PENRITH’S dynamic duo, sisters Jessica and Noemie Fox, have captured hearts and headlines at the Paris Olympics with their gold medal winning performances.
Jessica Fox made history winning gold in the Women’s C1 and K1 Slalom events becoming the first ever athlete to win gold in canoe and kayak at the same Olympics. Adding to that, Jess is not only the most decorated Olympic canoe slalom competitor ever, she is the only Australian Olympian in history with six individual medals.
In a twist of fate, the missing medal from her Olympic collection is held by sister Noemie who claimed the gold in the newly added category of Kayak Cross.
After winning every round on her way to the final, Noemie took the opportunity to signal to the sport that she has the stamina and determination to podium in her maiden Olympic games.
Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the city had ridden their journey from what started at the 2000 Olympics at the whitewater centre in Penrith.
“This is a special moment for Jessica and Noemie, and one that our City has been invested in,” Cr Carney said.
“At the age of six and three, the Fox sisters were at the Olympic venue in Penrith, which as we know now, has served their training well to become gold medal athletes.
“Penrith is the home of champions across so many sports, I’m pleased we can add more gold medals to the athletes who have grown up in and train in Penrith.”
Penrith City Council will recognise all local Olympic and Paralympic athletes at a civic event when they return from competition (date to be confirmed).