When Tara Davis Woodhall sprinted across the track to embrace Hunter Woodhall after her stunning gold medal victory in the long jump at the Paris Olympics 2024, the world witnessed a heartwarming moment that quickly went viral. Their joyous celebration wasn’t just a highlight of the Games; it was a story of love and triumph that captivated millions. But as the curtain falls on the Olympics, another chapter is about to unfold — the 2024 Paralympics. And once again, Hunter Woodhall is gearing up to hit the track. This time, however, he faces a new set of challenges that could impact his participation.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) recently stirred up controversy with a surprising announcement: athletes sporting visible Olympic ring tattoos might face disqualification. This new rule is part of the IPC’s strict policy against ‘body advertising,’ citing that the iconic Olympic rings are seen as promoting the International Olympic Committee — a separate entity from the IPC. For many athletes, what was once a symbol of pride could now jeopardize their Paralympic dreams. So, where does this leave Hunter?

Luckily for Hunter Woodhall, he’s in the clear. Unlike some of his fellow athletes, Hunter doesn’t bear the Olympic rings on his skin, freeing him from the worries brought on by this new regulation. This means he can focus entirely on what he does best — racing towards glory. With his eyes set on the prize, Hunter is determined to add another medal to his collection as he competes in the 100m T64 and 400m T62 events. His goal is clear: to transform his trio of Olympic medals into a quartet, proving once again that he is a force to be reckoned with on the track. The stage is set, and all eyes are on Hunter as he prepares to make his mark at the Paralympics.

The making and rise of Hunter Woodhall

Hunter Woodhall’s rise to Paralympic stardom is nothing short of extraordinary—a tale that defies the odds and inspires millions. Born in Georgia in 1999, Hunter’s journey began with a challenge that would set the stage for his remarkable story. Diagnosed with fibular hemimelia, Hunter underwent amputation surgery before his first birthday. Doctors were skeptical about his future, believing he might never walk, let alone run. But they underestimated the indomitable spirit of a young boy who was destined to soar.

Growing up in Syracuse, Utah, Hunter faced the harsh realities of being different. He endured bullying, his prosthetic legs making him an easy target for cruel taunts. Yet, it was in these moments of hardship that Hunter found his calling. Sports became his sanctuary, a place where he could escape and channel his frustration. Embracing his prosthetics, Hunter discovered a passion for running that would soon turn into a lifelong pursuit.

By junior high, Hunter was already making waves in para-athletics, and by 15, he was competing on the international stage. His relentless drive and determination paid off when he made history as the first double amputee to earn an NCAA Division I scholarship—a testament to his incredible talent and tenacity.

But Hunter’s story is not just one of personal triumph; it’s also a love story that captured the hearts of fans around the world. In 2017, at the Simplot Games in Idaho, Hunter met Tara Davis, a fellow athlete whose passion matched his own. What started as a chance encounter soon blossomed into a relationship that defied expectations. By 2022, Hunter and Tara had become an Olympic-Paralympic power couple, their marriage symbolizing their shared commitment to each other and their sports.

Hunter’s athletic achievements continued to pile up. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, he won a silver in the 200m T44 and a bronze in the 400m T44, proving that his resilience knew no bounds. In the years that followed, he added more medals to his collection, including a bronze in the men’s 400m T62 at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and multiple medals at the World Para Athletics Championships.

As Hunter gears up for Paris 2024, the world watches with bated breath. His journey has been one of perseverance, love, and unwavering dedication—a story that reminds us all of the power of the human spirit. Reflecting on his path, Hunter recently wrote, “I’m leaving Paris. It has been a crazy two weeks. If you’re watching the Olympics and bummed that the Olympics are over, I’ve got great news for you. The Paralympics are coming up. I’ll be back in two weeks.”

With every race, Hunter Woodhall runs not just for medals, but to inspire and uplift, proving that no obstacle is too great when you have the heart of a champion.