We are thrilled to support Jenson Van Emburgh as he competes for gold at the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris! Jenson is not only a rising table tennis star but a member of the Wheelers family, as his dad, Greg, is our vehicle manager in Tampa! He is the #1 ranked wheelchair class 3 player in the US and all of the Americas and the #4 ranked player in the world. Jenson is gearing up for an exciting year with his sights set on winning gold at the upcoming Para French Open, the Para Pan American Games, and ultimately the 2024 Paralympics.
Jenson’s Journey to the 2024 Paralympics
Jensons Love for Table Tennis & Setbacks He Overcame
Jenson Van Emburgh’s journey is one of perseverance and determination. Born with a spinal cord injury, Jenson faced significant challenges from the start. At the age of 10, he discovered his love for table tennis, a sport that would change his life.
In 2016, Jenson underwent a life-threatening spinal fusion surgery. “For nine months, I had complications with infection, blood clots, and all this stuff. And the only thing I had to focus on when I was trying to recover and get better was the Tokyo Paralympics,” Van Emburgh shared. He added, “There were a lot of moments where I felt that I wasn’t going to be able to compete the way that I did before because I wasn’t sure how my body was going to feel or that type of stuff.”
2020 Paralympic Games Bronze Medalist
Despite these hurdles, Jenson’s dedication to his sport never wavered. His hard work paid off at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games, where he won a bronze medal. “It was incredible,” Van Emburgh recalled. “I couldn’t believe it. It was a dream come true.”
His Winning Streak Continues
Jenson continued to excel, earning a silver medal at the 2022 World Championships and a gold medal at the 2023 Para Pan American Games. His achievements are a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to his sport.
Jenson’s coach, Jeff Yamada, praised him for his resilience, sharing, “He has demonstrated remarkable internal strength, crucial for becoming a top player. Facing these adversities has not only improved his game but has also shaped him into a better person.”
How You Can Help Jenson on the Road to Paris
As Jenson prepares for the 2024 Paralympics, he needs our support more than ever. The journey to Paris involves significant expenses, including coaching and training, equipment, living costs, and travel. You can help Jenson by contributing to his GoFundMe campaign.
Good Luck, Jenson!
We are incredibly proud of Jenson’s accomplishments and are excited to cheer on a member of the Wheelers family as he competes on the world stage. Join us in supporting Jenson by contributing to his GoFundMe and following his journey to the 2024 Summer Paralympics for table tennis.
Reach out to Wheelers Accessible Van Rentals for more information and ways to support Jenson. You can follow along with the Summer 2024 Paralympics on NBC and Peacock.
Don’t forget to share your well-wishes with Jenson’s family the next time you rent an accessible van from our location in the Tampa area!