Self-conquering and staying authentic to one's abilities is the substantial hurdle, according to TOH WEI SOONG [Athlete Stories].

Toh Wei Soong: A Swimmer with an Iron Will

Toh Wei Soong, a 23-year-old swimmer from Singapore, has been chosen as one of 12 athletes in Asia to champion Toyota's Start Your Impossible initiative. This honour comes as no surprise, given Toh's impressive track record in competitive swimming.

Diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a chronic condition that restricts the use of his legs, when he was just two years old, Toh's journey in the world of swimming has been anything but easy. However, he has faced every challenge with determination and resilience, crediting his parents for their unwavering support and his upcoming education at the National University of Singapore.

Toh's love for swimming began when he was 13 years old, and he has since become a force to be reckoned with in the pool. He has won an impressive tally of medals, including a bronze at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and two golds in the 2018 Asian Para Games.

Toh's motivation to continue swimming comes from the excitement of the racing and the act of competition. He believes that "if you are willing to beat someone, you must be willing to lose to someone. Only with opponents can you make yourself stronger."

Toh credits his coach, Ang Peng Siong, for being his hero and role model. He also thanks his teammates for their support, stating that they always have his back in "this crazy sport." His teammates, in turn, credit Toh for motivating them to improve.

Looking ahead, Toh's long-term goal is to compete at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. He acknowledges that competition at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games will be fierce, but he looks forward to the challenge. His ultimate ambition is to win a gold medal at the Games.

In addition to his athletic pursuits, Toh is also a motivational speaker in a joint school outreach program aimed at encouraging youths, especially those with disabilities, to pursue their sporting dreams. He will be championing "Equality of Opportunity" in partnership with Toyota, working with the Singapore Disability Sports Council.

Toh's next challenge is the World Para Swimming Championships in Kuching, Malaysia, in July 2019. This event promises to be a test of his skills and a stepping stone towards his ultimate goal of competing at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Toh finds enjoyment in the freedom he experiences while swimming underwater. He credits his coach, his teammates, and his parents for helping him to overcome obstacles and achieve his dreams. With his unyielding spirit and determination, there is no doubt that Toh Wei Soong will continue to make waves in the world of competitive swimming.