Paralympic sprinter Zac Shaw is targeting the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games after enduring what he describes as the toughest year of his career following the death of his mother, Evette, from cancer in August 2025. The 30-year-old, who has won four World Championship medals, two Paralympic medals, and a Commonwealth silver, will be racing in her memory.
Silver at Birmingham 2022 Amid Mother's Illness
Shaw's mother was diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma before the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. She went into remission six weeks before the event, allowing Shaw to focus on his race. He won silver in the T12 100m final and celebrated with his family in the crowd. "Honestly, my first reaction was that I had come second, not that I had won a silver," Shaw said.
Relapse and Final Months
In March 2025, Shaw noticed a change in his mother's voice during their daily phone calls, leading to a diagnosis of relapse. The cancer was too aggressive for further treatment, and she was placed on end-of-life care. Shaw withdrew from the Diamond League event in London in July 2025 to be with her. "There are some things that are just more important than sport," he said.
Return to Training and Mental Health
After his mother passed away, Shaw returned to Loughborough and resumed training the next day. He initially aimed to compete at the World Championships in New Delhi but reconsidered: "I thought it would be an amazing story. But then I thought: 'Who am I trying to impress?' and I realised it probably wasn't healthy for me."
Visual Impairment and Paralympic Career
Shaw has Stargardt Disease, a visual impairment diagnosed at age 13. Inspired by the London 2012 Paralympics, he began sprinting but was overlooked for the 2016 and 2020 Paralympic Games. He finally earned silver and bronze at Paris 2024. "I remember standing on the start line thinking what a journey it would have been from where I started," he said.
Glasgow 2026 and National Lottery Support
Shaw is now focusing on the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, which he values for providing a level playing field for para-athletes. "The Commonwealth Games is the one chance we get at a level playing field, and I love it," he said. Thanks to National Lottery players, more than £33 million is raised every week for good causes, supporting athletes like Shaw.
