One WPI student did more than just dream. He was there in Atlanta, not to watch, but to compete. Two weeks after the flame was extinguished at the Centennial Olympic Games, the light returned to Atlanta for the beginning of the Paralympics. The Paralympics was the vision of an English neurosurgeon, Sir Ludwig Guttman, who set up the International Wheel Chair Games to coincide with the 1948 London Olympics. The Games did not officially begin until 36 years ago in Rome. This year marked the 10th Paralympiad.
Jason Wening is a BK amputee. For those of you unfamiliar with this term, it means he has his legs amputated below his knees. But this has never stopped him from realizing his dreams of swimming. In fact, he is so good at it that he owns a world record in the 400-meter freestyle, which he bettered in Atlanta. This was his second time competing for the US National Disabled Swim Team at the Paralympics. He now owns two gold medals: one is from the Games in Barcelona and one is from Atlanta. He also is a member and captain of the WPI swimming team led by coach Whit Griffith and is the coxswain of the Women's Varsity Crew team.
On behalf of his great accomplishments, there will be a reception for Jason today at 4:30 P.M.. at Higgins House. The entire WPI community is invited to attend. There will be presentations made by President Parrish, Coach Griffith, and others will be called upon to make remarks and presentations.
In our next issue of Newspeak we will highlight an interview with Jason and try to find out what it's like to compete for your country and have a gold medal placed around your neck.