Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Youtube
5 Facts About... Jason Smyth
The lowdown on Ireland's multiple Paralympic and world champion ahead of London 2017. 23 Jun 2017
Jason Smyth of Ireland celebrates after winning the Men's 100m - T13 Final at the Olympic Stadium on Day 2 of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games on September 9, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Dubbed ‘the fastest Paralympian on the planet’, Ireland’s multiple world and Paralympic champion Jason Smyth lines up at July’s World Para Athletics Championships in the 100m and 200m T13 for visually impaired athletes. Here’s what you need to know.
Five Facts About Jason Smyth
1) Smyth took up athletics age 16 at the Derry City Track Club in Northern Ireland after his school teacher spotted his potential and suggested he give it a go.
2) He was diagnosed with Stargardt's disease at age eight; the condition causes progressive vision loss.
3) Smyth is the world record holder in both the 100m (10.46) and 200m T13 (21.05) – times he set when he won double gold at London 2012.
4) In 2009 he received an honorary doctorate from Queen’s University Belfast in Northern Ireland.
5) The 29-year-old is unbeaten at major championships and has five Paralympic, five world and two European titles to his name.
