US Veteran to make debut at Paris Paralympic Games

A U.S. Army Veteran and Brownsville native is headed to his first Paralympic Games this summer. Jason Tabansky is among the world’s top archery athletes who will represent the United States along with other para-athletes in Paris. 

The Paralympic Games represents athletes with physical disabilities and impairments. They are held every two years, just like the Olympic Games. 

As Gabriela Gonzalez explains, Tabansky was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley with a passion to serve the country. His career began in 2001, serving in Afghanastan and Iraq as a Chinook helicopter mechanic, crewmember and flight instructor. 

In 2015, Tabansky suffered a spine injury that left him wheelchair bound, concluding his active duty commitment. Since his accident, Tabansky has led a life as a full-time athlete with a fulfilled dream of becoming a Paralympian. 

Tabansky’s notable athletic accomplisments include claiming the gold at the 2024 Para Pan American Championship and winning silver at the 2023 Para Pan American Games. “It’s been a long journey and I, along with those who have helped train and mentor me, have put in a lot of hard work into being at the top of my game,” Tabansky said. 

“I can’t wait to be able to put all that training to work.” The Paralympic Games Paris 2024 will showcase 22 individual and team sports, including archery. Events will take place in Paris starting August 28 through September 8.