KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) – The 2024 Paralympic games in Paris have ended, and athletes are preparing for the journey home. Kingsport Native Blake Leeper was there, representing his country and hometown.
Leeper, now a two-time Paralympian, had the support of friends and family both in the stands and worldwide.
Kingsport native headed to 2024 Paralympics “But knowing that they were there in the stands,” said Leeper. “And knowing what we’ve been through. I felt like I wasn’t just running for myself. I felt like I was running for my family and for my friends; I’m running for everybody back in Kingsport.”
His family in Kingsport continued to cheer him on, including his Aunt Tonia Johnson and his Uncle Reggie Leeper. Both Johnson and Reggie have followed Blake’s journey since the beginning.
“It was exciting to me,” said Johnson, regarding the start of Leeper’s running journey. “Because I was like, ‘Blake running?’ Then, when he said, ‘Aunt Tonia when I felt the wind hit my face, that just felt good.’ And then he started after that.”
“He’s always been outstanding,” said Reggie. “I knew nothing could stop him.”
On Friday, Leeper ran in the Men’s 400-meter race and took home fourth place. Leeper said that placement brought up a sense of disappointment.
“I left that track a little disappointed,” said Leeper. “My head was held down kind of low at the time. I felt like I let a lot of people down.”
But disappointment wasn’t what anyone felt following the race.
“All the individuals who’ve seen me compete over the years back in Kingsport were reaching out,” Leeper said. “Saying, ‘We’re so proud of you, Blake.'”
His family back home echoed the support.
“I don’t care what [place] he came in,” said Johnson. “I don’t care whether he medals or not. I’m proud of him; I’m so proud of him.”
Leeper played a part in the closing ceremony as the Paralympics closed out.
“Even though I didn’t medal, to be a part of the closing ceremony,” said Leeper. “And the passing of the flag with the Mayor of L.A. It was a full circle moment for me.”
Leeper said the 2028 games will be his last, but he plans to go out with a bang.
“I want to go out there with the medal,” said Leeper. “I want to show the world what my career has been all about. And I want to do it on home soil and bring back some more medals.”
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