Cooper Robb-Jackson

A quarter miler who loves to run, Cooper Robb-Jackson has put in years of quiet work to arrive at his World Para Athletics Championships debut in New Delhi.

His global debut will see him join his idol James Turner on the same Australian team, marking a significant moment in his career as he gears up for the 400m T38.

“On the track, I’d have to say my idol is James Turner, and being able to say I’m on the same team as him is such a surreal feeling. Off the track, I’d say my mum, dad, and sister. They’re all so supportive of me, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” Robb-Jackson said.

Competing with cerebral palsy, Robb-Jackson has carved his 400m best down to 54.71-seconds and has hit the podium at both national and international level at the Oceania Athletics Championships.

“Not only does training feel good in terms of giving me a dopamine hit, achieving at such a high level definitely gives me a feeling of adequacy,” Robb-Jackson said.

“Along with this, being given the opportunity to compete for my country is honestly insane, and a contribution factor to my tendency to persevere.”

Coached by Greg Smith, Robb-Jackson says his focus is to “trust the process” on the track, also enjoying his studies as Barker College where he hopes to set up a career for life after athletics:

“My dream job outside of sport is criminal defence, or honestly any kind of law.”