On the waves of success: Josia pot wins Paralympics gold

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At the Paralympics 2024 in Paris, the 21-year-old para swimmer Josia pot from Erlangen achieved remarkable success. In a gripping finale over 150 meters, he secured the gold medal. Despite an unfortunate start that threw him back to third place after the first 100 meters, he managed an impressive final sprint. In a time of 3: 00.16 minutes he overtook his competitors, including the Australian swimmers Ahmed Kelly and Grant Patterson, and finally secured victory.

Pass for swimming was given in his childhood, a former triathlete was given by his father Hans-Georg. On a vacation in Mallorca, he taught him to swim. Pot remembers how important his father gave him again and again that swimming is essential for everyone, whether with or without disabilities. It was a crucial moment in his childhood when he had his seahorse in the swimming pool - an experience that laid the foundation for his sporting career.

challenges and risks in swimming

Josia pot fights against Tar syndrome, a rare genetic disease that leads to severely restricted physical mobility. His hands have grown directly on his shoulders and his legs are unequal and stiffened. But despite these physical challenges, he found a place of freedom in the water and developed into a top athlete in para-swimming. His successes are overshadowed by a tragic family history. In 2022 he lost his beloved grandfather and a year later also his dog. He also had to cancel the 2023 World Cup in Manchester due to an illness. In view of these experiences, it is understandable that the return to the competition stage is an immense emotional challenge.

The risks that pot is exposed in competition should not be underestimated. The target stop with the head in particular is a serious threat. Studies from the Cologne Sports University have shown that such head hits can potentially cause cognitive impairments. Despite this serious danger, pot remains determined and pursues its sporting ambitions. His supervisor Anna Pfretzschner is always nearby during the competitions to be able to intervene immediately in an emergency.

a triumph under great stress

Despite all the adversities, Josia pot was able to reach an impressive first place at the 2024 Paralympics and just a day later he also brought the silver medal over 50 meters back, where he finished 47.06 seconds. His successes have caused enthusiasm in the Arena La Defense in Paris. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also did not miss the opportunity to express her congratulations. She praised him for a "fantastic performance" and the two had an unforgettable moment of exchange after the race.

After his gold win, pot reflected on the emotional meaning of this success for him. "To get out of this way now and celebrate this success means with a lot, a lot," he said visibly moved. He described himself as "very, very proud and grateful" and describes the situation as incredible, something that is difficult to put into words. With his newly won medals and attention that he gave him, he hopes to raise awareness of para sports and to promote positive changes in swimming.

Josia pot is not just a brilliant swimmer; He also embodies the unshakable spirit and the resistance of many athletes who believe in their dreams despite considerable challenges and personal losses. With his appearance at the Paralympics, he not only won a golden medal, but also conquered the heart of many enthusiastic spectators and became an inspiration for people with and without disabilities.