A True Inspiration

All American Swim Supply recently had the chance to interview a motivational swimmer currently training to compete in the 2012 Paralympic Trials. 17-year-old Ryan Minks, who competes in swimming and wheel chair racing, says, "Pain is for the moment, and winning is forever." In August of 1992, Ryan was born with spina bifida, and his parents were told that he would never sit up on his own, crawl, or walk. But Ryan's determination has led him to beat the odds, and he now competes in track and field and swimming. Ryan says that his parents have been the most influential force in his life. "They both encourage me and have instilled in me that I can accomplish anything that I set my mind to. They are my support team."

As a competitive swimmer, Ryan practices about 5-6 hours a week with the Memphis Tigers at the University of Memphis. His favorite thing about being an athlete, he says, "are the competitions and the recognition for the hard work that you put into it." His most memorable moment is winning gold at the National Junior Disability Championships in the 50 breast and 200 free. Ryan's favorite event is the backstroke, and he would love to meet Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte, given the chance, "because he is a great competitor in backstroke events."

To learn more about Ryan's story and the events he competes in, visit Ryan's website. To help support Ryan and his efforts to compete in the 2012 Paralympic Trials, visit Wheelchair Sports, USA.

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