Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 8, 2024 5:35 am GMT
In a remarkable display of athleticism and determination, Ryan Medrano, a contestant from the popular reality show “Survivor,” secured a silver medal for Team USA in the men’s 100-meter T38 final at the 2024 Paralympics held in Paris on Saturday. With a time of 10.97 seconds, Medrano not only showcased his personal best but also played a significant role in a stunning U.S. 1-2 finish alongside teammate Jaydin Blackwell, who broke the world record with a time of 10.64 seconds. The bronze medal was claimed by Colombian athlete Juan Alejandro Campas Sánchez.
Competitors Rise to the Occasion
Medrano’s performance was a testament to his resilience and hard work. In a post-race interview, he reflected on the motivation he drew from Blackwell’s outstanding run, stating, “Having Jaydin running like lightning has helped me push myself that much faster.” Medrano acknowledged that he aims to improve his performance, expressing a desire to slim down from his current weight of 210 pounds in pursuit of catching up to Blackwell.
The chemistry between the two American athletes extends beyond their success on the track; they have developed a supportive friendship, which has proven invaluable as they prepare for upcoming events. Medrano and Blackwell are set to compete again in the men’s 400 meters and the long jump, promising more thrilling moments for fans of para athletics.
Understanding the T38 Classification
The T38 classification is designed for track athletes with coordination impairments, including conditions like hypertonia, ataxia, and athetosis. Medrano was born with mild cerebral palsy, qualifying him for this classification, which is designated for athletes who experience moderate coordination challenges primarily affecting their lower trunk and legs.
As part of the T38 category, athletes can participate in various track events, including the 100-meter and 400-meter races, as well as the long jump. This classification underscores the vital inclusion of athletes with different levels of disability in competitive sports, promoting a spirit of camaraderie and competition within the category.
A Journey from Survivor to Paralympian
Medrano, who gained fame as a contestant on “Survivor” Season 43 in 2022, has credited his participation in the show with guiding him toward the world of para sports. Competing alongside fellow contestant Noelle Lambert—a notable Paralympian runner—Medrano was inspired to pursue athletics at a competitive level after their shared experience on the reality series.
“I never really knew about the parasports and Paralympic world until I aired on Survivor with Noelle Lambert,” said Medrano in a recent interview. He shared how Lambert opened the door to para athletics for him, providing crucial information that sparked his journey towards becoming a Paralympian.
Embracing Challenges and Self-Discovery
Reflecting on his experiences, Medrano spoke about the profound impact of engaging with the parasports community. “Before the Paralympic or the para track and field world, I really didn’t know as much about my disability, and I kind of shied away from it,” he recalled. The support he has received has encouraged him to embrace his condition rather than shy away from it, leading to a greater understanding of his personal struggles.
Medrano noted the importance of community in helping him recognize that he is not alone in facing the challenges associated with cerebral palsy. This transformation has allowed him to accept his disability more fully and strive for personal growth both as an athlete and an individual.
Celebrating Success and Looking Forward
After his impressive performance in the 100-meter T38 final, Medrano took to social media to celebrate the achievement. He shared moments with his coach, Kris Mack, whom he credited for their hard work together, highlighting the collaborative efforts that led to their success. Medrano’s personal best and silver medal mark a significant milestone not just for him but also for the visibility of para athletes in competitive sports.
The 2024 Paris Paralympics will take place from August 28 to September 8. Many amazing athletes will compete, showing their hard work and determination. Medrano and Blackwell have done really well, shining a light on U.S. para athletics and getting more people excited about these events. As they get ready for more competitions, fans can’t wait to see what these talented athletes will do next.
