Australian Athletics is celebrating one of its most inspiring figures today, with Geelong coach Anula Costa named the 2025 recipient of the Peter Norman Humanitarian Award, in recognition of her outstanding commitment to inclusion, diversity, and empowerment through sport.
The announcement was made on Peter Norman Day ( 9th of OOctober ), which commemorates the legacy of the famed Australian sprinter. The award is presented annually to a member of the Australian athletics community who exemplifies Norman’s values through contributions to human rights, equality, philanthropy, or humanitarian causes.
A tireless advocate for athletes with disabilities and individuals from underrepresented communities, Costa has used her platform as a coach and mentor to transform lives far beyond the athletics track. Her influence includes coaching her first Paralympian, Kelly Cartwright, who went on to win gold, empowering para-athletes internationally through Active Sri Lanka, and mentoring Indigenous sprinter Telaya Blacksmith to her Paralympic debut last year.
“Receiving this award is such a surprise and a shock. I am so emotional,” Costa said. “This is such a humble award and I am very proud to accept it. I was a very close friend of Peter Norman after being selected to the 1999 Olympics Academy for officials and coaching, and since then, Peter and I were greatly connected through athletics and friendship. Receiving an award in his honour has made my day and my life in Australia with the sport I love.”
Costa’s impact extends well beyond Australia. She has led coach education programs in Sri Lanka, helping to establish pathways for para-athletes on the international stage, and has been a strong advocate for women in coaching in Australia, mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Her philosophy is rooted in empowerment: “When I read what this award stands for, I thought, yes, this is what I’ve tried to do — support and uplift people’s lives, not only in athletics but in every community: refugees, Indigenous people, Sri Lankan athletes, and women in sport. For me, coaching is life coaching. It’s about more than medals — it’s about happiness, learning, and caring for one another.”
The Peter Norman Humanitarian Award, inaugurated in 2018, honours individuals who embody the courage and compassion Norman displayed during the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, when he famously stood in solidarity with U.S. athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos. Past recipients include Eloise Wellings, Rob de Castella, and Peter Bol.
“Anula represents the true spirit of athletics,” said Australian Athletics President Jane Flemming. “She reminds us that success isn’t only measured in records or podiums, but in the way we lift people up. Her legacy is one of empathy, empowerment, and opportunity.”
Costa expressed gratitude to her long-time mentor Don Blyth, Jill Taylor for the opportunities given to her, and Nathan McConchie, who nominated her for the award. She also thanked her athletes, fellow coaches, officials, and communities who supported her journey.
In honour of Costa’s humanitarian work, Australian Athletics will make a donation to her nominated cause, the Australian Prostate Centre — a cause close to the heart of her dear friend, Peter Norman.
