Meet the Bristol University students set to compete in this years’ Paralympic Games

Three students from the Univerisity of Bristol are preparing to appear in the Paralympic Games in Paris this month.

The Games will kick off on August 28th, and run through until September 8th in France’s capital. Whilst this time is normally used for students to prepare for another academic year, these individuals have something much larger on their plates to prepare for.

1. Sally Kidson

Sally recently competing in bocci. Credit: Paralympics GB.

First up is first-year Sally Kidson, who is making her Paralympic debut just weeks before starting her degree at Bristol University.

She will be competing in boccia, a sport similar to bowls, introduced to the games in 1984. Sally, the prospective Music student, will contend in the individual competition as well as in a pair alongside Will Arnott for Team GB.

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2. Michael Taylor

Michael training for the Paralympics in 2024. Credit: Michael Taylor

Whilst being a current Medicine student at Bristol Uni, Michael is also training to compete in the triathlon on September 1st.

His appearance in the Paralympics began after a life-changing injury led him to discover the sport, whilst watching the games of the 2016 Rio Paralympics during his recovery.

When talking about his first interest in the sport, Michael said: “I saw triathlon and I thought that looked like a good, a fun thing to do. Both my medical and triathlon training represent mental and physical challenges. Both were goals I set myself after my injury, something to work towards. I’ve got two years left of my medical degree and I’d like to specialise in radiology or anaesthetics.”

He went on to say: “I think the good thing about triathlon is you get outside a lot. It’s quite a social sport. You can make time to go and have bike rides and runs with friends, which makes it a lot more fun. I think I feel a lot fitter and you know, I’m feeling in good form.”

3. Dan Bethell

Dan Bethell preparing to defend his medal. Credit: Paralympics GB.

Last but not least, Dan Bethell, a Bristol Uni Law graduate will be competing beginning tomorrow, August 29th, in badminton’s SL3 classification.

Dan won a silver medal in the Tokyo 2020 Games, hoping to go one better to gold in Paris.

The 28-year-old was born with cerebral palsy, but it won’t stop him from rivalling with current gold medalist Pramod Bhagat, as he is hoping to secure his victory in front of his family and friends.

As the Paralympic flame is lit in Paris today (August 28th), these athletes will express the pride of the University of Bristol community.

Featured image credit: Paralympics GB & Michael Taylor. 

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