Dan Powell, from Halewood, has won a Silver medal in Judo at this year’s Paralympic Games in Paris.
The 33-year-old made his debut at London 2012. He won a Silver medal at the 2023 International Blind Sports Federation Judo Grand Prix in Japan which qualified him to represent Great Britain in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.
Dan had recently taken up rowing, but the Judo classification changed to include separate divisions for blind and visually-impaired fighters in Paris, so Dan made the decision to concentrate his efforts on Judo once again.
Dan said: “My performance in Paris confirms it was the right decision to come back to Judo. I love judo and competing and seeing my little boy Edward watching me was amazing.”
Dan got his inspiration from his dad Terry, who won Bronze medals in Judo at Seoul and Atlanta games in 1988 and 1996 respectively.
Dan added: “It was difficult physically in the final, having injured my rib in the semi-finals.
“I’m delighted with my win and adding another medal for the Powell household.”
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, said: “Congratulations Dan! Representing your country at the highest level and coming home with a Silver medal is a fantastic achievement. Well done.”