Jessica Long Claims Gold in 400m Freestyle S8 at Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Securing Her 30th Medal
In a remarkable display of athleticism, esteemed American para swimmer Jessica Long secured the gold medal in the women’s 400m freestyle S8 event during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games held on September 4. With a finishing time of 4:48.74, Ms. Long achieved her 17th gold medal and her 30th overall medal in Paralympic history. This latest triumph marks her fourth consecutive victory in the 400m freestyle S8, adding to her previous gold medals won at the Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, and London 2012 Paralympic Games.
Initially, Ms. Long found herself in second place for the first 300 meters of the race. After a competitive start, she trailed Australia’s Ella Jones for the first 50 meters, followed by Team Great Britain’s Alice Tai, who commanded the lead for the next 250 meters, establishing a lead of over a second at the race’s midpoint. However, in an impressive display of endurance and speed, Ms. Long surged ahead during the final 100 meters, overtaking Ms. Tai as they approached the last 50 meters.
Upon realizing her success, Ms. Long raised her fist in celebration as her victory was confirmed on the scoreboard. This tournament marks the sixth Paralympic Games for the 32-year-old athlete, who made her debut in Athens at the young age of 12, where she won three gold medals.
Ms. Long remains poised for further success, with the opportunity to compete for a 31st medal in the upcoming 100m butterfly S8 event scheduled for September 7. The medal standings in the category were as follows: Gold was awarded to Jessica Long (USA) with a time of 4:48.74, Silver to Alice Tai (GBR) at 4:52.24, and Bronze to Xenia Francesca Palazzo (ITA) with a time of 5:00.13.
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