When you first meet Kym Crosby, you notice her bright smile and unwavering confidence. What you can’t see immediately is the significant challenge she faces every day. Born with albinism, Kym has no pigment in her hair, skin, or eyes, and is legally blind with 20/400 vision. Despite these obstacles, Kym has become one of the fastest women in the world—an elite Paralympic sprinter and a role model for adaptive athletes everywhere.

From Ball Sports to Track Stardom

Kym grew up in Glendale, Arizona, trying nearly every sport that involved a ball. But her limited vision made it difficult to thrive in traditional team sports. Everything changed in 2007 when her brother suggested she try track and field.

“The moment I stepped on the track, something clicked,” Kym recalls. “It was the first time I felt completely free. I didn’t need anyone’s help—I could just run.”

With relentless dedication, Kym transformed into a world-class athlete.

Medals and Milestones

🥉 2016 Rio Paralympics: Bronze medalist in the 100m, 4th place in the 400m

🥇 2019 Parapan American Games: Gold medalist

🥉 2020 Tokyo Paralympics: Bronze medalist (second career Paralympic medal)

Competing in the T13 classification, Kym relies on the contrast between white lane lines and the track to navigate sprints at blistering speeds. Her achievements are proof that limited sight doesn’t mean limited dreams.

Giving Back: Coaching and Mentorship

While training for the highest levels of competition, Kym also pours her energy into coaching for the CAF High School Adaptive Sports Program (HSASP). Alongside fellow Paralympians Erik Hightower and Justin Phongsavanh, she has mentored young adaptive athletes for two years, helping them discover their athletic potential.

In 2021, Kym’s impact was recognized with the Trailblazer Award, honoring her courage, commitment, and leadership in opening doors for others in the adaptive sports community.

Trailblazing Beyond the Track

For Kym, running is about more than medals—it’s about changing perceptions.

“The thing I love about track is that it allows me to be me. I forget I’m visually impaired when I’m on the track. I’m able to fly,” she says.

As a two-time Paralympic medalist, dedicated coach, and passionate advocate for adaptive sports, Kym continues blazing trails for future athletes who dream of sprinting toward greatness.