Warwick swimmer Zakary Sorensen not letting his disability get in the way of his 2028 Paralympic dreams

A Warwick swimmer isn’t letting his disability get in the way of his dreams as he prepares and trains to make his mark at the 2028 Paralympic Games. Read his inspiring journey.

Zakary Sorensen has been swimming for as long as he can remember, and has some big dreams to swim at the 2028 Paralympic Games.

Swimming is a relaxing pass time to stay cool in summer, but for one young Warwick swimmer, getting in the pool brings him one step closer to achieving his dreams.

Zakary Sorensen, 29, is a passionate swimmer who isn’t letting his disability get in the way of his dream of representing his country.

Through the Parastart program at the University of Queensland, Sorensen is able to get in the water and make a splash, training often to pursue his dream.

It’s a dream the size of an Olympic pool, with Sorensen, who has cerebral palsy, aiming to swim at the 2028 Paralympics.

Zakary Sorensen at the University of Queensland pool. (Photo: supplied)

“As a young kid, I did hydro every week up until end of year 7, when I got to high school it stopped, so I tried to find ways to continue (until) one evening when I was in the hydrotherapy pool and the pool staff asked me if I would like some lessons,” Sorensen said.

It’s as simple as the fact he is able to get in the pool and he loves it which is the reason Sorensen keeps swimming.

“Apart from the Paralympics (my biggest goal with the sport) is making any Australian team, even a development squad,” he said.

Zakary Sorensen carving up the pool. (Photo: supplied)

So far, Sorensen has hit some incredible personal goals with his swimming, with his independence in the water and getting his times down.

Travelling from Warwick to Brisbane to attend ParaSTART program monthly, Sorensen’s weekly preparation includes gym sessions twice a week and three swims a week

“I have been with them (UQ) for 12 months now, it’s incredible and it’s not just swimming, they have introduced me to frame running too,” Sorensen said.

And he’s making solid progress. Sorensen says he’s proud every single time he shaves down his swimming times and continues to train.

“Definitely, there is still a lot of time to cut down for me to get into states or nationals. Every time I improve my times, it’s a good feeling,” he said.

“Over the next four years, I will be aiming to move closer to the training facilities in Brisbane. I can then focus on working with my coaches to refine my training, diet and mental approach to help me swim as fast as possible.

“I love swimming because it helps me have freedom. The feeling of being in the water is what I really love.”

You can follow his journey on Facebook, and support his dream on GoFundMe.