Louise owns a hairdressing salon, Louise Duncan Hair Design, in Levin. She suffered meningococcal meningitis when she was 17 and continues to battle the residual effects of the disease. She was classified as a Para athlete five years ago, having been shortlisted for the Tokyo Paralympics, but unfortunately, the campaign was canceled due to COVID. "We are very grateful for the support from Property Brokers towards our journey," said mum, Frankie, who is currently residing in Versailles, France, at Haras De Jardy, a picturesque equestrian centre, with the team of four, until the Paralympic stables open to athletes on 30 August.
"I have such a great support team. It really does take a village to get me here", says Louise, acknowledging the tremendous support she has received from the Local Levin community.
The team will be based in Versailles, where the equestrian events are being staged at the 2024 Olympic equestrian venue, and Louise will be competing as an individual. To qualify for the final on 7 September, Louise has to finish in the top eight of the first round, the final being a Musical Freestyle. This involves dressage movements choreographed to music and judged on artistic merit and correctness of execution. The first round is a set test with each combination performing the same movements before five international judges. Louise relishes the prospect of "realising a dream true" and competing at the Paralympic Games.
We wish Louise all the best on her Paralympic debut, and our team will eagerly watch from all across provincial New Zealand to see Louise and Showcase BC in action at Versailles.
