“Made Me Cry”: Despite Suffering From Blindness, 17 YO Who Made America Proud Receives a Warm Welcome After Parapan American Games

The Parapan American Games have emerged as a breeding ground for future stars. In breeding such stars, Brazil has clinched the top spot. The Brazilian para swimmer, Maria Carolina Gomes, has personified the glory of her nation. Hoping to recreate her previous successes, the athlete who has won medals in multiple Paralympic Games participated in this year’s Parapan American Games. The same feat goes with her native, Petrucio Ferreira, the two-time Paralympic champion. But in the crowd of spearheads, Evan Wilkerson’s presence has sounded differently. 

As a USA swimming team member, Evan gave some stellar performances in the 2023 Parapan American Games. Meanwhile, his achievement has made him popular in his hometown. 

Parapan success makes Evan Wilkerson a household name

On day 1, Evan Wilkerson bagged the silver medal in individuals. In a similar line, the 17-year-old swimmer continued his fiery run and earned bronze in the 100m breaststroke. However, it was his sweet defeat to his partner in crime, William Rankine, who won the silver medal. Later, Evan stood 5th in the men’s 100 m freestyle and 4th in men’s 100m butterfly. This rare performance made him a reason for celebration in his hometown, Carolina. Many locals arrived at the airport to receive him post the event. 

On that day, Evan Wilkerson could not believe his luck. The swimmer elated calmly, “I am feeling pretty exhausted at the moment but I’m really happy and you know, seeing my team come out here to welcome me back home.”

Evan Wilkerson’s dream of the 2024 Paris Olympics 

The 2023 Parapan American Games was Evan Wilkerson’s first international outing. But he shared the squad with Paralympic champion, Evan Austin. That must have been a motivation for the 17-year-old swimmer, suffering blindness. That motivation was reflected in his voice after his homecoming when he mentioned his dream of participating in the 2024 Paris Paralympics. His track record supports his high intention at some points. 

Read more: WATCH: Gold Medalist Shares Podium With Her Dog in a Heartwarming Moment at Beijing Paralympics 2022

In 2023, Evan participated in the Citi Para Swimming World Cup in 50 L freestyle, clocking 27.76. He maintained his form in the 2023 NC/WOW/WAVE IMX/IMR Dual Meet. He clinched some competitive clockings there in the 200Y Back, 100Y Breast, 100Y Fly, and 200Y IM. The 2023 NC Wave has remained another witness of Evan Wilkerson’s glorified outings in the swimming events. This kind of stellar performance in notable competitions might intensify his aspiration for the 2024 Paris Olympics. 

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