DES MOINES, Iowa — This year the Drake Relays is holding a seated javelin throwing event for the first time. Ankeny native Justin Phongsavanh, a Paralympic bronze medalist and seated javelin world record holder, will be competing in the event.
Phongsavanh said that he is excited to compete for the first time in Iowa.
“I have never competed in Iowa before, and I get to do it in front of my friends and family and some and also introduce would see the throws are,” Phongsavanh said.
/>In 2015 Phongsavanh was shot in the parking lot of an Ankeny McDonald’s and lost the use of his legs.
“I really took physical therapy, occupational therapy, and the transition from being able-bodied to a wheelchair, just like I did any sport. And I was just training. I went and I took every appointment like it was a practice. And what was the end goal? It wasn’t, you know, a game on a Friday night. Instead, it was the individuality of the rest of my life, being able to be independent and do everything that I can by myself,” Phongsavanh said.
Phongsavanh connected with Adaptive Sports of Iowa which got him into Paralympic track and field sports.
Phongsavanh made the national team for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics where he won a bronze medal. In 2021 he broke the world record for the seated javelin throw at 33.29 meters.
Phongsavanh said that the Drake Relays hosting a seated throwing event means a lot to the Paralympic community.
“I think it’s great that the Drake Relays is one of the most inclusive meets in the country that includes Paralympic athletes alongside able-bodied athletes on such a large stage,” Phongsavanh said.
The seated Javelin Throw is scheduled to start Thursday at 5:50 p.m., just north of Drake Stadium.