Five inspiring paralympic athletes who redefine what’s possible for women

The Paralympic Games have their roots in 1948, when Dr. Ludwig Guttmann, a neurologist, organized a small sporting event for World War II veterans with spinal cord injuries at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital in England.

His goal was to use sports as a means of rehabilitation, helping wounded soldiers regain strength, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

From this small event, the Paralympic Games have grown into a global celebration of athletes with disabilities, proving that determination, skill, and passion know no limits.

The recently concluded 2024 Paris Paralympics continued this inspiring legacy, with remarkable female athletes showing that challenges are only stepping stones on the path to greatness.

Here are five female Paralympic athletes whose achievements will motivate you to dream big.

Trischa Zorn-Hudson (USA) – vision impairment

Trischa Zorn-Hudson is the most decorated Paralympian in history, earning a total of 55 medals, 41 of which are gold, in swimming. Born legally blind, Zorn began her Paralympic career in 1980 and competed in seven consecutive Games until 2004. Her incredible success in adaptive swimming highlights her resilience and unwavering dedication, proving that passion and hard work can break any barrier.

Ragnhild Myklebust (Norway) – polio survivor

Ragnhild Myklebust, from Norway, is a Paralympic legend in winter sports. Despite surviving polio, she went on to win 27 medals, including 22 golds, in cross-country skiing and biathlon between 1988 and 2002. Myklebust is the most successful Winter Paralympian of all time, demonstrating that even severe physical limitations can be overcome with determination and discipline.

Béatrice Hess (France) – cerebral palsy

Béatrice Hess, a French swimmer, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy but turned her disability into her greatest strength. Over the course of five Paralympic Games, she won 20 gold medals and set 9 world records. Hess's prowess in the pool, where she earned the nickname "The Queen of the Pool," is a testament to the idea that no physical limitation can stand in the way of excellence.

Sarah Storey (Great Britain) – limb impairment

Sarah Storey, from Great Britain, was born without a functioning left hand, but she went on to become one of the most versatile Paralympians ever. Initially competing as a swimmer, Storey later switched to cycling, where she continued her winning streak, earning 17 Paralympic gold medals across both sports. Her versatility and determination make her an inspiring figure for those seeking to excel in more than one field.

Jessica Long (USA) – leg amputation

Jessica Long, a swimmer from the United States, was born with fibular hemimelia, leading to the amputation of both her legs below the knee. Since making her debut at the 2004 Athens Paralympics, Long has won 29 medals, 16 of which are gold. Her incredible achievements in the pool, despite her early life challenges, make her one of the most inspiring figures in Paralympic history.

These remarkable athletes have broken barriers and proven that disabilities do not define one’s potential. Their stories continue to inspire people around the world, including Filipinas with disabilities, who can look to these athletes as proof that they too can achieve greatness through perseverance and dedication.