Paralympic gold medallist David Hall OAM will be in Orange later this month as the city's Australia Day ambassador.
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The former professional athlete was a constant at the top of the wheelchair tennis singles world rankings, his 19 Super Series Singles titles are the most recorded by any player on the international tour.
Born in January 1970, Mr Hall was the first torch bearer for the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games Relay in October 2000, with former Prime Minister John Howard lighting the torch.
It was an emotional exchange as Mr Howard handed the torch to Mr Hall, and was the start of a special home campaign for the pro-tennis gun after he progressed through the Games to eventually win gold and become the first Australian to achieve such success in the sport.
Mr Hall was also awarded an Order of Australia medal in 2000, further recognition after claiming the International Male Wheelchair Athlete of the Year and being a finalist in the World Sports Academy World Sportsperson of the year award with a disability category.
Orange City Mayor Cr Reg Kidd said it's a real honour to have Mr Hall as the city's 2020 Australia Day Ambassador.
"David has seen a number of major victories throughout his time, and is a true inspiration to those around him," Cr Kidd said.
"I look forward to meeting David next year, and hearing his story."
David will be at the annual 'Party in the Park' celebrations which are being hosted for the Orange community on Australia Day in Cook Park.
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