Joanna Oleksiuk

Started: She took up Para athletics at age 23. (igryfino.pl, 12 Jul 2016) Reason: "Sport was part of my life since I was a child. First I did swimming as a way of rehabilitation. Later it became my great love and passion. I then tried my hand at rowing, but due to my condition I couldn't continue in that sport. One day I met a coach who encouraged me to try athletics." (igryfino.pl, 20 Jun 2018) Ambition: To win a medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. "My goal is to break the seven-metre barrier in the women's F33 shot put. I hope that's enough for a medal. I am not thinking about ending my career yet, because there is still a lot ahead of me." (cos.pl, 23 May 2024) Additional Info: SPORTING COUPLE Her husband Przemyslaw has completed Ironman triathlons. "My husband is a triathlete, an amateur. He has done the full Ironman distance, he is an inspiration to me, giving me this injection of enthusiasm and energy every day. He loves running, cycling, swimming and we have completed a marathon together. When the moment comes that I leave this official sports path, we plan to run world marathons. It is our common passion, we are both waiting for this moment." (cos.pl, 23 May 2024)