A Calss Act – Jack O’Connor

Fifth year student Jack O’Connor featured in the pages of Spoke Out magazine from the Irish Wheelchair Association on how Para Athletics has changed his life. Jack wrote the article himself and with his permission we reproduce it here. (At the end of this reproduction, there is a link to view the article on the I.W.A. website. Well done Jack, the whole school community is behind you and proud of you.)

Jack O’Connor is an IWA member who was born with cerebral palsy. His journey into Para Sport and Para Athletics began from just the age of five when he joined Father Murphy’s Athletic Club in Athboy, Co. Meath. 

“From a young age, my family and I looked for ways to improve my coordination. I started Para Athletics when I was just five-years-old with Father Murphy’s Athletics Club because I struggled to throw a ball. Para Athletics gave me the opportunity to build those skills in a fun and structured way. That’s also where I met my coach Paddy Hanley, who’s been with me since day one. His support and belief in me have played a massive role in my journey.” 

After nine years of taking part in Athletics (with Father Murphy’s Club), Jack was introduced to IWA-Sport and from there, began to take part in Para Athletics. “When I was 14, I started competing in Para Athletics. It was thanks to Sarah and Suzanne Ledwithgetting in touch with the Irish Wheelchair Association that I got the chance to take part in competitions. Their support, along with the encouragement of my coach, helped push me to the next level—and I haven’t looked back since!”  

“I now compete in discus, javelin, and shot put. I train four times a week, always looking to improve. I love the challenge of these events—the mix of strength, skill, and mental focus. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of landing a good throw after all the effort you’ve put in.” 

“But Iwasn’t always this good at athletics—it’s taken a lot of hard work, trial and error, and consistency to get here. There were plenty of times thingsdidn’t go to plan, but I kept showing up, kept learning, and kept pushing forward.That’s what made the biggest difference.”  

Competing in Para Athletics has presented some special moments for Jack.  “One of my proudest achievements came in 2023 when I competed in the Czech Open and brought home a bronze medal. I’ve also travelled to Coventry twice, where I competed against athletes from Wales and Scotland – and came home with three gold medals.Moments like those remind me why I love this sport and keep me aiming higher.”  

Collecting medals and travelling is one thing but he also reflects on how competing in Para Athletics has benefited his day-to-day life.“Para Athletics has changed my life. It’s helped me grow in confidence, gain independence and stay focussed on my goals. It’s given me the tools to face challenges head-on and the mindset to keep pushing no matter what. More than that, it’s connected me with an incredible community of athletes and coaches who inspire and support each other.” 

When not training for Para Athletics, playing Wheelchair Basketball with North–East Thunders Club or in school, Jack works on the family farm. He shares how he’s adapted to farm-life with a physical disability. “Outside of Para Athletics, I live a busy life on the farm. I’ve got my tractor licence and even built my own hand controls so I can drive it myself. I lift myself into the tractor and take on the work like anyone else – it’s physical, it’s tough, and I love it. Farming keeps me grounded and strong, both physically and mentally.” 

“The skillsI’ve developed through Para Sport – like resilience, problem-solving, and discipline help me every day, whetherI’m training, competing, or working on the farm.They’ve shaped how I approach life and given me a sense of pride in everything I do.”  

The 2025 Para Athletics season began at the end of April with the Leinster Games in SETU Carlow. What are O’Connor ‘s goals over the coming months? 

“This season, my goal is to hit new personal bests and qualify for more international events. But my bigger dream is to represent Ireland at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. That’s what I’m working toward with every training session – step by step, throw by throw.”  

He encourages others to get involved in Para Athletics. “To any parents with a child, or to any young person with a physical disability thinking about Para Athletics—I’d say go for it. Whether you’re starting to build coordination or chasing big dreams like the Paralympics, Para Sport has so much to offer. It will give you confidence, strength, and a sense of purpose. Taking that first step could change your life, just like it did mine.” 

“And always remember, itdoesn’t matter what your disability is, you can do anything in Para Athletics.There’s such a wide range of disciplines in Para Sport thatthere’s something for everyone. You just have to give yourself the chance.”  

To see the article on the IWA website, click below 

Spotlight on Jack O’Connor – SpokeOut Magazine