British Paralympian John McFall Breaks New Ground in Sports and Space

A Pioneer in Sport and Space

British Paralympian John McFall, known for his achievements on the track, is making history again—this time in space. McFall has become the first person with a physical disability to be cleared for potential space missions by the European Space Agency (ESA). The 43-year-old, who won a bronze medal in the 100 metres at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, is in France this week. His mission: to support Team GB at the Paris Games and demonstrate that elite athletes can continue to push through seemingly insurmountable barriers.

Reflecting on the role of sport in his journey, McFall stated, “Sport has been a hugely powerful vehicle for making people appreciate what anyone is capable of. Now that we have Paralympic sport on the radar much more, it’s a really powerful platform to see what people with physical disabilities are capable of.”

Overcoming Adversity Through Sport

McFall’s journey to becoming a Paralympic athlete began after a life-changing accident at the age of 19. While visiting Thailand, a motorcycle accident led to the amputation of his right leg above the knee, ending his aspirations of a military career. The early days post-accident were challenging, marked by frustration and a deep need for something to channel his energy into. For McFall, sport became that outlet.

“I went through some dark times during those early days, but largely frustration,” he shared. “Challenging myself physically, I got reward from that, and really that was a very powerful vehicle for my rehabilitation.”

Over eight years, McFall transformed this challenge into triumph, eventually competing in the Beijing Paralympics. His experience taught him valuable lessons about resilience and determination. “If I put the effort in, I can achieve whatever I want,” McFall reflected.

The Next Frontier: Space

Now, John McFall is embarking on a new adventure—space exploration. Three years ago, he came across an advertisement seeking would-be astronauts, including someone to participate in a European study. The study aimed to explore whether a person with a physical disability could become a full crew member on the International Space Station (ISS).

The prospect of becoming an astronaut excited McFall, both personally and from a sociological standpoint. “It was very, very interesting what the European Space Agency were proposing to do and to challenge,” he said.

Recently, McFall passed rigorous testing by the ESA, which evaluated his ability to perform emergency procedures and move in microgravity. Studies also examined how microgravity might affect his prosthesis, considering factors like bone density and fluid shifts in the body. While he hasn’t been guaranteed a flight yet, ESA’s July announcement confirmed that sending an astronaut with a physical disability into space is technically feasible.

McFall hopes his achievements will inspire others, especially the 4,000 athletes competing in the Paralympics this week. His message to those facing life-altering circumstances is clear: “Find something that you are passionate about… that’s what’s going to give you the reward.”

Team GB’s Chances in Paris

As for Team GB’s prospects at the Paris Paralympics, McFall is optimistic. “GB have always been a very strong nation in the Paralympics,” he said. “Top three, top five would always be tremendous. I’m very much looking forward to seeing what happens, and I’ll be there.”