National swimmer USP student Toh Wei Soong (Philosophy, Politics and Economics + USP, Class of 2023) represented Singapore for three events at this year's Tokyo Paralympics Games, held from 24 August to 5 September 2021. He finished fourth place in the men's 50m butterfly S7, and seventh place in both the 400m freestyle S7 and 50m freestyle S7. Despite competing in the Paralympics for the first time, Wei Soong made the finals in all events and even broke his own personal records, setting two new national records – what an amazing feat!

In response to our email, Wei Soong expressed, “Competing at the Paralympic Games has been a dream of mine since 2013. It has been a long journey since, and it was never easy to balance both my academics and my sports; however, I am grateful for the life I have lived so far and the opportunities afforded to me, despite the difficulties. I am looking forward to continuing my sport and to represent the country in the next few years. I am especially excited about the upcoming 2024 Games in Paris, which should be a good show then. For now, I am happy to rest a bit and tend to my studies, and keep my eyes forward to whatever comes next, with hopes high and in good spirits.”

Let’s continue to cheer him on for his next Paralympics. Heartiest congratulations, Wei Soong! You have shown such commendable determination and grit in your pursuit for excellence – of which, USP is incredibly proud.