Quadruple amputee swimmer Ellie Challis celebrated “the most incredible day ever” after claiming Paralympic gold in Paris. The 20-year-old, who underwent surgery on each of her limbs having contracted meningitis aged 16 months, upgraded the silver she won in Tokyo by securing the S3 50m backstroke title in 53.56 seconds. Challis, who had her legs amputated above the knee and her arms below the elbow, said: “I went to the worlds in 2019 and since then I’ve just gone up and up and up. It’s been the most incredible day ever. I was so confident in myself but it’s a swimming race, anything can happen. But wow that was fun.” Challis' victory comes after she became the first British quadruple amputee to master snowboarding at the age of 14. In 2015 she ended up joining her local disabled swimming club. And four years later she made the GB regional squad before breaking the British and European record for butterfly, as well as the world record for breaststroke.  Months later she won a bronze medal at the world para-swimming championships in London. Challis then went on to win silver in the women's 50 metre backstroke event at the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo.

Challis's Journey: From Meningitis to Paralympic Gold

Challis's journey to Paralympic gold is a testament to her resilience and determination. As a young child, she contracted meningitis and was given just a five per cent chance of survival. The illness tragically led to the amputation of her limbs, but she refused to let it define her life.

Overcoming Adversity

Challis's parents, Paul and Caroline, played a vital role in her recovery and rehabilitation. They were by her side every step of the way, providing unwavering support and encouragement. They described the experience of seeing their daughter so ill as “the word any parent dreads,” but they never gave up hope.

Challis's unwavering spirit was evident from a young age. She learned to feed herself using a spoon between the stumps of her arms – with the help of her twin sister Sophie. This, along with her prosthetic legs, helped her to regain her independence and live a full life.

Finding Her Passion in the Pool

As a teenager, Challis discovered her passion for swimming, which provided her with an outlet for her energy and determination. Her dedication to the sport was quickly evident, as she progressed rapidly through the ranks and became a national champion.

A New Chapter in Paris

At the 2024 Paralympics, Challis was determined to make her mark on the world stage. She had already proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with, but this time she wanted to go for gold.

Challis's victory in the S3 50m backstroke final was a testament to her hard work and dedication. She started strongly and never looked back, touching the wall almost five seconds ahead of silver medallist Zoia Schurova.

Speaking after the race Challis said that she was always confident but was delighted with her performance on her first day of competition at La Defense Arena.

“I was very confident that I could do better than this morning and a PB was all that I could’ve asked for. Whether that got me first, second, third or wherever then that’s what it was but wow that was a good swim,” she said. “Para sport is so different. We have people drop in and out of our classification all the time and you never quite know what the year is going to hold, you really don’t.”

An Inspiration to Others

Challis's story is an inspiration to people all over the world. She has shown that anything is possible, no matter what challenges you face. Her determination to overcome adversity and achieve her dreams has made her a role model for people of all ages.

A Legacy of Hope

Challis's journey from meningitis survivor to Paralympic gold medalist is one of resilience, determination, and hope. She has shown that with hard work and a positive attitude, anything is possible.

Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we can all achieve greatness.

From The Sun to Paralympic Gold

Challis's journey to Paralympic gold started long before she entered the pool in Paris. In 2006, at the age of three, she was featured on the front page of The Sun newspaper. This heartwarming story captured the attention of the nation, showcasing her remarkable resilience and strength.

A Star is Born

Challis has been on a journey of overcoming adversity and achieving her dreams. And her journey is far from over. She is an inspiration to us all, and her story is a reminder that anything is possible if we set our minds to it.

The Future is Bright

Ellie Challis is a shining example of what can be achieved when we embrace our challenges and never give up on our dreams. She is a true inspiration and role model, and her story will continue to touch the hearts and minds of people all over the world.

A Champion's Spirit

Challis's victory in Paris is a triumph not only for her, but for everyone who has ever faced adversity and emerged stronger. It is a reminder that we all have the potential to achieve greatness, regardless of our circumstances.

Her story is one that will be told for generations to come, inspiring countless others to reach for their own dreams and make their mark on the world.