Zion Clark, the athlete who was born without legs and without excuses

Zion Clark, the fighter who dreams of the Paralympics 2:00

(CNN Spanish) -

The athlete Zion Clark was born without legs due to a condition called caudal regression syndrome, which "generally affects the lower part of the body, also the nervous system and the development of the lower extremities," according to himself. explained to CNN.

But not even that syndrome could stop him: He excelled in the sport of wrestling during his high school education, ending his final season with a record of 33 wins and just 15 losses.

Clark says that "no matter what the disability is, what matters is what you have in your mind and heart."

In fact, last month, Clark competed in the US Paralympic track and field team events, held in Minneapolis.

In addition, he travels around the world to motivate people with his story, as he prepares to qualify for the Paralympic Summer Games, Paris 2024.

But, as the biography on his official website recounts, Clark's path has not been easy.

In addition to being born without legs, his biological mother was unable to care for him, so he grew up in foster homes in Columbus, Ohio, United States, according to his website.

For 16 years, he faced several moves and some unfavorable conditions: "Growing up I was definitely 'the stranger', and at the same time dealing with all kinds of battles, as well as being disabled. I was abused in the foster care system, I was mistreated, physically, mentally, emotionally abused, psychologically abused day after day, "the young man told CNN.

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A sport changed his mentality

Wrestling came into his life while he was in elementary school ... although it wasn't love at first sight.

What's more, as his biography points out, he didn't win a competition for several years.

His passion for the sport was discovered by coach Gil Donahue at Massillon High School in Ohio.

Under his guidance and with great discipline, Clark not only developed a friendship with his coach, but also improved his fighting techniques.

"At some point in my life I had to block out everything negative. Focus on my things, my friends and the people who didn't see me differently," Clark recalled.

Netflix and a book

Faced with so much dedication and desire to get ahead, Clark's efforts found their opportunity.

Director Floyd Russ produced a documentary called "Zion," which is available on Netflix.

"Netflix definitely released my name and my story," he said.

"I thank Floyd Russ for making this possible."

Now, Clark seeks to inspire the world through his book entitled "

Zion Unmatched"

and prepares physically and mentally to qualify for the 2024 Summer Paralympic Games.

"There is no reason for you to get out of bed, make your bed and start the day and not go out chasing those dreams. Not even chasing them, striving for them. Failures are part of the human race. What limits you to be 'the next great feat'? Nothing, because there is nothing to limit you, "said Zion.

AthletesSportsMotivationSelf-ImprovementZion Clark