Inspiring story

A 2005 motorcycle accident that severed his spinal cord hasn't kept Zach Young from enjoying and participating in sports.

Young, 30, participated in the wheelchair division of the City of Roses Half Marathon/5K race on Sunday -- one of many events he's competed in since the traumatic accident. A story about him appeared in Monday's Southeast Missourian.

Young said it was a struggle to accept his new life after the accident, but four years ago he was given a hand cycle by a Korean War veteran. That led to two years of developing the muscles critical to the sport.

The Southeast Missouri State student has an impressive list of competitions in which he's participated, including 15 triathlons, a full marathon, two half-marathons, three biathlons, several 5-kilometer races and an 82-mile endurance event. He has a goal of making the 2016 Paralympics.

Young has an inspiring story. His drive to compete and good attitude are admirable and serve as a challenge to others to keep a positive outlook, even when facing challenges.

We wish him the best in his pursuit of the Paralympics.