 |
|
Marlon Shirley – Paralympian – US amputee sprinter
© EMPICS Sports Photo Agency |
|
When 26-year-old, medal-winning athlete Marlon Shirley was abandoned by his mother as a three-year-old toddler, his future looked bleak. He had to survive by living with other children on the streets of Las Vegas until he was taken on by the foster care system and then he suffered two horrific accidents, but, against all odds, he went on to international sporting success.
Just as Marlon's life was beginning to turn around in the foster care system, he was again struck down by a personal disaster at the age of five. He was involved in a lawn-mower accident and lost his left foot.
Marlon refused to be held back, however, and continued his enthusiasm for sport. Tragically, within just a few years he was to suffer yet another injury, this time during a high-school football game, which led to the amputation of the lower section of the same leg.
Despite these amputations, Marlon holds the world record in the 100-metres and he is the only amputee to break the 11-second barrier in that race.
The Athens 2004 Paralympic Games saw him win a gold (men's 100m T44) and a bronze medal (men's long jump) to add to his other numerous medals.
Top of page
|
|
|
