#Paris2024
I’m Callie-Ann Warrington, a Paralympic medalist from Kent. I’m a para swimmer and a current member of the Kent FANS scheme. Arriving at the #Paris2024 paralympic village was when it finally hit me that I was about to take part in the Paralympics. I never thought this day would come, having been at London 2012 to watch the para swimming.
My first event was the 100m freestyle. I was seeded 7th in the world so didn’t have high expectations. I finished 4th in the final, missing out on a medal by 0.08s. I had one day of rest before going into the 100m butterfly. I was pretty confident as this was my main event, and I was the current European champion. I was leading all the way, up until the last stroke where Faye Rogers, my GB teammate, just out touched me. I was so happy for the both of us as it was GB one-two. I had finished with a Paralympic silver medal and another personal best. No words can describe that moment when you win a Paralympic medal, even stepping up on that podium, I had so many emotions running through my body I didn’t know how to feel. Even today, it is so hard to describe.
Being at the Paralympics was a whole experience in itself. I was able to meet some amazing people, including one of my idols, Ellie Simmonds. Paralympics GB were an amazing team to be around and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to represent my country and do everyone proud. It still gives me goosebumps when people congratulate me, and I get to share my medal.
FANS Support
Kent FANS has supported me for many years now. From when I was competing at county level, to now being a Paralympian. The scheme has allowed to me to access my local sport facilities to not only do extra pool sessions, but to also use the gym facilities for training. Sport, especially swimming, can be expensive, especially when training on a regular basis for competitions, so the Kent FANS scheme, at only £15 a year, is a great way for people to access facilities and continue their training.
Thank you, Callie-Ann, for sharing your #Paris2024 experience and why the FANS scheme is so important to you. We wish you all the best for the future. (Photo Credits: Paralympics GB Comms; Callie Ann).
