Australian swimming legend Ellie Cole has wowed fans, friends and peers with some beautiful baby news
Cole is Australia’s most decorated female Paralympian and dominated the pool for years before her retirement in 2022 (not long after her third Commonwealth Games in Birmingham).
In four Paralympics she won 17 medals, including six gold, and at the Comm Games she won one silver and three bronze medals.
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She recently received a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) award in the Australia Day honours in January.
And the 2024 highlights keep coming with Cole taking to Instagram on Monday to share her latest family news.
“They say when your own child is born, it is one of the greatest miracles you could ever hope for,” she wrote with a picture of the child.
“We are feeling so blessed – Felix Parker Cole joined our family this morning, unexpectedly, three weeks early.
“We know that he will make us see the world in an entirely different way. Welcome to the world, little Felix. All we see is you.”
Aussie swimming great Libby Trickett was one of several high-profile stars to pass on their congratulations.
And former swimming champ and Seven TV presenter Joh Griggs said: “Oh massive congratulations. How wonderful ❤️❤️❤️”
Journalist Jacqui Mooney said: “This is THE most beautiful news ❤️ Beyond thrilled for you!”
Hayley Willis said: “CONGRATULATIONS!!! Welcome to literally the best chapter of your lives. Felix is absolute perfection ❤️❤️❤️”
And Australian Paralympic swimmer Col Pearse said: “I’ve already organised many play dates with Felix, I’ll be teaching him some swear words and how to annoy mama Ellie.”
“Awww look at the hair, congrats Ellie!!!” another friend wrote.
Cole was diagnosed with a rare tumour when she was a young girl and lost her leg when she was three years old.
But that has certainly not stopped her from being a high achiever.
And fans expected that success would carry on into parenting with her partner Silvia.
“Whaaaaaaaaaaaat a beautiful little baby!!! Love his name!!!! Congratulations Mummas xxxx,” wrote former Australian beach volleyballer Kerri Pottharst.