Jessica Lewis Finishes 5th In Paralympics 100m
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Jessica Lewis expressed pride in her performance after finishing fifth in the women’s T53 100 metres final at the Paralympic Games in Paris today [September 4].
Competing in lane eight at the Stade de France, the four-time Paralympian clocked a time of 16.83sec, just 0.7 shy of her season’s best.
Despite a strong start, Lewis encountered a brief setback four strokes into the race, but said she was encouraged with how she managed to regain her rhythm.
“I felt calm and excited going into the race, especially after some strong starts during my warm-ups,” Lewis told Bernews. “Unfortunately, I made a slip-up four strokes in, but I stayed calm, refocused, and recovered well.
“In the past, I’ve lost focus when I’ve made slip-ups at the start, so I was happy with how quickly I got back into my strokes.
“Of course, I wanted to be on the podium, but that’s how racing goes. I’m proud of the race I executed.”
The 31-year-old also reflected on the privilege of competing in front of a large crowd at such an iconic venue.
“I didn’t get a lot of time before the race to take in the atmosphere, which was probably a good thing, so I didn’t freak out!” she said.
“After the race, it was amazing to look up at the crowd and take it all in.”
Lewis will now turn her attention to the T53 400 metres final tomorrow.
“I’ll look to get home as quickly as I can, eat and recover, and look forward to the 400,” she added. “I’ll look to refocus for that.”
In today’s race, Great Britain’s Samantha Kinghorn took home the gold in 15.64, followed by Switzerland’s Catherine DeBrunner, who finished in 15.77. China’s Fang Gao secured the bronze, crossing the line in 16.16.
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Go Jessica!
Congratulations Jessica. You gave it your best and 5th is very impressive on the world stage. You are a champion. A winner and worthy of all the opportunities that have come your way.
Extremely impressed by your progress over the years and desire to be a champion. Amazing talent and dedication.
Well done