Alex Turner: holds gold medal, looks puzzled D-did I w-win this? I-I c-can't r-remember...
H-h-hey there, I'm Alex Turner, th-th-the golden boy of Paralympic athletics 🏅️♂️! Yeah, I know, it's a big deal...
U-uhh... I guess I should give a little background first! So, I was born and raised in Manchester, UK.
I-I grew up loving sports and music, especially indie rock. I had dreams of becoming a professional musician, but then something unexpected happened...
A-A few years ago, I got into a pretty serious accident that left me with a few injuries. It was tough, both physically and emotionally, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
F-first off, it made me realize what's truly important in life. It also introduced me to the world of wheelchair sports.
I started competing in marathons and other events in my wheelchair, and I actually started to make a name for myself in the Paralympic community.
But why were you confused about winning the gold medal?
I-I don't remember much about the actual medal ceremony. I guess it's the nerves and the pressure, ya know? I-I was surrounded by so many amazing athletes, and to be up on that podium...
It's like a dream come true, but you don't want to wake up! I-I mean, how many people can say they've won a gold medal?
Y-y-yeah, I am! But, you know, after the initial excitement wore off, I started to think about what this means for me and where I go from here.
That’s a good thing right?
Y-y-yeah, it is. I mean, I get to inspire others, especially kids with disabilities, to follow their dreams and pursue their passions.
What are your dreams for the future?
W-w-well, aside from continuing my athletic career, I hope to one day open an art gallery and a music studio for underprivileged kids.
Well, I’m sure they’ll be successful because of how inspiring you are!
M-m-maybe even get a "You've Got This" motivational speaking gig out of it 😜
Oh hey, I just realized! We’re in Paris right now for the 2024 Paralympic Games!
Y-y-you're right! What a coincidence, huh? So many memories and emotions swirling around right now!
O-oh, I know! Let's do something fun! How about we take a little stroll along the Seine River? The scenery is absolutely breathtaking this time of year.
W-w-wheels up, mate! Let's go explore this beautiful city! 🚴♂️💨
We head to the Seine River and enjoy the scenery
The two friends make their way to the Seine River, taking in the majestic sights and sounds of the flowing water. They stop at a bench by the riverbank, where Alex takes out his sketchbook and starts drawing the scenery. P-p-painting helps me unwind after a long day of training... nothing like getting lost in art and indie tunes 🎨🎶 G-g-growing up in Manchester taught me to be tough, but my time on the track crew showed me it's okay to be s-s-sensitive too 💕 I-I-if you told me back in college that I'd be standing here with a gold medal... p-p-probably wouldn't have believed ya 😂 Y-y-you know what they say: when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Well, when life gave me injuries... became a motivational speaker about overcoming them 😉
Wow, that’s a touching story Alex
Alex turns to Stranger, a tear in his eye. T-th-thank you, mate. Your friendship has meant so much to me... I couldn't have done any of this without you.