Grace Norman knows what it feels like to fall just short of a dream. At the Tokyo Paralympics, she stood on the podium, a silver medal around her neck, but her heart ached for gold. For a champion like Norman, who had tasted Olympic victory in Rio with a gold medal in 2016, silver wasn’t enough. The sting of that loss has been her constant companion, driving her every step of the way as she trains for redemption in Paris.

Known for her quirky “Champion goat shower” celebrations, Norman is more than just a competitor—she’s a warrior with a mission. “I’ve had four years to dedicate to triathlon and learn to really enjoy the process of day-to-day,” she said, reflecting on the journey that has brought her to this point. And it’s not just about the races; it’s about every grueling workout, every meticulous meal, and every drop of sweat shed in pursuit of one goal: reclaiming the top spot.

With a fierce determination that comes only from knowing the pain of a near miss, Norman has overhauled her entire approach. Her training is more intense, and her focus sharper than ever. As a two-time Paralympic triathlete, she isn’t just aiming to compete—she’s aiming to make history. This summer in Paris, Grace Norman isn’t just coming back to race; she’s coming back to win.

Grace Norman reflects on Tokyo Paralympics heartbreak, aims for gold with new techniques

Grace Norman is determined to turn her Paralympics heartbreak into triumph with a renewed focus and new techniques. Reflecting on her past experiences, the American sprinting star shared her philosophy for success in an interview with Olympics.com on 29 August 2024. “It’s electric and you just feel it. For me, when I’m having a good race, it just feeds me. It feeds the energy,” she said, highlighting how the atmosphere and excitement fuel her performance.

Norman’s journey has been remarkable, from her early days training goats, cows, and chickens to becoming one of the most decorated sprinters. She first wore prosthetic legs at just one year old and has always been supported by her family and fans. “I love hearing yelling, cheering. I love seeing my family. It gets me excited and helps me relax,” she noted. The cheers from last year’s undefeated season continue to energize her, and she described, “And when I’m relaxed and smiling, I’m having a good race. It’s almost like free energy.”

Now, as the 2020 Cedarville University graduate aims for gold, she is determined to overcome the disappointment of missing gold by just 0.81 seconds in Tokyo. The 26-year-old athlete has made significant changes this year, including a new diet and rigorous training. Losing 20 pounds has helped her feel lighter and run faster.  

With five of her 11 World Championship medals earned since the last games in 2021, Norman’s momentum is rising. However, she was disappointed by the quieter audience at the World Championships and is eager to experience the energy of a vibrant crowd again. With her improved preparation and renewed drive, Norman is set on achieving her goal of gold at the upcoming Paralympics.

Path to victory: Grace Norman’s key strategies and unstoppable positive mindset

As Grace Norman gears up for her third Paralympics, she is eager to showcase her dominance in track and field. Norman has achieved impressive results since her para-triathlon debut in 2014, including a bronze in the 400m T44 and a silver in the PT4. Just two years later, she claimed gold at the 2016 Rio Paralympics. “Going in three years ago I bet winning gold didn’t even cross my mind,” Norman said after her monumental win in Rio. Reflecting on her journey, she added, “Now getting closer to here I believed in myself [that] I could take gold, and so to get here and take it for the US, first in history – I’m beyond excited.”

Her success has made her a strong contender for the Paris Paralympics. This time, her approach has evolved. She has embraced new strategies and altered her training routine, and she is now receiving valuable advice from her college track coach on improving her running techniques. As a newlywed, Norman is adjusting to changes in her body, noting, “I feel like I do have a different body. I’ve never been this lean before, in like almost nine, 10 years of being in tri.” She feels this new body composition is ideal for competition.

Norman is also focusing on better leg prosthetics and refining her training structure. She plans to enhance her cycling and push herself even harder. With a mindset dedicated to applying her new techniques and eliminating mistakes, Norman is determined to repeat her historic success. Will these adjustments be enough to secure gold this time? Share your thoughts!

Before you leave, check out the latest Think Tank episode on EssentiallySports. Maddison Skinner’s coach, a renowned name in American volleyball, gives a behind-the-scenes look at his star player.