Fran Brown’s story is one of relentless pursuit of new challenges, resilience, and extraordinary achievements. During an accident at work, Fran's life took a dramatic turn as she gained a C4 spinal cord injury that affected all four limbs. However, her drive to continuously learn and master new skills sets her apart.
From circus artist to being a Paris 2024 Paralympian, Fran’s journey is a testament to her power of determination: "I hate feeling stale and not having a new challenge," she says. "If I can nail it the first time I try it, I’m not interested."
Fran pursued her sporting journey through para-climbing and became a world champion in 2012 and 2014. When the sport wasn't included in the Paralympics, she sought new challenges, moving to para-triathlon and, eventually, para-cycling.
The switch to cycling from triathlon was driven by health concerns. "With my impairment being a spinal cord injury, running was hardest for me physically," she explains. The diagnosis of Crohn’s disease and the need for a stoma made running even more difficult. "Running seemed to set off my Crohn’s the worst," Fran recounts. Despite these setbacks, she focused on cycling, a sport that impacted her health the least.
Fran's journey was far from smooth. She faced a severe elbow injury from a past triathlon crash and a medical error during an operation left her with broken ribs, compounding her physical challenges. But Fran's mindset remained resolute. "My mindset was to get back to training as quickly as possible," she says. "I live for sport. Taking time off makes me a bit miserable, so that wasn’t part of the plan."
Despite these obstacles, Fran's first performance of the 2023 season at the UCI Para Cycling World Championships was extraordinary. Her preparation was hindered by injuries, yet she surpassed all expectations.
"The first one I was a bit shell-shocked after setting the world record," she recalls, later going on to win five golds and one silver. "The most emotional one was the time trial. That was the jersey I really wanted to defend."
Following from her 2023 season, winning the BEAA's Athletes’ Athlete of the Year award was a profound honour for Fran. "It’s just amazing to think that my fellow athletes would take the time to vote for me," she says. Her unique background and journey make this recognition even more special. "I always feel really proud to be on a World Class Programme, pull on a kit, and represent my country."
Fran Brown’s journey is a powerful reminder that overcoming obstacles is possible with the right mindset and unwavering determination. This summer, she makes her Paralympic debut. Some ride.
