The countdown to the 2024 Paralympics in Paris is well underway, and excitement is building as athletes from around the world prepare to showcase their extraordinary talents on the biggest stage. Among the 215 athletes representing Great Britain and Northern Ireland, a selection of stars is poised to capture the hearts of fans and possibly secure their place in Paralympic history. With competitions in 19 of the 22 sports featured, the British team is expected to display a remarkable array of skill and determination. In this article, we highlight 6 Team GB stars to watch who are set to make a significant impact at the 2024 Paralympics. Each athlete brings a unique story, a wealth of experience, and a fierce desire to achieve greatness. Whether they are defending champions or debutants, these athletes are ready to make their mark.
1. Claire Taggart (Boccia)

Claire Taggart is not just any boccia player; she is a trailblazer. As the first boccia athlete from Northern Ireland to represent Great Britain at the Paralympic Games, Taggart’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. She made her debut at the Rio 2016 Paralympics and has continued to excel in her sport ever since. Having transitioned from wheelchair rugby to boccia at the age of 16, Taggart has dedicated herself to mastering this precision sport. Her hard work paid off when she clinched a world title at the 2022 World Championships, giving her a considerable boost of confidence heading into Paris 2024. Competing in the women’s individual BC2 and mixed team BC1/BC2 events, Taggart is not just participating; she is a formidable contender for a medal. Fans of boccia will want to keep a close eye on her performance, as she aims to add Paralympic glory to her impressive resume.
2. Thomas Young (Para Athletics)

Thomas Young is a name that resonates with triumph in the world of Para athletics. After storming to victory in the men’s 100m T38 race during his Paralympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, the 24-year-old sprinter has set his sights on defending his title in Paris. Young’s impressive form continued into 2024, with a second-place finish at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, showcasing his readiness for the challenges that lie ahead. He embraces the philosophy that everyone has the potential to excel in their own way, stating, “I live by the quote that everyone is born a champion – it’s just about finding out what you are a champion at.” With his determination and skill, Young is a strong contender for gold once again, and fans can expect to see him electrifying the track in Paris.
3. Rachel Choong (Para Badminton)

Rachel Choong is a powerhouse in the world of Para badminton, and her journey to the Paralympics has been an emotional one. Currently ranked as the world number one and boasting an impressive collection of ten world titles and nine European titles, Choong is primed to make her Paralympic debut at the upcoming Games. Her SH6 category is finally included in the program, allowing her the opportunity that eluded her at Tokyo 2020. Missing out on the previous Games was a significant setback for Choong, but her resilience led her to continue striving for excellence. “Missing out on Tokyo was devastating… to be selected is a dream come true,” she shared. She is set to compete in the women’s singles and the mixed doubles alongside fellow Briton Jack Shephard. Expect Choong to dazzle audiences in Paris as she endeavors to claim Paralympic glory.
4. Matt Bush (Para Taekwondo)

Matt Bush’s journey in Para taekwondo has been filled with both triumph and adversity. Taking up the sport in 2017, he quickly made a name for himself by becoming the first British man to win a world title just two years later. However, a setback in the form of an ACL injury prevented him from competing at the Tokyo 2020 Games, leaving his burning desire for Paralympic success unfulfilled. Paris 2024 will mark Bush’s long-awaited Paralympic debut, and he is determined to make an unforgettable impression in the K44 +80kg category. His experience and tenacity make him a serious contender for a medal. Given his prior accolades and passion for the sport, Matt Bush is an athlete to watch, as he aims to turn his dreams into reality.
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5. Samantha Kinghorn (Para Athletics)

Samantha Kinghorn is no stranger to success in Para athletics. With a breakthrough performance in 2014 where she won three gold medals at the European Championships, Kinghorn solidified her status as a leading contender in the sport. After making her Paralympic debut at Rio 2016, she achieved her first podium at the Tokyo 2020 Games by securing a silver medal in the 400m T53 and a bronze in the 100m T53. In Paris, Kinghorn is set to compete in four events: the 100m, 400m, and 800m in the T53 category, along with the 1500m in the T54 category. Her competitive spirit and dedication to her sport are palpable, and there’s no doubt that she will fight for every inch on the track. Fans are eagerly anticipating her performance, hoping she can repeat or improve upon her successes from previous Games.
6. William Ellard (Para Swimming)

At just 18 years old, William Ellard is poised to make waves in the Para swimming competition at the 2024 Paralympics. Following a standout 2023 season, where he took silver in the men’s 200m freestyle S14 at the World Championships, Ellard has emerged as a rising star in the sport. His accomplishments also include securing gold in the 100m butterfly S14 and the 200m freestyle S14 at the European Championships earlier this year. Paris 2024 will mark Ellard’s Paralympic debut, and he has a unique opportunity to shine on the world stage. With a fantastic track record and a bundle of talent, Ellard is set to compete in multiple events, including the 100m backstroke and the 200m individual medley. His youthful energy and determination are set to make him a fan favorite as he seeks to establish himself among the top competitors.
Conclusion
The 2024 Paralympics in Paris promise to be an extraordinary showcase of athleticism, perseverance, and inspiration. The athletes representing Team GB are not only skilled competitors; they embody the spirit of the Paralympic movement. From Claire Taggart’s trailblazing path in boccia to William Ellard’s promising debut in Para swimming, these six athletes are exemplars of dedication and resilience. As the Games approach, fans from around the world will rally behind their heroes, celebrating their journeys and achievements both in and out of competition. Watching these remarkable athletes in action is bound to be an emotional and exhilarating experience, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. As Team GB takes the stage in Paris, be sure to keep a close eye on these stars as they strive for glory and write their names in the history books of the Paralympics.