Mallory Weggemann Won Gold At Paralympics

Eagen, Minn. native Mallory Weggemann won her first career gold medal at the Paralympics in London on Sunday. Competing in the women's 50-meter freestyle, Weggemann set a meet and American record by finishing the race in 31.13 seconds. Just behind her in silver and bronze position were Maddison Elliot of Australia (31.44 seconds) and Jiang Shengan of China (31.55).

After the event, Weggemann expressed her joy at finally winning a medal.

"I've been dreaming of being on that podium and hearing the anthem for 4 1/2 years," she said. "I didn't expect it but I wanted it.

"It was a tough competition, I knew I had a tough race but I gave it my all and that was enough."

(via the Minnesota Star Tribune)

Former Edina, Minn. resident Paul Nitz won bronze in the men's 100-meter dash. Nitz is a three-time Paralympics gold medalist. Jon Rydberg of Oakdale, Minn. will not medal in wheelchair tennis after falling in singles and doubles competition.

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