Australia at multiple Olympic Games, where she secured a silver medal in the 100m breaststroke and contributed to her team's gold medal victory in the 4x100m medley relay at the 2004 Athens Olympics. With these performances earning recognition and respect within the Australian swimming community,

Brooke's career has been marked by numerous accolades and awards, including being named an OAM (Order of Australia Medal) for her services to swimming and the community.

Beyond the pool, Brooke turned her focus to improving the lives of others by sharing her story. After studying journalism, the talented swimmer released her autobiography “When Silver Is Gold” The Brooke Hanson Story and she loves nothing more than to share her inspirational story with everyone she meets.

Brooke now dedicates her time to more personal passions, focusing on charity work, making it a mission of hers to dedicate time to charities that align close to her passions. A professional motivational speaker, Brooke’s bubbly personality, authentic delivery and natural stage presence has been pleasantly received by audiences at any event.

Make an Enquiry – BROOKE HANSON

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