Events

Yuka Chokyu, an accomplished para-athlete, is a remarkable example of resilience, dedication, and adaptability. Her journey from Tokyo to Canada, and from wheelchair tennis to para badminton, is a testament to her determination to excel in every challenge she faces.

Yuka's academic background is as diverse as her athletic career. She initially graduated with a degree in English Linguistics from a university in Tokyo. Reflecting on her choice of study, Yuka shared, "I chose that field because, to be honest, I didn't have an interest in any other field, so it was more of an elimination selection method." Her passion for learning didn't stop there. After a life-changing accident in Canada that left her paraplegic, Yuka went on to earn a General Business Diploma from a college, driven by a desire to help her father's company.

Her athletic journey began with wheelchair tennis, a sport she initially disliked. "My boyfriend then 'forced' me to try tennis from a wheelchair at a local park, and I hated it at first. But I started to love the sport within a month as I was finally able to hit the ball!" she recalls. Yuka's commitment to wheelchair tennis lasted 17 years, a period during which she traveled to 23 countries to compete.

After deciding she had enough of wheelchair tennis, Yuka transitioned to para-rowing, a sport she pursued for 2.5 years. However, her love for tennis brought her back to the sport as she aimed to qualify for the Toronto Parapan Am Games in 2015. Yuka then made another significant switch to para badminton in 2017, motivated by the sport's inclusion in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and her previous experience as an able-bodied badminton player.

Her dedication to para badminton has taken her to 12 countries, adding to the impressive list of places her athletic career has led her. Despite her extensive travels and numerous achievements, Yuka continues to look forward, contemplating her future beyond sports. "After I retire from the sport (I haven't decided when, though), I would like to further progress with my interest in the field of counseling, which I have been studying through online courses in Japanese," she shares.

Yuka Chokyu's journey is not just about athletic achievements but also about overcoming adversity, embracing change, and continuously striving for personal growth. Her story is an inspiration to many, and she remains a shining example of what can be achieved with resilience and determination.

About the Paralympics

Para badminton competition starts on August 29. See the schedule here

Livestream - Create a free account on CBC Gem by following these four easy steps:

1. Visit CBC Gem.
2. Create your account by providing an email address.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete registration (no credit card details required).
4. Access the live stream and enjoy the para badminton matches!