Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding: Pioneering Spirits for Paris 2024 Paratriathlon
As the dust settles on the exhilarating Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the spotlight now shifts to the equally compelling Paralympic Games. Scheduled from August 28 to September 8, 2024, the Paratriathlon events promise two days of intense competition on September 1 and 2. This edition marks the third Paralympic Games to feature Paratriathlon, with an expanded offering of 11 out of the 12 World Triathlon Para categories.
Among the athletes to watch are the dynamic British duo, Oscar Kelly and his guide, Charlie Harding. Young, ambitious, and supremely talented, Oscar, 23, and Charlie, 21, represent both the present and the future of Paratriathlon. I had the privilege of speaking with them during their recent 'kitting out' day, and it's clear they are setting no limits on their aspirations.
Calm and Collected: A Strategy for Success
Oscar and Charlie have secured their spot at the Games, not through luck, but through consistent performance, comfortably finishing within the top nine of the World Triathlon Paralympic Qualification rankings. Their approach to competition is refreshingly mature: focus on the process, enjoy the journey, and let the results speak for themselves. This mindset will serve them well not just in Paris but in future Games, which they both aspire to attend.
Evolving with Every Stroke, Pedal, and Step
Reflecting on their journey, Oscar notes a significant evolution in their performance since the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. A puncture may have thwarted their medal hopes there, but it didn't dampen their spirits or their drive to improve. Over the past two years, they've not only boosted their physical conditioning but have also leveraged technology and strategic insights to enhance their competitiveness, particularly in cycling, which had been a relative weakness.
Charlie's growth parallels Oscar's, with both athletes pushing each other to new heights. The duo now feels ready to contend with the best, a testament to their hard work and improved fitness.
Insights from Paris 2023: Preparing for All Contingencies
The World Triathlon Para Cup in Paris last year offered them a crucial reconnaissance opportunity, albeit in a duathlon format. Choosing to skip the swim to avoid potential illness, they focused on mastering the technical bike and run segments. Their preparation highlighted the importance of mechanical reliability, especially given the unique demands of Paratriathlon equipment.
Celebrating the Role of the Guide
Oscar is quick to praise Charlie, not just for his physical capabilities but for the mental and emotional support he provides. The role of a guide is often underestimated; they do much more than 'keep up'—they are pivotal to the strategy and success of the athlete they support. This partnership is about more than just competition; it's about mutual respect and shared goals.
Looking Beyond Paris: A Vision for the Future
For Oscar and Charlie, Paris 2024 is not just a milestone but a stepping stone. Oscar envisions participating in multiple Games, continually improving and setting new benchmarks. Meanwhile, Charlie's potential in individual competition remains vast, with possible rule changes offering new opportunities.
As we look ahead to the Paralympic Games, it's clear that athletes like Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding are not merely participants but pioneers. They embody the spirit of the #NotPlayingGames campaign by the International Paralympic Committee, demonstrating that with the right blend of talent, preparation, and mindset, the possibilities are boundless. Their journey is a compelling narrative of growth, resilience, and ambition, inspiring not just future athletes but all of us to rethink the boundaries of our own potential.
When and where is the Paralympic Games Paratriathlon for Paris 2024 held?
The Paralympic Games Paratriathlon for Paris 2024 will be held from August 28 to September 8, 2024, with the Paratriathlon events specifically taking place on September 1 and 2 in Paris, France.
Who are Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding?
Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding are a young and talented British duo competing in the Men’s PTVI (visually impaired) division of the Paratriathlon at their first Paralympic Games in Paris 2024. They are aged 23 and 21, respectively.
How have Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding prepared for their first Paralympic Games?
Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding have focused on consistency, maintaining a professional yet calm approach to their training and preparation. They aim to treat the Paralympic Games like any other race to avoid over-excitement and ensure they perform at their best.
What lessons did Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding learn from the World Triathlon Para Cup Paris Test Event?
At the World Triathlon Para Cup Paris Test Event, held in a duathlon format, Oscar and Charlie learned valuable lessons about the technical aspects of the course, including dealing with cobbles and numerous corners. They also highlighted the importance of mechanical preparations due to the specific challenges posed by Paratriathlon equipment.
What does Oscar Kelly think about the role of Guides in Paratriathlon?
Oscar Kelly believes that Guides in Paratriathlon are under-appreciated and face immense pressure. They not only have to keep up but also push the limits of what the paratriathletes can do, taking on significant responsibility.
What are Oscar Kelly’s long-term goals for the Paralympic Games?
Oscar Kelly aims to compete in multiple Paralympic Games, aspiring to participate in three or four Games to replicate success consistently rather than viewing Paris 2024 as a one-time experience.
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