Move United – the IWAS member in the US– named the delegation as the entry by name process opened for the Games for all countries.

More information can be found here. Entries close on 28 September.

The youngest athlete from the USA is 13 years of age whilst the oldest will be 39. They will be going for gold in powerlifting, swimming and athletics, the latter of which will include frame running and wheelchair slalom.

The majority of the delegation will be competing in track and field. Those athletes are Michael Anwar, Adaylia Borgmeier, Ben Brandt, Justin Caine, Catherine “Annie” Carey, Lauren Fields, Elizabeth Floch, Benjamin Foos, Beth Grauer, Ann “Sayers” Grooms, Madison Hahs, Aubrey Headon, Samantha Heyison, Emma Jundt, Lucas Jundt, Danielle Kanas, Emily Lopez, Lindi Marcusen, Grant Pierce, Janie Richardson, Hope Santiago, Derik Smith, Austin Spalla, Chance Wells, and Samuel Winter.

The group also includes para powerlifters Brett Forbes and Joshua Jundt and swimmers Ryan Eidelman, Ava McEntire, and Emilylynn Pfankuch.

In order to be considered to compete, athletes had to apply and meet certain criteria, including having at least two or more years of competition experience at the national level. The US delegation also includes a number of coaches, medical staff, and other support personnel.

“This competition provides emerging athletes the opportunity to compete on an international level,” said Move United Competition Manager Jessica Cloy, a four-time Paralympian and seven-time Paralympic medallist who is serving as the delegation leader. “It has served as a stepping stone to the Paralympic Games and other elite competitions for many athletes in the past.”

Around 500 athletes are expected to descend on the Complexo Desportivo Vila Real de Santo Antonio. This edition will be extra special as it comes in the year that IWAS celebrates 70 years at the forefront of growing Para sports.

Athletics, cerebral palsy football, powerlifting and swimming will form an exciting programme which for some athletes will form part of their road to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

All four sports will be recognised by their relevant International Federation and classification has been confirmed for athletics, powerlifting and swimming.

By Move United and IWAS