There were cheers in households across the country in the wee hours of the morning as NSW public school alumni Jess Fox took gold in the women’s K1 Slalom.

Fourth time was the charm for Jess, who secured the gold medal with a flawless run through the white water after receiving a silver and two bronze medals at the last three games in the K1 event.

The Australian support crew was strong on the ground, with Jess’ incredibly excited school friend group in Paris to cheer on their childhood bestie.

Sally Alrich-Smythe has been friends with Jess since Year 7 and is at the games with a group of five other school mates.

The group has been following Jess at the Olympics since she first competed at age 18 when they were at Blaxland High School together. However, this is the first time they have been able to attend to watch Jess race live.

“We were still at school, then poor uni students, then COVID happened, so this is the first time we’ve been able to come,” Sally said.

“We were up in the stands and it was honestly the best thing I’ve ever seen. It was a whole bunch of us from high school in customised t-shirts with Jess’ name and face on them and it was amazing to see so many Aussies there to support her.”

There is still more to come from Jess – with upcoming events in the C1 Slalom and Kayak Cross. Noemie Fox, Jess’ younger sister, is also competing in the Kayak Cross.

Blaxland High and Leonay Public School, where Jess and Noemie both attended school, are incredibly proud of their wonderful alumni, not just for their achievements in sport, but for their humility and gratitude.

Noemie shared messages of support from both Blaxland and Leonay on her social media.

“So lucky to have had the best public primary and high school experience, teachers and friends,” Noemie wrote.

Jess also expressed her gratitude to Blaxland High for the well wishes.

“Thanks for all the support BHS! Feeling the love over here in Paris,” she said.