Allysa Seely

Allysa Seely is recognized as one of the most accomplished paratriathletes in adaptive sports. Seely won the first triathlon gold medal in Paralympic history, leading the sport's debut in Rio. She became the first woman to win back-to-back Paralympic gold medals in triathlon, defending her title at the Tokyo Games. Seely is the only female triathlete to win two gold medals at either the Paralympics or the Olympics. Her achievements include four World Paratriathlon Champion titles and 17 ITU World Paratriathlon Event gold medals.

Seely began her triathlon career while in college, joining the Arizona State University collegiate club triathlon team and quickly rising to national prominence. In 2010, she was diagnosed with Chiari II malformation, basilar invagination, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, conditions affecting her brain, spine, and connective tissues. Following her first brain surgery, Seely underwent a below-the-knee amputation of her left leg due to increased spasticity. The amputation placed her in a different competition category, but she continued to achieve success, including five gold medals in the ITU elite circuit the following year.

Seely has faced significant medical challenges, including multiple abdominal surgeries due to gastroparesis and treatment for endocarditis and blood clots. Despite these setbacks, she returned to competition, winning gold at the Tokyo Paralympics and bronze at the Paris Paralympics.

Seely holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in biology and psychology and a master's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Arizona State University. She is pursuing a PhD in exercise physiology. Seely was featured in ESPN The Magazine's Body Issue and received an ESPY Award for Best Female Athlete with a Disability. She has served as vice chair and athlete representative to the World Triathlon Executive Board on the Athletes' Committee. Beyond competition, Seely advocates for para-athletes and adaptive sport, contributing to evidence-based advocacy and policy development. Through her speaking engagements, she addresses resilience, determination, and the impact of sport, offering insights on overcoming adversity and advancing adaptive athletics.