The Paralympics are not just a competition that features some of the best para-athletes in the world. It acts as a showcase to
celebrate the amazing feats the athletes accomplish all while overcoming a disability that should otherwise prohibit them from athletic competition at the highest level.

Two para-athletes took the center of attention inIowa. Eastern Iowa natives and University of Northern Iowa track athletes, Erin Kerkhoff and Jessica Heims competed in their respective events at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Kerkhoff placed seventh in the 100-meter-dash and fifth in the 400-meter run. Heims notched sixth in the discus throw.

Kerkhoff said, “I am very honored to be a part of the [Paralympic] community and a part of Team USA.”

These two were showcased in the most- streamed Paralympics ever.

The para-athletes competed in the biggest stadium in France, the Stade de France. Kerkhoff had the privilege of competing in the stadium in front of a sold-out crowd of 70,000.

Kerkhoff said, “The energy was electric, and the Paralympic movement is growing more and more every year.”

Heims threw in the F64 classification. Heims competes with a prosthetic in place of her amputated left leg, below her knee. Heims placed sixth with a top throw of 34.68 meters.

Kerkhoff ran in the T13 classification, meaning she can only see a few feet in front of her. The Panther ran a 12.75-second 100-meter-dash in the finals heat to place seventh. In the 400-meter run,Kerkhoff ran a 57.19 in the finals heat, setting a new personal record. Achieving a new personal best was one of her main goals for the Paralympics.

Kerkhoff said.“Shoutout to everyone who set their alarms very early in the morning to watch me compete. So thankful for all the support from the Solon Community.”