WELCOME
Hi, I’m Leo McCrea, and I’m proud to be Switzerland’s first-ever Paralympic swimming champion after winning gold at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. My journey isn’t just about winning—it’s about breaking barriers and inspiring other athletes, especially those with disabilities, to pursue their dreams and feel empowered.
I’m passionate about breaking down barriers in sport and making it accessible to everyone, especially people with disabilities. Right now, there’s a lot of focus on equality and inclusivity, and I believe sport is one of the most powerful ways to bring people together. I want to work with organizations that are as driven as I am to create real, impactful change through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), pushing for inclusion at every level—from grassroots programs to professional sport.
And with my dual nationality—British and Swiss—I’m in a unique position to help businesses and organizations bridge the gap between these two countries. By working together, we can use sport as a platform to inspire future generations, open up more opportunities for people with disabilities, and create a more inclusive society.
Thank you very much for your interest — I’m excited to share this journey with you!
ACHIEVEMENTS
PARALYMPICS
2024, Paris: Gold in 100m Breastroke
2020, Tokyo: 5th 100m Breastroke
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
2023, Manchester: Silver in 100m Breastroke
2022, Madeira: Silver in 100m Breastroke
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
2024, Madeira: Bronze in 100m Breastroke
ABOUT ME
I first got into swimming to find relief from the joint strain caused by achondroplasia, but it quickly became my passion and purpose. Since then, the journey has taken me from the pool in my hometown to winning gold in Paris. But my biggest takeaway has been the chance to advocate for inclusion and accessibility in sports, to show that athletes of all abilities can compete at the highest levels with the right support and adaptation.
Living with achondroplasia has meant finding new ways to train and adapt every day. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned that with the right mindset and grit, there’s no limit to what’s possible. I hope my story resonates with athletes—especially those with disabilities—and encourages them to believe in their own potential.
When I’m not training, I like to balance my life with downtime by the sea in Bournemouth and Poole or taking in the views while hiking the lakes and mountains in Switzerland. Fishing by the lake is my go-to summer relaxation. People always ask how I manage the high-calorie intake to fuel daily swim and gym sessions, and for me, it’s about choosing the right foods. I’m all about fresh, quality ingredients—nutritious cheeses, eggs, and pasta (tortellini is a daily favourite) to keep my energy high. A good piece of grilled tuna, salmon, or steak tops it off. And I never say no to my favourite snack treats of delicious Swiss chocolate or a slice of healthy Swiss cheese on a wholemeal cracker. My nutrition plan is all about balance, and I focus on quality ingredients with minimal additives, something that’s important to me.
With this balance of dedication, lifestyle, and authentic values, I hope to inspire the next generation and partner with brands that align with my mission for inclusive, high-quality, and performance-driven living. I’m grateful to have you here as part of my journey to open doors in sports and show what’s possible with the right mindset and support.
MY REASON WHY
I aim to break barriers for athletes with disabilities, proving that world-class performance is achievable with the right mindset and support. My journey to becoming a Paralympic champion is driven by a deep love for the sport and a mission to inspire inclusivity in sports worldwide.
MY VALUES
Quality: I value the best in everything, from training to the food I eat.
Authenticity: Staying true to myself, sharing my challenges openly, and representing the reality of elite athletic life.
Inclusivity: Advocating for opportunities for athletes with disabilities, ensuring everyone has a fair shot at pursuing their passion.
DATE OF BIRTH
9th November 2003
DISCIPLINE
100m Breastroke
CATEGORY
SB5/S6
DISABILITY
Achondroplasia
EDUCATION
BSc (Hons) Sports Management,
Bournemouth University
HOBBIES
Fishing | Football | Travel | Gaming
NEWS
CONTACT ME
