Jodie Grinham of Britain Becomes First Pregnant Athlete to Win a Paralympic Medal
Prince Jean
Sunday, September 1, 2024
British Paralympian Jodie Grinham, visibly pregnant, competes in the women's individual compound open at the Paris Games, where she historically won a bronze medal.
British archer Jodie Grinham made history by becoming the first pregnant athlete to secure a Paralympic medal, clinching bronze in the women’s individual compound open at the Paris Games. The Paralympic Games organizers highlighted this remarkable achievement, which saw Grinham competing in her third trimester.
Grinham faced unique challenges during the competition, including managing distractions from her unborn child's movements.
"We got to the third end, and I had to tell my baby, 'Not right now, mommy loves you but we’ll do kickies in a minute,'"
she shared with the Paralympic Games media team. Her perseverance paid off, earning her a place on the podium alongside Turkey’s Öznur Cüre Girdi, who took the gold, and Iran’s Fatemeh Hemmati, the silver medalist.
In preparation for the Paralympics, Grinham and her coach adapted her training to accommodate the physical changes brought by pregnancy. They practiced adjustments to her stance and shooting technique to ensure she could remain competitive despite her changing body.
Looking ahead, Grinham is set to compete in the mixed team compound quarterfinals with teammate Nathan McQueen. Her goal extends beyond personal achievement; she aims to reshape perceptions of pregnant athletes competing at high levels.
"I want people to see that a pregnant lady can compete at the highest level and medal. Anything is possible. Just go and do it,"
she stated, setting a powerful example for athletes around the world.
