Telaya Blacksmith had not even been born when Cathy Freeman brought a nation together on a heady night in September 24 years ago, but as far as idols go, she’s a pretty good fit.

Telaya, an Endeavour Sports High School Year 11 student, will run the 400 metres in the T20 classification at the Paris Paralympics, with heats starting on Tuesday morning (AEST).

Like Australia’s 2000 Olympic champion, Telaya initially took a liking to the shorter sprints.

While the 400m became a natural fit for Cathy, Telaya’s move was borne more from necessity with the T20 100m not on the Paris program.

She quickly had to whittle down her time to qualify, shaving around two seconds off her personal best within the space of a few months to make the cut.

The 16-year-old, who has an intellectual disability that affects her memory, also qualified for the long jump.

“It will be competitive and very intense race,” she said. “But to get a PB for the 400m would be amazing.”

Born in Perth, Telaya is from Warlpiri Country in the Northern Territory. She was raised in the remote community of Lajamanu, 900km south of Darwin, and is the first Paralympian from the area.

After moving to Dubbo, she found athletics to her liking and a shift to Sydney has helped her progress further still.

“The school has really helped me a lot with training and to fit everything in,” she said.

Telaya is not only a Paralympian but also a member of the Sydney Swans Academy.

Endeavour Sports High School Principal James Kozlowski said Telaya was a true champion – both on and off the track.

“Telaya's positivity and warmth makes her popular with both students and staff. She absolutely loves our school and despite all her success is so humble,” he said.

“The whole Endeavour community is united behind Telaya’s Paralympic campaign.”