In the world of sports, certain athletes stand out not only for their skills but also for their incredible stories. One such athlete is Matt Stutzman, an armless Paralympic archer who has made a significant impact in the sport. As we look towards the Archery Paralympics 2024 schedule, Stutzman’s name is sure to draw attention, not just for his achievements but also for the path he has paved for others.
A Trailblazer in Paralympic Archery
Matt Stutzman, 41, from Fairfield, Iowa, has long been a prominent figure in the Paralympics, competing as the only armless archer for years. His journey in archery began in 2010 when he saw the sport on TV and decided it was his calling. Despite being born without arms, Stutzman was determined to learn how to shoot a bow using his legs. With no role models or examples to follow, he watched professional archers online and developed a technique that worked for him.
Matt Stutzman!!! He was spot on💯🔥. Loved his energy. Best of luck to him for the final✨#Paralympics2024#Archery pic.twitter.com/ilHLjodh7g
— Sambrudhi Sahoo (@SahooSambrudhi) September 1, 2024
Within just a month, he felt confident enough to compete, and less than two years later, he qualified for the 2012 Paralympics. Since then, Matthew Stutzman has become a four-time Paralympian, winning a silver medal and breaking a world record in 2015 for the farthest accurate archery shot with a compound bow, hitting a target from 310 yards. His accomplishments in the sport are even more remarkable considering that he regularly competes against non-disabled archers, using the strength of his legs to his advantage.
Matt Stutzman Inspiring the Next Generation of Armless Archers
Stutzman’s influence extends beyond his personal achievements. Over the years, he has inspired and mentored other armless individuals to take up archery. This year, at the Archery Paralympics 2024, three other armless archers are competing: Piotr Van Montagu of Belgium, Víctor Sardina Viveros of Mexico, and the only female armless archer, Sheetal Devi of India. Each of these athletes has a unique story, but they all share a common thread — they were inspired by Matt Stutzman.
For Piotr Van Montagu, seeing videos of Matthew Stutzman sparked his interest in archery. Despite being competitors, Stutzman has provided Van Montagu with advice on his technique, fostering a friendship based on mutual respect and admiration. Víctor Sardina Viveros, who began archery just two years ago, also credits Stutzman as his inspiration. Competing alongside Stutzman is a dream come true for these athletes, who have looked up to him as a role model.
Sheetal Devi, who nearly set a world para archery record at the 2024 Games, has also received guidance from Stutzman. His mentorship has helped shape the careers of these athletes, proving that his impact on the sport goes far beyond his own performances.
A Legacy Beyond the Paralympics
As the Archery Paralympics 2024 schedule unfolds, Stutzman remains focused on his legacy. He believes that the growing number of armless archers in the Paralympics is one of his greatest accomplishments. “For me, that is my gold medal,” he said. “It’s their job now to continue what I started.” While this year’s Paralympics may be his last due to ongoing hip issues, Stutzman’s influence will undoubtedly continue.
Stutzman has also set his sights on a new sport: drag racing. After years of shooting with his legs, which has taken a toll on his hips, he has found drag racing to be gentler on his body. He has already obtained his professional license and begun competing. Just as he pioneered the way for armless archers, Stutzman hopes to inspire others without arms to pursue drag racing and other activities that might seem impossible.
Continuing to Inspire
Throughout his career, Matthew Stutzman has used his platform to teach, inspire, and encourage others. Whether it’s archery, drag racing, or simply living life to the fullest, Stutzman’s message is clear: limitations are only in the mind. His journey from a jobless young man facing stigma to a world-record-holding Paralympian is a testament to the power of determination and resilience.
As the Archery Paralympics 2024 schedule draws nearer, all eyes will be on Matt Stutzman and the armless archers he has inspired. Regardless of the outcome, his legacy in both archery and beyond will continue to inspire generations to come.
Top Picks
