Photo: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty
Oksana Mastersis making history following her gold medal win at the Tokyo Paralympics.
Moto Yoshimura/Getty
“All the stuff that was ingrained in my younger self, are also the reasons why I’ve been able to, with the support of so many people behind me, get to where I am today,” said Masters, according toESPN. “I’m hoping that my journey is helping inspire that next young girl.”
The athlete continued, “It’s not about the medals. It’s not about anything else except leaving a legacy, being one example for that young girl to see.”
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Since her Paralympic debut, Masters has now earned nine medals — three gold, three silver, and three bronze.
On Tuesday, Pike, who has competed in wheelchair racing, biathlon and cross-country skiing competitions, celebrated his girlfriend’s victory. “You’ve fought through so much for this! I’m so damn happy for you right now!” he wrote on Instagram Story, also calling her the “best in the world.”
CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty
The couple, who has been together for seven years and lives in Champaign, Illinois, intend to leave Tokyo, turn right around, and train for the Paralympic trials for Beijing 2022.
“It’s the first time and probably the only time that winter and summer will be within one year,” said Masters. “I feel like all the Paralympians, and I prove the impossible is possible, and I’m just taking that as another opportunity to be a part of history.”
To learn more about all the Paralympic hopefuls, visitTeamUSA.org. The Tokyo Paralympics air on NBC until September 5.
source: people.com
