Hunter Woodhall went viral for his celebration with his wife Tara Davis-Woodhall at the Paris Olympics and he is now looking for his own moment of glory at the Paralympics Games.
Hunter Woodhall, celebrated as one of Team USA’s brightest stars, is poised to make his mark at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Following the viral moment of jubilation with his wife, Tara Davis-Woodhall, after her Olympic gold medal win in high jump, Hunter is gearing up for his own chance at glory.
Woodhall, a double-amputee sprinter and three-time Paralympic medallist, captured hearts around the world when he passionately cheered for his wife during the Summer Games in Paris.
His enthusiastic support, highlighted by a heartfelt “Come on baby” from the stands, became a social media sensation.
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The couple's touching celebration, featuring Hunter in a “Team Tara” shirt, showcased their unbreakable bond and mutual support.
Hunter Woodhall is set to compete in the 100-metre preliminary race on September 1 and the 400-metre race on September 6.
With his impressive track record from previous Paralympic Games, including a silver medal in the 200 meters and a bronze in the 400 meters at Rio 2016, he is highly anticipated to deliver a standout performance.
Speaking to NBC News, Woodhall expressed his optimism and preparation: “I’m feeling really good, mentally and physically. Watching Tara in Paris was a really great visualization. So I’m prepared,” he said.
How did Hunter Woodhall lose his legs?
Hunter Woodhall was born with fibular hemimelia, a congenital condition that resulted in the absence of fibulas and malformation of the lower legs. He had both legs amputated below the knee when he was just 11 months old. Despite this early challenge, his spirit remained uncrushed.
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Early achievements and path to Paralympics stardom
Hunter Woodhall’s path to athletic prominence began with his remarkable performance at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, where he earned silver in the 200 meters and bronze in the 400 meters.
His achievements were further solidified by his ground-breaking achievement of becoming the first double amputee to receive a Division I track and field scholarship at the University of Arkansas.
Hunter's career continued to flourish, with additional medals from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and numerous accolades in the sport. His success is not only a personal victory but also a beacon of inspiration for athletes with disabilities.
The power couple
The bond between Hunter and Tara Davis-Woodhall extends beyond their athletic prowess.
They first met in 2017 at the Simplot Games in Idaho, where Tara approached Hunter for a hug, sparking a connection that quickly grew into a deep relationship.
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They began dating in July 2017, and their shared passion for athletics and mutual support has been evident in their personal and professional lives.
Tara’s recent Olympic triumph in the Women’s Long Jump was a monumental moment for both.
Her victory, coupled with Hunter’s ardent support, highlighted their unique and supportive partnership. Tara’s win, which marked her first Olympic medal after a sixth-place finish in Tokyo 2021, was celebrated by Hunter’s exuberant reaction and heartfelt declaration.
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Advocacy and legacy
Beyond their individual successes, Hunter and Tara Woodhall actively promote the inclusion and visibility of disabled athletes in sports. Their advocacy and achievements serve as powerful reminders of the potential within every individual, regardless of physical challenges.
The Paris Paralympics will undoubtedly be another chapter in the inspiring story of Hunter Woodhall, a true testament to the power of perseverance and love.