A Glimpse into Iona's Journey

At just 13 years old, Iona Winnifrith is turning heads as the youngest athlete representing ParalympicsGB at the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Her remarkable journey in the world of para swimming has reached new heights, especially following her stunning double victory at the Para Swimming European Championships in Madeira, where she set both European and British records in the process.

Early Beginnings

Iona’s passion for swimming was ignited early on, fueled by her mother, Gillian, who introduced her to swimming at just six months through 'Mother and Baby' sessions. Inspired by her older brothers who swam competitively, young Iona joined their swimming club and quickly excelled. By the age of five, she had earned a spot on the ‘Learn to Swim’ team, and over the past five years, she has established herself at the Tonbridge Swimming Club in Kent.

A Rapid Ascent

The year 2024 has been nothing short of a whirlwind for Iona. She has competed in several key events, including the British Summer Championships and the Para Swimming World Series in Italy. Her mother reflects on this breathtaking journey, noting how Iona has impressively transitioned from national to international competitions within just six months.

Championship Wins

At the European Championships, Iona clinched victory in the SM7 200m Individual Medley before dominating the SB7 100m Breaststroke, posting an incredible time of 1:29.91. With this kind of performance, she is poised to tackle the challenge of her first Paralympic Games.

Inspired by Legends

Looking up to icons like Ellie Simmonds OBE, who made her mark at a similar age, Iona draws confidence from the success of fellow swimmers. Having met Ellie several times, Iona expresses admiration for her achievements and shared experiences. “Ellie has been a really big inspiration for a lot of people,” she says, speaking to the impact that representation has in sports.

Thriving Under Pressure

Ranked first in her classification, Iona embraces the pressure that comes with competition as a motivator. “I believe I perform my best when under pressure,” she states confidently. Iona’s dedication, complemented by her self-driven challenges, drives her to pursue excellence.

Managing Life As an Athlete

Balancing rigorous training with schoolwork poses challenges for any young athlete. Iona has learned to juggle her commitments, often training after school, while her supportive family encourages her to rest when needed. “It’s just about getting the balance right,” she says, reflecting on her daily life.

Encouraging Others

Iona advocates for inclusivity in sports, urging children with disabilities to explore local clubs that offer swimming. She believes that engaging in sports can enhance both physical strength and emotional well-being. Reflecting on her own experiences during the pandemic, Iona found that swimming played a crucial role in maintaining her mental health.

Community and Camaraderie

Building friendships within the para swimming community continues to enrich Iona’s journey. She fondly recalls bonding with teammates during competitions, emphasizing the sense of belonging and support that inclusive sports provide.

Looking Ahead to Paris

As the Paris Games approach, Iona expresses her excitement, sharing how her school community is rallying behind her: “All the teachers at my school were like, ‘She's going to Paris!’” With spirited enthusiasm, she prepares to make her Paralympic debut.

Conclusion

Iona's story is not just about personal achievement; it’s a testament to determination, resilience, and the power of support. With the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games on the horizon, the world will be watching this young athlete as she aims for the gold, inspiring countless others along the way.

For resources on inclusive sports and how to participate in Paralympic activities, check out the Super Movers for Every Body program.