Paralympics star Josia Topf: This is how he fights despite all the hurdles!

Paralympics star Josia Topf: This is how he fights despite all the hurdles!

What's new from the shimmering talents? Today we want to introduce a very special athlete from Erlangen: Josia Topf. Despite his physical challenges, he inspires young and old with his sporting spirit and his life motto “It doesn't work, it doesn't exist”. Born with dysmelia, TAR syndrome and aplasia of both knee joints, Josia not only brings impressive performances in the water, but also an infectious joy of life.

With his short arms and stiff legs of different lengths, he has managed to fight his way to the top in swimming. Josia started swimming at the age of five and was able to show what he was capable of in competitions at the age of nine. He has been fighting for the top spot in the world since 2021 and has qualified for the finals in all distances at the Paralympic Games in Tokyo 2021. He has also had considerable success in recent years: in 2023 he set five world records that shook up international swimming.

Successes that inspire

At the Paralympic Summer Games in Paris in 2024, Josia was able to shine in his flagship discipline. He was awarded gold, silver and bronze, further increasing his popularity. He also came second in the election of the Para Athletes of the Year 2024 in Bonn - and that is celebrated properly! The 2022 World Para Swimming Championships brought him silver in the 150m individual medley and bronze in the 100m freestyle, proving his talent.

Josia, who swims for SSG81 Erlangen and is widely known in his swimming pool, says that he often needs help in everyday life - be it putting on his swimming goggles or a swimming cap. He is also often stared at and sometimes receives incredulous looks, especially from children. Nevertheless, the ambitious swimmer does not let himself be deterred from his positive attitude.

Insights into his life

On July 4, 2024, Josia will speak live about his remarkable life in the “Fränkischer Talk” podcast. The event takes place at 6:30 p.m. in Bamberg and doors open at 5:45 p.m. If you would like to find out more about their stories and challenges, you can get tickets for 22.90 euros - they are available now!

Dealing with sport and disability runs like a common thread through Josia's life. The Paralympic Games are an important part of this because, according to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) It recognizes the fastest performances in athletics events that show athletes that challenges can be overcome with determination and mentality.

Overall, Josia Topf's life story is an impressive example of perseverance, ambition and joy of life. He inspires not only with his successes, but also with his optimism and ability to do his best despite all odds.