Canberra Airport Supports Michael Milton's Journey to the 2026 Winter Paralympics
Paralympian, six-time gold medallist, world record holder, and three-time cancer survivor Michael Milton will leave Canberra on 17 November to travel to Europe to race in the hope of qualifying for the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games.
In a show of commitment to local sporting excellence, Canberra Airport has announced a sponsorship of $50,000 to support Michael as he aims once again to represent Canberra and Australia on the international stage. This partnership highlights Canberra Airport’s ongoing commitment to supporting local talent, elite athletes, and inspiring individuals who embody the values of quality, courage, and excellence.
“We’re about backing people with bold ideas and those who dare to have a go,” said Canberra Airport CEO Stephen Byron. “Michael’s story is one of resilience and determination. He’s one of Canberra’s unsung heroes, and we’re very proud to support him as he takes on this next challenge.”
For Michael, this Paralympic campaign is unlike any previous one. Since retiring from ski racing at the 2006 Paralympic Games, he’s battled two more serious cancers. His goals are not solely about medals. While he hopes to qualify for five events and finish in the top 10, his main goal is to challenge himself.
“Two years after my bowel cancer diagnosis, I feel like I’m already winning. I want to celebrate that by being as healthy and strong as I can be.” said Michael Milton. “I love to ski, I love to race and I love to set big goals. Sure I’m 52 but, if I can do it, why not?.”
Michael’s first stop is Austria where he will spend time training on a glacier to “get his ski leg back”. He will then compete in races throughout the European Alps. Good results at those events will see him qualify for the Paralympic Games in March and selection in the Australian team, due to be announced mid-February.
During the Australian winter, Michael trained at Thredbo and raced at the National Championships and qualified in giant slalom. He heads to Europe ranked 32nd in the world in that event. Before he returns to Canberra for Christmas, he hopes to improve his ranking but also qualify to race slalom, downhill, super giant slalom and alpine combined.
“There are a couple of critical points along the way: days when I have just one or two chances to hit the mark. A lot of athletes will already have qualified last season or have events in January they can go to. I’m setting myself a tough task to qualify for five events in just four weeks but I genuinely think I can do it.”
Assuming his success in Europe in December, Michael will spend February in the US preparing for the 2026 Paralympic Games which start on 6th March. He is still seeking corporate and community support. Follow his journey at www.michaelmilton.com.