Who to watch this upcoming 2020 Paralympics
The upcoming 2020 Paralympics are set to begin August 24th, 2021 and continue till September 5th. This is the first Olympics and Paralympics to have ever been postponed in history. The delay of the games have provided enough time to implement proper precautions and to complete qualifications. There are many events and athletes to look forward to as this event rolls around. Here are a few that have caught the world’s attention:
Allysa Seely
Seely is a former gold medalist from the 2016 Rio Para-triathlon. In addition, Seely is a six-time world medalist. She was diagnosed with Chiari II Malformation, Basilar Invagination, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which all heavily affect the brain and spine and their connective tissues. Seely lost her leg in 2013 and performs her events with a prosthetic.
Anastasia Pagonis
This Paralympics is Pagonis’ first debut. She is a swimmer who has lost her full vision to a disease called Stargardt. Pagonis swam at a young age but lost interest as she lost her ability to see but with support from family and friends she decided to give it another try. Pagonis credits her great accomplishments to her coach, Marc Danin, and her service dog Radar.
David Brown
This is not Brown’s first Paralympic experience some might actually call him a veteran. Brown is known for his 2014 run where he was coined “the fastest blind man in the world”. He was a gold medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics with his running guide Jerome Avery, their duo is known as “team BrAvery”.
Hunter Woodhall
Woodhall has been a star since his high school days. He set the state record in Utah for the 400m and the 4x400m relay. In addition, he is a four-time world championship medalist. Woodall was born with a condition that prevents his lower limbs from fully developing properly. Woodall lost both of his legs at the age of one but he feels as though he is a better athlete because of it.
Jessica Long
Long is a four-time Paralympian. Long has won 13 gold medals at the Paralympics and she is the second most decorated Paralympian. Long was born with fibular hemimelia which caused her to be missing many important bones in her lower legs and feet. Long had her legs amputated and began her process using prosthetic legs. Long began her swimming career earlier on and even was at one point the youngest member of the US team at 12 years old. Long is a large advocate and name in the swimming community and has served as an inspiration for many years.
These athletes amongst many others have heavily overcome adversity and turned their hardships into positive endeavors. They serve as great role models to all walks of life. It is truly that much more inspiring to see these athletes compete at this level despite it all. Tune into the Paralympics on August 24th for the opening ceremony and keep these great athletes in mind as they compete for gold.
