Garvey spreads inspirational message on school visit

Garvey, a congenital above-knee amputee, has achieved plenty since turning his attention to triathlon two years ago.

He became the first above-knee amputee to finish an Ironman in Australia and has notched up wins in a number of World Para-triathlon events.

He has also finished the Rottnest Channel Swim five times.

But success did not come easily.

Garvey told students his first attempt at running did not go to plan, as he fell flat on his face.

Teacher Lauren Brown said perseverance was a key message passed on to kids last Monday.

“He was really open about everything,” she said.

“There was a strong message to keep going and about pushing the boundaries.

“It was very inspiring.”