Paris, September 2, 2024 – Will Ellard, an 18-year-old Paralympian from Beccles, Suffolk, has made waves at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games by shattering the swimming world record in the S14 intellectually impaired classification.
His record-breaking swim in the 200m freestyle on Saturday not only secured him a gold medal but also set a new benchmark with a time of 1:51.30, surpassing the previous record of 1:52.40 set by Reece Dunn at the Tokyo Games.
Ellard, who is competing in his first Paralympic Games, has quickly become a standout performer.
He first earned silver in the 100m butterfly on Thursday, marking his debut medal at these games. His impressive victory in the 200m freestyle on Saturday was a testament to his hard work and dedication.
In an interview with the BBC, Ellard expressed his elation and ambition following his world-record performance.
“I felt amazing after my swim,” he said. “I had to give my all; otherwise, I would have a lot of regrets.” Despite his record-breaking time, Ellard remains modest and focused on future improvements.
“I didn’t think I was swimming at a world-beating pace. When I touched the wall, I thought it said 1:53.3,” he admitted. “I can go a lot quicker next year, hopefully. I just need to work on a few things with my coach and try to manage my nerves better before my races.”
Ellard’s success didn’t stop with the 200m freestyle. On Sunday, he contributed to the victory of the mixed 4x100m freestyle relay team, adding another gold medal to his collection. His performance has garnered widespread admiration and support from his family and the local community.
Ellard’s parents, Lorna and Dave Ellard, have been in Paris cheering for their son and are overjoyed with his achievements.
Speaking to BBC Radio Suffolk, Mr. Ellard described the experience as “absolutely unbelievable,” and noted the emotional impact of witnessing his son’s success. “We did have to get the tissues out; it was certainly emotional,” he said.
Mrs. Ellard echoed her husband’s sentiments, highlighting the overwhelming support from their hometown. “My phone has been non-stop pinging; it’s on fire,” she remarked. “The whole of Beccles, the surrounding areas, and people we don’t even know have been sending messages.”
Looking ahead, Ellard is set to compete in the 200m individual medley on Wednesday and the 100m backstroke on Friday.
With his track record of breaking barriers and setting new standards, the swimming world will be watching closely to see what further milestones Ellard may achieve in the coming events.
Will Ellard’s remarkable performances at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games not only showcase his exceptional talent but also underscore his potential for even greater accomplishments in the future.
As he continues to train and refine his skills, Ellard’s ambition and resilience promise to keep him at the forefront of international swimming competitions.
