Hugo Taheny is an elite athlete living with Down syndrome. He’s the current world-record holder for shot put, discus and the 4x100m relay in the Virtus Global Games and International Athletics Association for Persons with Down Syndrome.
Hugo also lives with intellectual, vision and hearing impairments.
An exceptional athlete and young person, he’s achieved outstanding results through hard work and dedication. He’s totally self-funded and travels thousands of kilometres most weeks to train and compete.
Hugo has broken many world records – including his own. In 2019, he was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for representing Australia at the Virtus Global Games.
A health ambassador for Down Syndrome Australia, Hugo lectures university medical students about inclusive communication with his mentor Natalie Graham.
An exceptional role model for all young athletes, Hugo is also a volunteer coach for young athletes and children and speaks at schools, encouraging people to be active.