Joe Murray


The Backstory:
Joe Murray’s journey started before he was even born. After complications, he was born early at 35 weeks and developed issues with his right leg in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU). Four weeks later they amputated his leg below the knee and was he fitted with a prosthetic at 6 months. Murray started swimming at three and fell in love. After watching an amputee compete at the 2012 Olympics, he realized success at that level was achievable for amputees. With the help of a coach, he started competing in the world of para swimming, taking home multiple titles from the World Para Swimming World Series in 2019.

Away from swimming:
Murray has achieved much at a young age but has made it a priority to stay involved in his high school activities. He loves spending time with his friends, staying active, and enjoying the outdoors.

In their own words:
“I can’t remember a time where I doubted my ability to swim based on my situation”

“I never really felt self-conscious about it. The only thing was I can’t really run as much so not being able to do that, that was the only thing. I’ve always embraced it. I’ve never really been embarrassed about it or anything.”

“I can’t speak for everyone with a disability, but I’m open to talking about it at any time. A lot of people think it’s rude to ask about it. If little kids ask, their parents will tell them no and pull them away. It’s OK to ask.”

Learn More:
Team USA Page 
The Times News: “An Average Joe”

TEAM USA

Paralympian 2019|

1🥇

 

  • Sport: Swimming
  • Limb Difference: 
  • DOB: 8/19/03
  • Residence: Burlington, NC
  • College: Still in H.S. – Western Alamance HS
  • Previous Games: 2019|
  • Classification: S10/SB9/SM10

 

Amplitude