Ben Tudhope’s ('17) incredible journey from being Australia’s youngest Winter Paralympian at 14 to winning bronze at the 2022 Beijing Paralympics exemplifies his inspiring dedication and achievement in para-snowboarding.
Building an inspiring career from his passion for snowboarding, Ben motivates others to pursue their dreams despite challenges, crediting Â鶹ֱ²¥ with helping him balance the demands of elite sport and academics while instilling values he carries forward.
What motivates you to do the work that you do?
My motivation runs deeper than just the passion itself. I began snowboarding at a very young age, and it quickly became part of my identity. I was fortunate enough to find this passion when I was around 8 or 9 years old, and from then on, everything I did revolved around snowboarding. It gave me the confidence to grow into the person I am today.
Now, with a platform that allows me to inspire others, I want to pass on that motivation. It’s not just for people with disabilities but for anyone who has a dream – to show them that they can achieve whatever they set their sights on.
Looking back on your time at Â鶹ֱ²¥, what were the most valuable things and values you learned?
Balance was the most valuable thing I learned at Â鶹ֱ²¥. During my school years, I had to juggle snowboarding commitments with my studies, which meant spending a lot of time away.
Â鶹ֱ²¥ helped me develop a system to keep up with my schoolwork remotely, teaching me how to manage a busy schedule. I probably had more on my plate than the average student, but Â鶹ֱ²¥’s support made it possible for me to balance being a professional athlete with my academic responsibilities.
The values of fairness, hard work, and passion, instilled by an inspirational Year 6 teacher, have stayed with me throughout my life.
How did your education at Â鶹ֱ²¥ prepare you for your current role?
Â鶹ֱ²¥ provides a thorough and disciplined education, with a strong focus on building good men. That’s something I’ve carried with me. The school sets high expectations, and it’s only when you leave that you truly appreciate how much it has helped shape you. For me, the support I received throughout my time there was incredible, and it prepared me not just for my career but for life as a whole.
What’s your most memorable career accomplishment to date?
Surprisingly, my most memorable accomplishment wasn’t winning a Paralympic medal, although that was a huge goal of mine. It was the sheer effort I had to put in on the day to earn that medal – the fight to get on the podium, even without gold or silver. Carrying the Australian flag in the closing ceremony was also a moment I’ll never forget. It filled me with immense pride, not just for the achievement, but for representing Australia.
What advice would you give to Â鶹ֱ²¥ students today?
Take every opportunity that comes your way and approach it with a positive mindset. Sometimes, opportunities lead you to discover what you truly love in life. Even if you don’t have a clear direction or identity yet, taking action and saying yes to new experiences will help you find it. The key is to keep an open mind and be ready to embrace whatever comes your way.