Tom Hamer

Tom Hamer, a future Paralympic swimmer, was born on August 16, 1998, setting the stage for a remarkable career in competitive swimming. Despite facing challenges due to his disability, Hamer's determination and talent would lead him to achieve significant success in the world of Paralympic sports.

In March 2014, Tom Hamer made his debut at the international level by competing in the British Para-Swimming International Meet in Glasgow. This event marked the beginning of Hamer's successful career as a paralympic swimmer, highlighting his talent and determination. Competing against top athletes, Hamer's performance set the stage for future successes, earning him recognition in the para-swimming community.

Tom Hamer achieved a milestone in his swimming career by breaking the S14 200m freestyle world record at the 2014 IPC Swimming European Championships hosted in Eindhoven. His remarkable performance not only earned him a gold medal but also placed him among the top para swimmers of his time, further establishing his international reputation for excellence and determination.

Tom Hamer won a silver medal in the men's S14 200m freestyle on September 12, 2016, during the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics. This was his first appearance at a Paralympic Games and he delivered an impressive performance, highlighting his hard work and dedication. His success at the 2016 Paralympics was a testament to his status as one of the world's leading para swimmers.

During the 2018 Commonwealth Games held in Gold Coast, Australia, Tom Hamer won the gold medal in the men's S14 200m freestyle event. This victory was significant as it marked his first gold medal at a major international competition, further boosting his career and showcasing his prowess in the pool against a competitive field.

Tom Hamer competed at the 2018 World Para Swimming Allianz European Championships in Dublin, where he continued to establish himself as a formidable competitor in the S14 classification. His participation helped raise awareness and set new benchmarks in the sport, inspiring many young athletes with disabilities to pursue competitive swimming.

At the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships in London, Tom Hamer excelled by achieving podium finishes, ensuring his legacy as an elite para swimmer. His performances reinforced his status as a top athlete in his classification and continued to inspire the next generation of swimmers worldwide.

Tom Hamer once again claimed a silver medal in the men's S14 200m freestyle event at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This achievement solidified his reputation as one of the best in his field, demonstrating consistency and high-performing talent on the international stage.

Tom Hamer announced his retirement from competitive swimming on October 20, 2022. This decision came after a successful career where he made significant contributions to the sport. Hamer left behind a legacy of achievements and set an example for aspiring para swimmers, showcasing determination, resilience, and excellence.

Following his retirement, Tom Hamer became an advocate for disability sports, focusing on raising awareness and supporting young athletes with disabilities. His efforts aim to improve accessibility and opportunities in sports, continuing his impact beyond swimming by promoting change and equality in the sports community.