Newson Claims First Paralympic Silver Amid Tension

Zoe Newson was watched on by her son as she claimed her first Paralympic silver medal at Paris 2024.

The 32-year-old Para powerlifter, who hails from Colchester and trains at Loughborough University, celebrated a remarkable achievement in the women’s -45kg category at the Porte de la Chapelle Arena. After earning bronze medals at both London 2012 and Rio 2016, she returned to the podium and upgraded her accolade in a spectacular fashion.

Her journey to silver was not without its moments of tension. Newson faced a nerve-wracking wait to confirm her place on the podium after successfully contesting a judging decision on her third lift, which had initially been ruled a no lift. Reflecting on the moment, she exclaimed, “I don’t really know how I’m feeling. Good, happy, emotional, a bit of everything.”

A Dramatic Showdown on the World Stage

Newson, the first British athlete to compete in the Para powerlifting event on day seven of the Games, kicked off her performance with two solid lifts of 102kg and 104kg, placing her firmly in second position as the competition neared its climax. Her final lift of 109kg was critical; after a review, it enabled her to leapfrog Turkey’s Nazmiye Muratli, securing her silver medal.

The battle for gold was fierce, with Lingling Guo of China dominating the competition. Guo’s lifts were consistently heavier than those of her rivals, culminating in an extra attempt to break the world record—a feat she achieved with an impressive lift of 123kg. Such performances remind us of the extraordinary talent on display at the Paralympic Games, where every weight matters and every lift can be life-changing.

In her previous Olympic outing in Tokyo, Newson faced disappointment, failing to medal after a challenging competition. Circumstances transformed in Paris, however, as she rode the wave of supportive cheers from the crowd. “It was very different to Tokyo, but it was good,” she remarked. “Once I get my first or second, I’m alright as my nerves get a lot calmer. The first one, I just get on the bench and don’t do anything. By my second or third, I’m waving to the crowd.”

Emotional Moments and Personal Triumphs

The emotional undercurrents of her performance were palpable, particularly as she spotted her son and fiancé in the crowd. “We heard the crowd start cheering. Then we saw it on the screen and lost it,” she recalled, her voice tinged with joy. This relatable blend of nerves and exhilaration is something every athlete strives to overcome, revealing the fine line between pressure and performance.

Throughout the competition, the atmosphere at the Porte de la Chapelle Arena buzzed with excitement as athletes pushed the limits of their strength and resilience. Fans were treated to a spectacle that exemplifies the essence of the Paralympic spirit—determination and inclusion shining through. With Team GB’s athletes showcasing grit and outstanding skill, each moment felt like a powerful testament to their journeys.

• Performance Overview:
  • First lift: 102kg
  • Second lift: 104kg
  • Final lift: 109kg (originally a no lift)
  • Final position: Silver medalist in the -45kg category
• Medal History:
  • London 2012: Bronze
  • Rio 2016: Bronze
  • Paris 2024: Silver

As Newson relishes this remarkable achievement, it stands not only as a personal victory but a source of inspiration for many. Her journey embodies the spirit of resilience that characterises the Paralympic movement, where athletes redefine their limits with unparalleled determination.

Will this silver medal in Paris act as a springboard for Newson’s future aspirations, or perhaps open the door for new records to be shattered as she continues to evolve as an athlete? As the journey unfolds, spectators and supporters alike will rally behind her, eager to witness the next chapter in her inspiring story.

Amidst the thrill of competition and the backdrop of the stunning Parisian landscape, the legacy of Zoe Newson is yet again etched into the annals of Paralympic history. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the joy of personal triumph, and the indomitable spirit that permeates the Paralympic Games.