Growing up in the 21st century can be a tough proposition for
any kid, regardless of race, family, or background. Throw in a
physical disability and chasing one’s dreams can be a formidable
challenge.
For 13 year-old Branden Walton, being visually impaired has only
served to fuel his passion for competition, whether on the soccer
field, basketball court, or track.
The Windsor Middle School eighth-grader has excelled in all
three sports for the past several years, despite an ability to see
only about half as well as most of his classmates.
Walton has been at his best running track and cross-country at
WMS, setting the school record in the 3K (1.8-miles) two years ago.
On the track, he’s among the top athletes in distance events,
including the 800 and 1600-meter races.
On July 12-17, he took his running prowess to the next level at
the International Blind Sports Association (IBSA) World Youth and
Student Championships held in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
He was one of about 300 visually impaired athletes participating
from 17 countries, competing in sports ranging from judo, track,
and goal-ball, a team sport designed specifically for blind and
visually impaired athletes.
“This international sporting event featured some of the world’s
top up and coming young athletic talent, as many of the
participants aspire to make the Paralympic Games in the future,”
said Executive Director Mark Lucas.
“Through sport, this wonderful event also provides all of the
nations the opportunity to foster greater cultural
understanding.”
Participating countries included Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada,
Chinese Taipei, Czech Republic, Germany, India, Ireland, Japan,
Mexico, Mongolia, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, the
United Kingdom, and the United States.
The IBSA World Youth and Student Championships grouped athletes
by age and degree of disability, housing them in a dorm-like
setting at a local college.
Walton, who was given the nickname “Bieber” because of the
sunglasses he wore during competition, turned in a sensational
performance competing in the junior B-3 class, winning gold medals
in both the 800 and 1500-meter races.
He also joined forces with older intermediate class athletes in
running a leg on the silver-medal winning 4 X 100 Relay team.
“When Branden wants to do something he works twice as hard has
most people to achieve his goal,” said Mike Walton, Branden’s
father. “The experience of living in a dorm and being part of ‘Team
USA’ was a real eye-opener for him.”
During the five days of competition, Walton forged friendships
with kids from around the world, including some from South Africa
and Germany.
Once home, he was quick to add them to his Facebook friends
list.
The talented eighth-grader doesn’t plan to slow down any time
soon, setting his sights on the upcoming fall cross-country season
and beyond.
“I enjoy running to stay in shape, but I’d like to eventually
qualify for the Paralympics in the future, he said.
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