In the Czech Republic’s Paralympic team for the upcoming Paralympics in Paris, 16-year-old swimmer David Kratochvil is a notable name. Originally an ice hockey player, Kratochvil lost his sight due to a severe illness a decade ago, prompting him to transition to swimming, a move that has proven successful. Last year, he set world records in 50 and 200 meters backstroke events and clinched his first gold medal at the para swimming world championships in Manchester, England, in the 400-meter freestyle race.
Recently named the best Czech Paralympic athlete for 2023, Kratochvil is gearing up for the Aug. 28-Sept. 8 Paralympic Games, fulfilling a long-held dream. Despite holding world records, he remains humble, aiming for a place in the final and a fifth- or sixth-place finish. His ultimate goal, however, is to secure a Paralympic medal, a dream he has harbored since the age of nine.
Kratochvil’s training routine is rigorous, with two pool sessions totaling four hours daily, interspersed with a gym workout. Additionally, he completes a 10-mile ride on a tandem bike each evening. Supported by his parents, who serve as his “tappers” during races to indicate when to turn or finish, Kratochvil appreciates their pivotal role in his success.
As Kratochvil prepares for the Paralympics, his town’s 25-meter pool serves as his training ground, with makeshift equipment fashioned by his father. Despite the challenges posed by the pool’s size and the closure of the nearest 50-meter pool, Kratochvil’s determination remains unwavering. His journey to swimming began after losing his sight due to cancer, proving that while his life may have changed, his passion for sports endures.
In addition to swimming, Kratochvil enjoys playing musical instruments and has a keen interest in various hobbies. Despite his youth, his gesture of withdrawing from the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021 to allow an older Czech swimmer to compete earned him recognition from the Czech Fair Play Committee. Looking ahead, Kratochvil remains focused on his Paralympic aspirations in Paris, embodying perseverance, dedication, and sportsmanship.
