Episode 2 - The Path to Paris: Paralympic Dreams

In the second episode of this captivating Channel 4 documentary series, viewers will go on an extraordinary journey following some of Britain's most remarkable Paralympians as they strive for the ultimate prize: gold in Paris 2024. With exclusive access to their lives, training, and the intense preparation that goes into being the best in the world, the programme, supported by The National Lottery, offers an intimate look at the determination, resilience, and spirit of these elite athletes.

From the racetracks of Britain to the training camps in Turkey, the episode will follow Hannah Cockroft, Jonnie Peacock, Zak Skinner, Nathan Maguire and Funmi Oduwaiye on their journey to Paris 2024.

Born with a visual impairment, Zak's prowess as a long jumper is nothing short of inspirational. We follow Zak as he navigates his jumps, despite only seeing the board from two meters away. But when an injury threatens his participation in a national competition in Manchester, Zak's resilience is put to the ultimate test.

The power couple of wheelchair racing, seven-time Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft and her fiancé, Commonwealth champion Nathan Maguire, share their journey of balancing intense training with their upcoming wedding. Their path takes them to Kobe, Japan, for the World Championships, where Hannah continues her quest for gold, and Nathan battles to secure his place in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

The name synonymous with Paralympic success, Jonnie Peacock, faces perhaps his toughest challenge yet. After a disappointing bronze medal finish in Tokyo due to issues with his blade, Jonnie is determined to reclaim his status as the fastest man in Paralympic history. This episode delves into his mental and physical preparation as he aims for the top spot in Paris.

Just two years after suffering life-changing damage to her leg, Funmi is now on the verge of qualifying for the Paralympics in discus and shot put. As she juggles hospital appointments, new-found fame, and the rigors of elite sport, viewers will witness her extraordinary journey to Paris. But will an on-going back injury cost her a place in the British Paralympic team heading to the Games?

Viewers are not only treated to the personal stories of these athletes but also to the inner workings of their support teams. From coaches to physiotherapists, witnessing the high-performance environment, funded by National Lottery players, that propels these athletes to greatness. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mentality and physicality required to compete at the highest level, demonstrating that they are defined not by their disabilities but by their relentless pursuit of excellence.

Also featuring in the episode are Paralympic legends Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, Aled Davies, Danny Crates, and Stef Reid. Their insights and experiences provide invaluable commentary for understanding what it takes to succeed on the Paralympic stage.

Tune in to witness the making of champions.

Watch ‘Path to Paris: Paralympic Dreams’ on Channel 4 on Sunday 25 August at 4.55pm (repeated on Monday 26th at 10pm and Tuesday 27th at 12:10pm) and available after on Channel 4 view on demand.