Devon Briggs

Grassroots 

Hi, my name is Devon Briggs. 

 As a child, I enjoyed playing hockey and doing martial arts, but cycling has always been special to me. It’s a non-impact sport, which helps in maintaining the longevity of my feet, and it quickly became my favourite activity. 

My hometown

I grew up in Cambridge, and that’s where my journey with cycling began. Ever since the velodrome opened in 2014, I’ve been hooked on cycling. I remember attending my first ‘have-a-go’ session in hiking boots. From that moment, I knew I had found my passion. 

My journey as a Para athlete  

My exploration into the world of Para sports started in 2014 when I was first classified as a C4 in Palmerston North at a Para talent ID Camp. I currently compete in Para cycling, classified in the C3 category. My training is focused on leveraging my strengths and managing the challenges of my bilateral talipes (club feet). The Paralympic values of determination, courage, and inspiration have been pivotal in my journey. They reflect my own experiences in overcoming my impairment’s challenges and striving for excellence in Para cycling. 

I qualified for my first Para Cycling Track World Championships in October 2022, which was a thrilling and proud moment for me. Representing New Zealand on such a big stage was an incredible experience filled with national pride and support. I’m particularly proud of winning 2 silver medals at the World Championships and then securing 4 bronze medals at the 2023 Para Cycling Track World Championships.

“These achievements have set a strong foundation for my future goals.”

I narrowly missed the opportunity to compete in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, but that has only fueled my motivation for the Paris 2024 Paralympics. My goal is to win gold in the 4km individual pursuit and the 1km time trial. 

For anyone aspiring to pursue high-performance sports, my advice is to find a sport that gives you a sense of freedom and normalcy. For me, cycling is more than just racing or winning; it’s about feeling free and ‘normal,’ without the limitations of my disability. 

Fun facts 

• A quote that really resonates with me as an athlete is “pain is temporary but quitting lasts forever.” The training and competitions can be gruelling, and pushing through the pain is part of the journey. This quote reminds me that the discomfort I feel is fleeting, but the regret of not giving my all would linger much longer. 
• My go-to karaoke song is “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John. It’s an energetic and uplifting track that I think symbolises resilience and perseverance, qualities that are very much a part of my life as a Para athlete. Plus, it’s just a great song to get everyone singing along! 
• Billy Joel is my favourite performer. His music has a timeless quality to it, and his songs have a way of speaking to a wide range of emotions and experiences. I’ve always admired his talent for storytelling through music. 
• I have a hidden talent! I can ride a bike backwards. It’s something not many people can do, and it always surprises those who see it for the first time.