For a long time, Antoine Leymarie preferred not to speak about his disability. At the age of 13, he lost the use of his right foot, requiring a brace to walk and ending his football career. During adolescence, he dreaded looks and questions, particularly about being seen barefoot. Even to his athletics coach, he spoke of an injury.
His mother enrolled him in the 10 km race in Brive. Despite his initial reluctance, he participated on May 25, 2012, and won the junior category. This victory was a turning point, showing him that his difference would not prevent him from excelling.
Running became his anchor. Over the years, he learned to manage his orthosis and adapt his training. He later turned to handisport almost by chance. Watching the Rio Paralympic Games, he noticed a German athlete with the same orthosis. Contacting her on social media revealed that her disability was officially recognized in competition, a realization that opened doors for him.
Now 28, and a member of CAB Athlé, Antoine Leymarie is the French road race champion in his category and was recently honored as one of the City's Champions. However, he emphasizes the encounters and friendships made along the way over his titles.
Sport is only part of his life. At Sciences Po, Antoine is preparing a thesis in health economics on the transformations in the medical sector and their effects on professionals and patients, a subject he discusses on television and radio.
This demanding academic pursuit led him to make a choice. After years competing at the highest level in handisport triathlon, Antoine decided to pause his competition to complete his doctorate, unwilling to jeopardize it. Triathlon can wait, but his projects will not. He envisions a future in research at the CNRS, university teaching, or public service.
Antoine sometimes feels he isn't the most legitimate voice on the subject, preferring to defer to others. Yet, his words resonate. His message to his 13-year-old self is perhaps one of the most impactful: 'Don't be ashamed of what you didn't choose.'
“"Don't be ashamed of what you didn't choose."
The Forum du handicap will take place on Wednesday, October 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Salle Georges-Brassens. Associations, services, and local stakeholders will be present. Entry is free, with accessible parking and restrooms nearby.
