Shirlene Coelho of Brazil competes in Women's Javelin Throw - F37/38 Final during the 2011 Parapan American Games at Telmex Athletics Stadium on Nov. 15, 2011 in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Despite being diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child, Coelho took up soccer—Brazil’s national sport—and cycling. But six years ago, at the age of 24, she decided to try out track and field events. In Beijing she hurled the javelin 35.95m (118) feet to claim the silver. Now she has her eye on gold. She won first place at last year’s world championships, and also claimed a silver medal in the shot put.