For British triathlete Lauren Steadman, stepping onto the podium at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris was not just about clinching a bronze medal—it was a testament to her resilience in the face of long COVID, a condition that had significantly disrupted her training and overall health.
In March, while returning from a canceled race in Abu Dhabi, Steadman contracted COVID-19. The virus took a heavy toll, particularly affecting her central nervous system and severely impairing her breathing. This setback knocked her off her training schedule for weeks, as she recounted to BBC Sport. The lingering effects of long COVID meant that even basic training became a Herculean task.
Despite these challenges, Steadman was determined to compete in Paris. Cleared by her medical team just six weeks before the Games, she and her team crafted a meticulous plan to prepare her as best as they could under the circumstances. Her presence at the starting line was a significant achievement in itself, given the hurdles she had faced.
During the competition, Steadman found herself neck and neck with fellow British triathlete Claire Cashmore and American competitor Grace Norman throughout the swim and bike segments. It was during the run that Norman pulled ahead, leaving Cashmore and Steadman to secure second and third places respectively. Steadman's performance was particularly commendable, considering her health battles and the fact that the PTS5 classification—meant for athletes with mild impairments—allows for the use of approved prostheses or other supportive devices, which add another layer of complexity to the competition.
Reflecting on her race, Steadman shared with Tri247 that she had "zero expectations" going into the event due to the unpredictable nature of her health post-COVID. "Just to be on the start line was fantastic," she expressed, underscoring the personal victory of being able to compete at all.
The CDC notes that long COVID can manifest with symptoms like severe fatigue, breathing difficulties, heart palpitations, and concentration issues, often worsening after physical exertion. For an elite athlete like Steadman, managing these symptoms while maintaining a competitive edge is a daunting challenge.
Winning the bronze, therefore, was not just about adding another medal to her collection. It was a deeply personal triumph over the unforeseen challenges posed by long COVID. In her conversation with Paralympics GB, she revealed the emotional and physical toll the journey had taken, emphasizing that her goal was to bring home a medal, not just for herself, but for her country.
Looking ahead, Steadman is considering her future in competitive sports. With three Paralympic medals now under her belt, she hinted at the Paris Games possibly being her last summer event. She plans to continue her PhD at the University of Portsmouth, focusing on the mental health of athletes, and is eyeing a potential spot at the 2026 Milan Winter Paralympic Games in cross-country skiing.
Lauren Steadman's journey in Paris is a powerful reminder of the sheer determination and resilience that define the human spirit. Her story is not just one of athletic achievement but of overcoming significant health adversities to compete on the world stage—a narrative that will surely inspire many.
Who is Lauren Steadman?
Lauren Steadman is a British triathlete who has competed in multiple Paralympic Games. She won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris while managing the challenges of long COVID.
What challenges did Lauren Steadman face leading up to the 2024 Paralympic Games?
Lauren Steadman contracted COVID-19 in March 2024, which severely affected her breathing and led to long COVID. This condition impacted her training and preparation, only allowing her to be cleared to race six weeks before the Games.
What is long COVID?
Long COVID is a chronic condition that occurs after an initial COVID-19 infection. Symptoms last at least three months and can include fatigue, difficulty breathing, heart palpitations, and difficulty concentrating, among other issues. Physical exertion often worsens these symptoms.
How did Lauren Steadman perform at the 2024 Paralympic Games?
Lauren Steadman won a bronze medal in the women's para-triathlon PTS5 event at the 2024 Paralympic Games, despite the significant challenges posed by long COVID.
What future plans does Lauren Steadman have?
Lauren Steadman plans to continue her PhD at the University of Portsmouth, where she is studying the mental health of athletes. She also hopes to qualify for the 2026 Milan Winter Paralympic Games in cross-country skiing.
#Paralympics #LongCOVID
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