'Super hard' year costs swimmer Shaw Paralympic medal

Swimmer Toni Shaw came up just short in her quest for a podium finish in the Women’s 400m freestyle S9 final on the opening day of the Paralympics in Paris.

The Aberdonian seemed to be fighting back into contention for bronze at one stage, but ultimately succumbed to finish in fifth at Paris La Defense Arena.

“It obviously wasn't the race I wanted,” Shaw told BBC Scotland.

“I've had a super hard year being injured, so just to be here is really special. I guess I was in a Paralympic final so I’ve got to be happy with that.”

The near-capacity venue was whipped into an early frenzy when home favourite Ugo Didier won gold in the opening race of the meet just prior to Shaw’s.

She couldn't capitalise on that environment and her focus after this disappointment is to put in as strong a performance in her remaining races and build from there.

“Obviously, that was my main event," she added.

"I’ve got two more races so I’ll be back cheerleading for a few days and then training to do my best in my next two swims. I'd love to make finals in those other two."

Beyond that Shaw, 21, is hoping to have a less challenging road to Los Angeles 2028.

“I think hopefully having a smooth four years, fingers crossed, for the next one,” she said. “Hopefully no injuries, no missing training and I think I'd be in a better place.

“When I finished, I saw some of my family in the crowd and without them I wouldn't be here. So it was super special seeing them and the support they've given me.”