Just when you thought Paris 2024 was over, it’s time to get the Stars and Stripes out again to cheer on Team USA. The Paris 2024 Paralympics Games run Wednesday, Aug. 28 to Sunday, Sept. 8, featuring 549 events across 22 sports.
Let’s meet the two athletes representing the Tampa Bay area:
Jenson Van Emburgh | Para Table Tennis
The Belleair Beach local is competing at his second Paralympic Games. The Seminole High School grad won a bronze medal at Tokyo 2020, and took home the silver at the 2022 World Championships.
Tracy Otto | Para Archery
It’s the first Paralympics experience for the Plant City native and University of Tampa alum — who won gold at the 2024 Para Pan American Championships. Otto’s Instagram bio reads, “blessed to be given a second chance at life.” Her story is worth a read. Editor’s note: This story covers sensitive topics relating to domestic violence.
