Arz Zahreddine (Instagram) is a Paralympian hailing from Lebanon. After a life-altering accident when he was just three, Zahreddine lost his right leg. However, he has since defied the odds to emerge as an inspiring athlete, proudly representing his country as their sole Paralympian at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Through his determination and skill in the men’s 200m T64 qualifying heat, he managed to beat his personal best.
Arz Zahreddine, welcome, your journey to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games is incredibly inspiring. Can you share with us what motivated you to pursue sports, particularly running, at such a young age despite facing challenges?
I was once a top fencer, winning many medals. Switching to elite running wasn’t easy, but I’m driven by pushing my limits. Seeing athletes overcome challenges inspires me to be even better. I faced bullying for being different, but I embrace my uniqueness. We’re all unique, and I believe in working hard around the clock to show our true potential and strive for excellence.
Transitioning from fencing to running is quite a significant change. What prompted this transition, and how did you find your passion for running?
I love moving fast and playing around, so I decided to switch gears and focus on short distance running. My big dream? Competing in the Paralympics and becoming the first Arab qualifier in my category, T64 (one leg amputation below the knee). I wanted to make myself proud and inspire pride in all Arabs! And I achieved my goal in a very short period of time.
Qualifying for the Paralympic Games just two years into your Paralympic career is an impressive achievement. What do you attribute your rapid success to, and what challenges did you face along the way?
Dedication always beats motivation! My goal was to run in Tokyo with my idol, Paralympian Jarryd Wallace as we had become friends, and to see myself in front of these high-level athletes. I quickly found success, but I put and focused on short term goals that would lead to big successes, and I made it. After Tokyo 2020, I was ranked 2nd in Asia and 8th in the world in the T64 category.
Can you share any specific moments or experiences that tested your resilience and how you overcame them?
Sure, we all know the challenges in Lebanon. But I learned that the true meaning of disability
isn’t just physical loss; it’s also facing big events with zero facilities and training in an unstable country. I even had to escape the Beirut port explosion, which happened just hundreds of metres away from the gym. I immediately sought support from a sports psychologist and set up a small gym in my apartment to stay in shape during Covid – and the explosion!
Jarryd Wallace served as an inspiration for you. How did his journey influence your own path in sports, and do you hope to inspire others in a similar way?
Jarryd played a big role in my life after I watched his journey. I learned how to be more resilient in life, seeing how he holds many titles yet remains down to earth and helps everyone. He’s one of the greatest men in the history of para athletics. From my perspective, my motto reflects what matters most to me: ‘Serve, Empower, Conquer.’ As you grow in influence and power, you should serve the community that supported you during your journey. Empower them to be productive and independent, so they can conquer and excel in their own fields.
How have sports impacted your life beyond the realm of athletics, and what lessons have you learned from your experiences as a Paralympic athlete?
Sport is the ultimate remedy for all pain and trauma. Running and confronting obstacles make you stronger in life because you realise that every problem is like a race – it starts at point A and always ends at the finish line. There’s always an end to all the negative things we face, but we have to believe in ourselves and not stop half way!
Can you describe the camaraderie and sense of community among Paralympic athletes, and how this support network contributes to your journey?
Every athlete has their own unique story; that’s what life is all about. We come from different countries, cultures, and circumstances, but we share the same mind set of striving and working hard daily. Disability is often just an illusion, and true disability is when you have all you need but choose to do nothing. We’re like a family, supporting each other along the way.
Can you share any insights into your training regimen and the dedication required to excel in your sport at the elite level?
I train three times a day, five days a week, following a strict diet plan of seven meals per day. I’m also supported by a sports psychologist. Thanks to this regimen, I’ve qualified for the Paralympics for the second time! This time, I’ll be competing in both the 100 and 200 metres, not just the 200m.
How does it feel to represent your country on such a prestigious international stage?
Lebanon first appeared in the Paralympics in 2012. Since then, my goal has been to showcase Lebanon in major events and stadiums like the Paralympics again. When I was in Tokyo, tears welled in my eyes because I realised I was the only representative for my homeland, despite also holding a second passport from Argentina.
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What are your aspirations and plans for your athletic career, and how do you envision continuing to inspire others through your journey?
My aim now is to find support from an Arab country, especially from the GCC, to make a greater impact in the sports industry and show that Arabs can excel in major events. Why not the UAE, since they’ve supported me throughout my life? I feel that UAE and Dubai are my true sources of inspiration, offering boundless opportunities, especially for people with determination. I greatly admire His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan for his unwavering support, leadership, and vision.
What does power mean to you?
Power, to me, is the ability to inspire, create change, and uplift others. It’s not about control or dominance, but about using influence to make a positive impact and empower those around you to reach their full potential.
For more stories of remarkable individuals, like Arz Zahreddine, from across the MENA region, visit our arts and culture pages.
