UNC Alum and Army Veteran Kelly Elmlinger Gears Up for the Paris Paralympics
In the heart of every Tar Heel, there's a spark of relentless spirit and resilience. This year, as the Paris Paralympics unfold from August 29 to September 8, that spirit is personified in Kelly Elmlinger, a former Army medic and proud North Carolina graduate. Elmlinger is set to compete in the women's PTS4 para-triathlon event—a classification defined by the International Paralympic Committee for athletes with moderate impairments, allowing the use of approved prostheses or other supportive devices during the bike and run segments.
Kelly’s journey is nothing short of heroic. Serving in the 82nd Airborne Division's Combat Aviation Unit, she was deployed three times—once to Afghanistan and twice to Iraq. Her role involved the harrowing task of recovering the remains of soldiers from aircraft crashes and shootdowns, a stark reminder of the sacrifices made in service. After her military service, Kelly pursued an orthopedic nursing degree at North Carolina, graduating in 2010, and later worked at the Brooks Army Medical Center (BAMC) in San Antonio, focusing on soldiers with catastrophic injuries.
However, life took an unexpected turn when Kelly, the caregiver, became the patient. Diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a rare form of soft-tissue cancer in her left shin, she faced a new kind of battle. Initially resistant to amputate, Kelly underwent several procedures to remove the cancer while trying to save her leg. Despite her efforts, the decline in her quality of life led her to choose amputation. "When I started competing, I was still trying to figure out who I was: a new identity, a wounded warrior, an adaptive athlete. I knew there was more to what I can be, more to my potential," Kelly reflected on her decision.
Her competitive spirit flourished as she participated in the 2014 and 2015 Department of Defense Warrior Games. By 2020, she was competing in the Tokyo Paralympics, albeit in the more challenging PTS5 classification due to the absence of a PTS4 race. Undeterred, Kelly finished an impressive seventh.
Now, with a nine-race winning streak, including the 2023 World Championship under her belt, Kelly is poised for success in the PTS4 category at the Paris Paralympics. Her story is a testament to the enduring Tar Heel spirit—a blend of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
For those inspired by tales of resilience and triumph, Kelly Elmlinger's journey from the battlefield to the Paralympics is a compelling narrative of overcoming adversity. As she prepares for her races on September 1 and 2, the entire North Carolina community and supporters worldwide are rooting for her. It's indeed a great day to be a Tar Heel.
Stay tuned and support Kelly in her remarkable journey at the Paris Paralympics. Her story is not just about sports; it's about redefining possibilities and pushing beyond the visible limits. Let's cheer for Kelly and every athlete showing the world the incredible strength of the human spirit.
Who is Kelly Elmlinger?
Kelly Elmlinger is a former Army medic and North Carolina graduate who will compete in the para-triathlon in the women's PTS4 category at the Paris Paralympics. She is also a cancer survivor and a decorated athlete with a background in orthopedics nursing.
What is the PTS4 classification in para-triathlon?
The PTS4 classification in para-triathlon is for athletes with moderate impairments. This includes the use of approved prostheses or other supportive devices for amputee athletes. It accommodates athletes with activity limitations due to limb deficiency, hypertonia, ataxia, athetosis, impaired muscle power, or range of movement impairments.
When and where will Kelly Elmlinger compete in the Paris Paralympics?
Kelly Elmlinger will compete in the para-triathlon at the Paris Paralympics on September 1 and 2. The Paralympics will run from August 29 to September 8, 2024.
What is Kelly Elmlinger's background in the Army?
Kelly Elmlinger served as an Army medic in the 82nd Airborne Division's Combat Aviation Unit. She was deployed three times, once to Afghanistan and twice to Iraq, specializing in downed aircraft recovery. She later worked as an Army nurse at the Brooks Army Medical Center in San Antonio.
How did Kelly Elmlinger become a para-athlete?
Kelly Elmlinger became a para-athlete after being diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a rare form of soft-tissue cancer. She initially attempted to save her leg but eventually decided to undergo amputation. She has competed in multiple events, including the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, where she raced in the PTS5 classification before the PTS4 category existed.
How did Kelly Elmlinger perform in previous competitions?
Kelly Elmlinger finished seventh in the PTS5 classification at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics. She is currently on a nine-race winning streak, including winning the 2023 World Championship, making her a strong contender for a medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
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