Australian Athletics is today celebrating one of its most inspiring figures, with Geelong coach Anula Costa named as the 2025 recipient of the Peter Norman Humanitarian Award, recognising her commitment to inclusion, diversity and empowerment through sport.
Announced today on Peter Norman Day (October 9) as the country remembers the famed Australian sprinter, the Peter Norman Humanitarian Award is given to a member of the Australian athletics community who exemplifies the spirit of Norman through their work in human rights, equality, philanthropy or humanitarian causes.
A tireless champion for athletes with disabilities and those from underrepresented communities, Costa has used her platform as a coach and mentor to transform lives far beyond the track.
Her influence has stretched from coaching her first Paralympian in Kelly Cartwright who went on to win gold, to empowering para-athletes internationally through Active Sri Lanka, and mentoring Indigenous sprinter Telaya Blacksmith to her Paralympic debut last year.
In every instance, Costa has created environments where athletes feel supported, seen and able to thrive.
“Receiving this award is such a surprise and a shock. I am so emotional,” Costa said.
“This is such a humble award and I am very proud to accept it. I was a very close friend of Peter Norman’s after being selected to the 1999 Olympics Academy for officials and coaching, and since then, Peter and I were greatly connected through athletics and friendship. Receiving an award in his honour has made my day and my life in Australia with the sport I love.”
Costa’s impact is as diverse as it is profound. She has facilitated coach education programs in Sri Lanka, helping to establish pathways for para athletes on the international stage. In Australia, she has been a strong advocate for women in coaching, mentoring the next generation of leaders as well as coaches.
Her philosophy has always been to use athletics as a tool for empowerment, building confidence, resilience and community in those who may otherwise have been left behind.
“When I read the words about what this award stands for, I thought, ‘yes, this is what I’ve tried to do. I’ve tried to support and uplift people’s lives, not only in athletics but in every community – refugee backgrounds, Indigenous backgrounds, Sri Lankan athletes, women in sport. It makes me proud to know I have done this,” Costa said.
“For me, coaching is life coaching. It’s about more than medals. It’s about making sure athletes leave training with happiness, with learning and a sense of caring for one another. If they walk out with a smile, that makes me happy.”
The Peter Norman Humanitarian Award was inaugurated by Australian Athletics in 2018 and has since honoured the likes of Olympians Eloise Wellings, Rob de Castella and Peter Bol. Inspired by Norman’s historic stand at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, where he wore the badge of the Olympic Project for Human Rights in solidarity with USA’s Tommie Smith and John Carlos, the award celebrates those who emobidy the courage and compassion that Norman is remembered for.
“Anula represents the true spirit of athletics. She reminds us that success isn’t only measured in records or podiums but in the way we lift people up,” said Australian Athletics President Jane Flemming.
“Her legacy is one of empathy, empowerment and opportunity and we are proud to recognise her with the Peter Norman Humanitarian Award.”
Costa wanted to use the opportunity to thank her long-time mentor Don Blyth who introduced her to Athletics in Australia, Jill Taylor for the opportunities that she has been given, and Nathan McConchie who nominated her for the award, stating it is with their continued support she has been able to make a difference.
“It’s all my athletes too that I have coached, my fellow coaches, officials and all the communities that have given me the opportunity to work with them who have contributed to be receiving this award.”
In supporting Costa’s humanitarian efforts, Australian Athletics will make a donation to her nominated cause, the Australian Prostate Centre – a cancer treatment centre and cause close to the heart of her dear friend Peter Norman.
To make a donation, please visit australianprostatecentre.org.au
By Sascha Ryner, Australian Athletics
Posted: 9/10/2025
