BBC Wales have delved into the inspiring journey of Newport-born Paralympic swimmer Liz Johnson, in a recent episode of Legends of Welsh Sport. Liz’s remarkable career is a testament to resilience, dedication, and triumph.
Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at six months old. Liz’s mother, Bonnie, encouraged her to join a local swimming group for disabled swimmers at the age of three, to try and strengthen and relax her muscles. This early exposure ignited a passion for the sport, leading her to competitive swimming by the age of eight.
Liz’s talent quickly became evident. At just 14, she was selected to represent Team GB as an S6 swimmer. Her Paralympic debut came at the 2004 Athens Games, where she secured a silver medal in the SB6 100m breaststroke.
The subsequent years saw Liz’s performance reach new heights. She clinched gold in the 100 metre breaststroke at the 2006 IPC Swimming World Championships in Durban, South Africa. However, as the 2008 Beijing Paralympics approached, Liz faced personal challenges. Tragically, her mother Bonnie, passed away just days before Liz’s event in Beijing. Demonstrating extraordinary courage, Liz won the gold medal in the 100m breaststroke.
Liz continued to excel, securing a bronze medal at the London 2012 Paralympics and setting a new Paralympic record in the process. Beyond the pool, she was selected as the Paralympic Oath Taker.
After retiring from competitive swimming in 2016, Liz transitioned into roles as a broadcaster and advocate. She co-founded The Ability People, the UK’s first disability-led employment agency, aiming to bridge the disability employment gap and promote inclusivity in the workplace. In 2018 she was named one of the BBC’s 100 Women.
Liz’s story is not only one of athletic talent but also of inspiring change beyond the sporting world.
The episode is available to view on iPlayer here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0027hl3
