Maisie Summers-Newton Poised for Success at the Paris Paralympics
Paralympic champion Maisie Summers-Newton is approaching the upcoming Paris Paralympic Games with a sense of excitement and confidence. At just 22 years old, she is already a double Paralympic gold medalist, having triumphed in the SM6 200m Individual Medley and SB6 100m Breaststroke in Tokyo. As she prepares for her second Paralympics, Maisie is aiming to defend her titles and perhaps even add more medals to her impressive collection.
Maisie has expressed that she is in the best shape of her life, stating, "I’m swimming the fastest I’ve ever swam." This self-assurance is backed by personal bests achieved earlier this year, making her a formidable competitor in Paris. However, despite her ambitions, she maintains a balanced perspective. "I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to go out there and get gold. But at the same time, I think you’ve got to be kind to yourself and just enjoy the moment."
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Maisie's journey to becoming a Paralympic champion started at a young age. Encouraged by her family, who had a strong connection to swimming, she found solace in the water, which supported her disability in ways that land-based activities could not. "Being in the pool was freeing and amazing for me, so that’s why I kept swimming," she recalls. Her passion for the sport was solidified after watching the 2012 London Paralympics, where she was inspired by athletes like Ellie Simmonds. This inspiration fueled her determination to reach the highest levels of competition.
In Tokyo, Maisie fulfilled her dream by emulating her idol Simmonds, taking gold in the 200m Individual Medley. As she heads into the Paris Paralympics, she faces new challenges, including competing in front of spectators for the first time—a thrilling prospect for her. "I’m really excited. It will be kind of like a first Games in a sense with that type of environment," she says, reflecting on the differences between the upcoming event and the more restricted atmosphere in Tokyo.
Beyond her swimming career, Maisie has been preparing for life after sports by training to become a teacher. She recently completed her course at Northampton University and is now a fully qualified teacher. However, she is not ready to leave the pool just yet. "Sport, as much as I would love to stay in it forever, it’s not going to last forever," she notes, emphasizing the importance of having a backup plan.
As Maisie focuses on her training for Paris, she credits her teammates from the Northampton Swimming Club for their support and motivation. Training alongside fellow Paralympians Bruce Dee and twins Scarlett and Eliza Humphrey has provided her with a sense of camaraderie and competitive spirit. "Without you guys, I don’t know what I’d be able to do," she says of her teammates, highlighting the importance of their friendship and support.
With her eyes set on defending her titles and possibly adding more to her name, Maisie Summers-Newton is ready to take on the Paris Paralympics with the same determination and passion that has brought her success in the past. Her story is not just one of athletic achievement but also of resilience, inspiration, and a commitment to making the most of every opportunity—both in and out of the pool.
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