Four times Paralympic Champion, Jason Smyth, is hoping to add to his collection of gold medals at this year's games in Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Named "the fastest Paralympian on the planet" following his 10.22 second 100 meter sprint in the London 2012 games, he is working hard to ensure he keeps his title.
- Mormon Irish Sprinter, Jason Smyth, receiving his second gold medal at the London 2012 Paralympics
- Paralympian Jason Smyth winning gold at the IPC European Chamionships
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A native of Derry in Northern Ireland, Jason now lives in London where he trains 5-6 hours a day, six days a week, to not only prepare for the Paralympic Games but to also fulfil his dream of competing in the Olympic Games.
Diagnosed at the age of eight with Stargardt Disease - a condition that causes a reduction in central and detailed vision - Jason is determined not to allow his disability to hold him back. "Setting my sights high keeps me focused and drives me each day to improve," he says. "I want to be the very best and show others that there are no limits to what can be achieved."
On his recently launched website - www.jasonsmyth.ie - Jason talks about his successes and his hopes for the future. He also records the number of calories burned, sit ups done, training hours spent and metres run every month as part of his training. It is pretty impressive reading and is an indication of his dedication and determination.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jason's faith has played a key part in his achievements so far. "Who I am as a person is because of my faith. It gives me a greater perspective of what is important in life, as well as an inner strength that motivates me to do better."
Former world champion sprinter, Tyson Gray, described Jason as "one of the most technically gifted sprinters alive." Acknowledging this gift, Jason says, "I am fortunate to be blessed with a talent for running fast. To truly succeed with my talent I need to work hard and continually improve so I can reach what I am fully capable of."
As the year progresses, with the Olympic Games in August and the Paralympics in September, it will be interesting to discover just what that is.http://www.jasonsmyth.ie