Trenten Merrill

The Background:
Growing up in California, Trenten Merrill was always outdoors surfing, kicking around a soccer ball or riding dirt bikes. In his senior year of high school, he was hit by a car while riding passenger on a dirt bike that resulted in the amputation of his right leg below-the-knee. Soon after he was introduced to prosthetist, Gary Yamamoto, who pushed him to joining a running clinic CAF sponsored. From then on Merrill knew track and field was the path he was going to chase, making his Parasport debut in 2015 at the IPC Athletics World Championships. In 2016, he competed at the Rio Games where he placed fourth in the long jump. He has had his fair share of injuries since then, some requiring surgery, but he is ready for his chance at the Toyo Games.  

Away from the track:
Merrill has a heart the wants to serve the Paralympics community and allow as many people he can the opportunities he has had. He completed his degree in Exercise Science at Azusa Pacific University. 

In their own words:
“I experienced the difference a prosthetic made in my life from an early age, giving me hope to pursue greatness. In return, I want to be able to provide that hope to as many amputees as possible.” 

 “I dreamed about being a professional athlete. In the hospital, I thought it was taken away from me. God had plans for me, and I see now, he sure did. It would have been news to me back then.” 

Learn More: 
Team USA Page
IPC Page
CAF Page