Biography:
Zoia Ovsii (Ukrainian: , born 30 August 1994) is a Ukrainian Paralympic athlete who has left an indelible mark on the world of para-athletics. Competing in F51-classification throwing events, Ovsii has consistently demonstrated her exceptional talent and determination, earning numerous accolades throughout her career.
Born in Ukraine on August 30, 1994, Ovsii faced a number of challenges from an early age. At the age of three, she was diagnosed with a spinal cord injury, which left her with significant physical impairments. Despite these difficulties, Ovsii never let her disability define her. Instead, she discovered a passion for sports that would ultimately pave the way for her extraordinary journey.
Ovsii’s athletic prowess first came to prominence at the 2016 Summer Paralympics held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Representing Ukraine, she captured the attention of the world as she won two medals. In the women’s club throw F51 event, Ovsii secured the silver medal, while also claiming the bronze in the women’s discus throw F52 event. These achievements served as a testament to her unwavering determination and unwavering commitment to excellence.
In 2018, Ovsii cemented her status as one of the world’s finest para-athletes at the World Para Athletics European Championships in Berlin, Germany. Not only did she win the gold medal in the women’s club throw F51 event, but she also set a new world record in the process. This remarkable feat solidified her as a force to be reckoned with in her sport.
Ovsii’s achievements continued to accumulate as she earned two gold medals at the World Para Athletics Championships. Her triumph in the women’s club throw F51 event at both the 2018 and 2019 editions of the championships showcased her exceptional skill and unyielding determination.
The pinnacle of Ovsii’s career came at the 2020 Summer Paralympics held in Tokyo, Japan. The world watched in awe as she claimed the gold medal in the women’s club throw F51 event. This remarkable achievement not only solidified her status as one of the world’s greatest para-athletes but also served as an inspiration to athletes around the globe.
Aside from her excellence in throwing events, Ovsii ventured into paracanoeing in 2014. Competing in the ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships in Moscow, Russia, she won the bronze medal in the women’s V–1 200m A event. Her ability to excel in multiple sports further showcases her versatility and determination to overcome any obstacle in her path.
Motivated by a desire to push boundaries and defy expectations, Ovsii continues to inspire and uplift others. Her unwavering dedication to her craft serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit.
Awards:
– Gold medal, Women’s Club Throw F51, 2020 Summer Paralympics
– Bronze medal, Women’s Discus Throw F53, 2020 Summer Paralympics
– Silver medal, Women’s Club Throw F51, World Para Athletics European Championships (2021)
– Silver medal, Women’s Discus Throw F53, World Para Athletics European Championships (2021)
– Gold medal, Women’s Club Throw F51, World Para Athletics Championships (2018, 2019)
– Gold medal, Women’s Club Throw F51, World Para Athletics European Championships (2018)
– Silver medal, Women’s Club Throw F51, 2016 Summer Paralympics
– Bronze medal, Women’s Discus Throw F52, 2016 Summer Paralympics
– Bronze medal, Women’s V–1 200m A, ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships (2014)