Jackson Atwood

The Background
Jackson Atwood was born with proximal femoral focal discrepancy with minor spina bifida. At a young age he had his left foot amputated, a knee fusion, and bone graft to connect his femur to his knee. Atwood entered into the Paralympic world through wheelchair basketball, and then transitioned into track and field. In 2017 he competed in the 2017 U.S. Paralympics Track & Field National Championships, placing in three events, but he didn’t take home a medal. Since then he has gone on to earn a gold in the 200m at the 2018 Arizona Grand Prix and gold in the 100m, 400m, and 800m and bronze in the 1500m at the 2019 World Para Athletics Junior Championships. Atwood has turned sights on Tokyo and is ready to take on the Games.  

Away from the track
Atwood continues to apply himself to his education, getting high grades and a strong GPA, as well as staying involved in extracurricular activities. He volunteers at ParaSport Spokane where he enjoys encourages others in overcoming obstacles and pursuing their goals.  

In their own words
“I was raised to not let my physical disability affect who I am or what I want to do.” 

“I tear down the walls of assumptions. My favorite part of being differently abled: I help make the world more accepting of people like me.” 

“I still remember the smile on my face after I made my first basket in my wheelchair. At that moment, I realized that I did not need to prove myself to others. I am fully capable of greatness!” 

Learn More:
Team USA Page
IPC Page
Heisman High School Scholarship: “Jackson Atwood, Redefining Greatness”