Summers-Newton says ‘it’s what dreams are made of’ as she retains another title

Maisie Summers-Newton makes it a double title defence after retaining her 100m Breaststroke SB6 crown with a record-breaking swim.

The superstar from Northampton broke her own Paralympic record on her way to a second gold medal of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

After successfully defending her 200m Individual Medley SM6 title on day two of the competition, Summers-Newton now has four Paralympic gold medals to her name – a feat which she described as ‘what dreams are made of’.

The 22-year-old’s previous record stood at 1:32.34 but she was able to lower that by a further 1.04 to touch the wall in 1:31.30.

“I’m so chuffed. Obviously, I was delighted with my IM but the team’s doing so well, so I definitely wanted to get another medal.

“I knew I had a great chance and obviously it was a straight final so I’ve got to give it my all. We did a little session this morning and I was speedy, felt good and I’m so happy to defend both my titles.

“This time I’m just trying to live in the moment a little bit more and not panic too much. 100m Breaststroke, my attitude just completely changed compared to my IM.

“I wasn’t as nervous, felt more relaxed, controlled and obviously that paid off in the race so I’m so pleased.

“It’s crazy – four-time Paralympic champion like oh my God – it’s what dreams are made of.

“When I was watching Ellie [Simmonds] at London 2012, never ever would I have thought I’d come away with one Paralympic gold medal let alone four, so to come away from my second Paralympic Games defending both my titles, I’m just so pleased.

“My self-belief is quite low sometimes but I’m just so happy to get that other gold medal.”