Tracy Otto Makes U.S. Archery Team for Paris 2024

Tracy Otto was eating lunch when her boyfriend, Ricky Riessle surprised her with the news that she had qualified for the Paralympics. Overwhelmed with emotion, Otto eating and crying amid cameras learned she had made the U.S. archery team for Paris 2024. She will compete in both mixed teams with partner Jason Tabansky and the W1 open individuals competition. Otto’s journey to the Paralympics is nothing short of remarkable.

In October 2019, her ex-boyfriend attacked her brutally, leaving her paralyzed from the chest down and unable to use her arms and hands. She faced significant health challenges, including losing her left eye and the inability to sweat or regulate her body temperature. Despite these severe injuries, Otto has shown extraordinary resilience. After ending their relationship, her ex-boyfriend broke into her home and attacked her and Riessle.

He then assaulted her further before calling the police on himself. Authorities later sentenced him to 40 years in prison. Determined to regain control of her life, Otto took up archery in March 2021, a sport she had never tried before. She adapted her technique with a harness and a mouth-operated release mechanism. Her passion and commitment quickly led her to compete nationally and eventually secure her place in the Paris 2024 Paralympics.

Tracy Otto remains candid about her traumatic past and ongoing struggles but emphasizes how archery has transformed her life. She finds joy in her new pursuits and credits Ricky for his support. Otto hopes her story serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges, reflecting on how her life is now filled with color, love and laughter.