Can’t wait a whole year to scratch your Paralympics itch? No worries: The rest of this summer’s calendar is packed with global parasports championships. Think of them as the pre-Paralympics: a series of premier international showcases that will feature nearly every serious contender for a medal at the 2024 Games.
For the athletes, this summer’s competitions represent a crucial test, helping them assess their current performance and plan their next 12 months of training. For parasports fans, they’re a sneak preview of the 2024 Games.
Here’s where you can catch the world’s best amputee athletes over the next few months.
WORLD PARA TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Where: Paris, France
When: July 8-17
Amputee athlete to watch: As a 16-year-old at the 2021 Paralympics, Ezra Frech finished 5th in the high jump. Now 18, he’s poised to win his first international medal.
WORLD ARCHERY PARA CHAMPIONSHIPS
Where: Pilsen, Czech Republic
When: July 17-23
Amputee athlete to watch: For all his accomplishments, Matt Stutzman (aka “The Armless Archer”) has never won an individual world championship in an outdoor event. Will this be the year?
PARA SWIMMING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Where: Manchester, England
When: July 31-August 6
Amputee athlete to watch: Morgan Stickney had revision surgery on both legs after winning gold at last summer’s Worlds. Manchester represents a big test of her recovery.
PARA CYCLING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Where: Glasgow, Scotland
When: August 3-13
Amputee athlete to watch: A training crash robbed Samantha Bosco of her medal chances in Tokyo. She’s back in top form and seeking redemption in 2024.
WORLD SHOOTING PARA SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS
Where: Lima, Peru
When: September 19-29
Amputee athlete to watch: Last time Lima hosted a major international shoot (the 2019 Parapan Am Games), Kevin Nguyen took home a gold medal. He’s back in search of more hardware.
