BOL NAMED YOUNG WEST AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

Dual WA Olympian and 800m runner Peter Bol has been named the 2022 Young West Australian of the Year overnight at Government House as part of WA’s Australian of the Year Awards.

Nominated alongside fellow WA athlete, Madison De Rozario, Bol’s award is the result of a sensational 18-month period that saw him explode on to the international athletics scene in style.

Beginning with an incredible domestic season, Bol set a new National Record in the 800m and became the first Australian runner in 53 years to make an Olympic 800m final in Tokyo last year. Since then, Bol has followed up with consecutive final appearances this year at the World Athletics Championships and Commonwealth Games, including a silver medal in Birmingham.

Off the track, Peter has utilised his profile and story to help promote and engage young Australians in working towards their own goals, both in sport and in life. His recent coaching and mentoring work in WA’s mid-west are an example of Bol’s commitment to working with young WA athletes to help them find success.

Speaking with The West Australian, Bol admitted he was surprised by the “unexpected” honour.

“I’m really proud, there were lots of nominations, great people, it was awesome to be amongst such good vibe and energy and people doing great things for the country to be able to win it, it’s unreal I wasn’t expecting it, whoever nominated me I’m thankful,” he said.

“In the next 12 months, I hope to win some medals lot of championships coming up next and then also building those communities up to give people opportunities like the ones I’ve had to help me become here.”

Originally from Sudan, Peter and his family were forced to flee from the country’s Civil War and sought refuge in Australia. Settling in WA, Peter didn’t discover his talent for the 800m until later in life when at age 17 he was convinced by his WA High School Teacher to explore athletics further. Jumping ahead a few more years and Peter is now the country’s best ever over the 800m distance.   

“This award is a testament to Peter’s commitment on and off the track. His work has inspired a new generation of young athletes and he continues to be an exemplary ambassador for the state and the nation.” Said Athletics West CEO, Vince Del Prete,

“His work in rural communities throughout WA shows his dedication to improving the lives of West Australians and using his profile to build inclusive communities. On behalf of the Athletics West community and Board, we would like to congratulate Peter on this outstanding achievement.”

As the WA winner, Peter and the other three WA Australian of the Year award recipients will join those from the other states and territories for the national awards to be announced on January 25.

For more information and to follow all the upcoming athletics action or to find out how you can get involved, head to Athletics West’s Facebook & Instagram pages, or contact Athletics West on 08 6272 0480.

By David Smith, Athletics West

Extra Reporting by Kellie Balaam for The West Australia

Posted on 15 November 2022