For Carson Clough, sport has always been part of who he is.

A former Division I lacrosse player at the University of North Carolina, Carson thrived in competition and community. But in 2019, his life changed dramatically after a boating accident on Lake Norman resulted in the below-the-knee amputation of his right leg.

In the years that followed, Carson chose not to step away from sport — he chose to redefine it.

Today, he stands among the world’s best Para triathletes, earning a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and inspiring athletes everywhere to pursue what is possible.

Finding a New Start Through Sport

After his accident, Carson focused on rebuilding his life while also preparing to open his coffee business, Giddy Goat Coffee Roasters, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

But the competitive drive that shaped his years as a lacrosse player never left.

In 2022, Carson discovered Para triathlon, a sport that combines swimming, cycling, and running — and demands both physical strength and mental resilience.

That same year, he entered his first triathlon.

It was the beginning of something much bigger.

A Rapid Rise in Para Triathlon

Carson’s natural athleticism and determination quickly became evident.

Within his first season competing, he captured gold at the 2022 Paratriathlon National Championships, signaling his arrival as one of the sport’s rising athletes.

From there, he began competing internationally, earning more than 10 podium finishes in World Triathlon events and steadily climbing the ranks in the PTS4 Men’s classification.

His momentum continued when he won a major race in Miami — a result that helped secure his qualification for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Representing Team USA on the World Stage

At the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Carson competed against the best Para triathletes in the world in the PTS4 Men’s division.

The race included:

• A half-mile swim
• A fast-paced cycling segment
• A 3.1-mile run to the finish line

Carson delivered an exceptional performance, earning a silver medal for Team USA in his Paralympic debut.

His result placed him among the top athletes in the sport and marked a powerful milestone in a journey that began just two years earlier.

Life Beyond the Finish Line

Outside of competition, Carson continues to build a life rooted in community and passion.

He helps run Giddy Goat Coffee Roasters, enjoys surfing around the world, and spends time with family, friends, and his dog, Calder.

Whether in sport, business, or everyday life, Carson embodies the belief that challenges can become opportunities.

Expanding What Is Possible Through Sport

Carson’s journey reflects the broader impact of the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) — creating access to sport for athletes with physical disabilities at every stage of their journey.

From first starts to Paralympic podiums, CAF support helps athletes gain access to:

• Adaptive sports equipment
• Training opportunities
• Community and mentorship
• Competition pathways

Stories like Carson’s show what can happen when athletes have the resources and support to pursue their goals.