The Grit and Gear of Paralympic Dreams: Emi Perry and Eric Newby's Road to Paris 2024
Every athlete's journey to the Paralympics is a testament to resilience, but it's the unseen hurdles that often pose the greatest challenges. For many Paralympians, one such hurdle is the daunting cost of specialized equipment necessary to compete on the world stage. This is not just about having the right gear; it's about securing a fighting chance.
The Financial Race Before the Starting Line
Consider the financial landscape for athletes like Emi Perry and Eric Newby. For Perry, a fierce competitor in the Paralympic triathlon, transitioning from wheelchair racing to triathlon meant needing a competition-grade handcycle — a piece of equipment that can easily cost upwards of $15,000. Thanks to the support from the Kelly Brush Foundation, Perry was able to secure a used handcycle for $9,000, a sum still far beyond the reach of many.
Eric Newby, who steers through the adrenaline-pumped arenas of wheelchair rugby, faces similar financial burdens. The specialized wheelchairs required for his sport are not only expensive, costing between $10,000 to $15,000, but they also have a short lifespan at the competitive level, lasting only about two years.
More Than Just Equipment: A Lifeline to Compete
The support from organizations like the Kelly Brush Foundation is more than financial aid; it's a lifeline that allows athletes to focus on what they do best — compete. Perry, who has honed her skills in the challenging terrains of Colorado, emphasizes the importance of nutrition and hydration, finding daily support in products like Skratch Labs to maintain peak performance.
Newby, on the other hand, highlights the role of innovative technology in his preparation, specifically a device from VieLight that aids in concussion recovery — crucial for someone engaged in a sport as physically demanding as wheelchair rugby.
Understanding the Paralympic Battle
Both Perry and Newby wish for greater public understanding of the Paralympics. It's not just about the physicality of the sports but also about the strategic mental battles that go unnoticed. Newby describes wheelchair rugby as a chess match, where tactical brilliance can be as exhausting as the physical skirmishes.
As these athletes prepare for Paris 2024, their stories are reminders of the broader narrative in sports. It's a narrative about the intersection of human will and the somewhat prohibitive economics of competing at the highest levels. It's about the organizations that step in to bridge this gap, ensuring that talent and determination are not sidelined by financial constraints.
Watch and Support
As the Paris 2024 Paralympics approach, let's rally behind these remarkable athletes. Their journeys remind us that sports are a microcosm of life's broader challenges and triumphs. Whether it's Perry mastering the waves or Newby strategizing on the rugby field, their stories are not just about sports; they're about overcoming life's hurdles with grace and grit.
Catch Emi Perry and Eric Newby as they compete in Paris, and remember, every cheer and bit of support counts as they not only represent their country but also the indomitable spirit of every athlete who dares to dream big, despite the odds.
What is the main goal of the Kelly Brush Foundation?
The Kelly Brush Foundation aims to provide funding for athletes to buy the gear they need to return to the competitive spirit that defined them before a life-changing injury.
What kind of specialized equipment do Paralympic triathletes need?
Paralympic triathletes like Emi Perry need specialized equipment such as carbon handcycles, which can cost as much as $15,000. These bikes are necessary to compete at a high level in their sport.
What challenges do wheelchair rugby players face regarding their equipment?
Wheelchair rugby players face the challenge of needing specialized chairs that can cost between $10,000 and $15,000. These chairs only last about two years at the international level, adding to the financial burden.
How do organizations like the Kelly Brush Foundation help Paralympic athletes?
Organizations like the Kelly Brush Foundation help Paralympic athletes by providing financial assistance to purchase the expensive, specialized equipment needed for competition, thereby reducing the financial burden on the athletes and their families.
What is the significance of adaptive sports equipment for Paralympic athletes?
Adaptive sports equipment is significant for Paralympic athletes because it is tailored to their specific needs and helps them perform at the same level as their competitors. This equipment includes modifications for posture, footrests, handlebars, and gloves, making each setup unique to the athlete.
Why is Emi Perry excited about competing in Paris?
Emi Perry is excited about competing in Paris because she has never been there before, and she recognizes the significance of competing in such a prestigious event alongside her teammates who have previously won medals.
How did Eric Newby become interested in wheelchair rugby?
Eric Newby became interested in wheelchair rugby as a way to stay active and competitive after his disability. His journey in the sport has led him to become the captain of the U.S. wheelchair rugby team, where he enjoys both the physical and tactical aspects of the game.
#Paralympics2024 #AdaptiveSports
Source:
https://gearjunkie.com/health-fitness/path-paris-paralympics-q-and-a
