The 21-year-old is set to compete in the men’s 100m T38 event and is determined to add yet another medal to his growing personal tally.
Young, a triple European champion and silver medallist at the 2019 World Championships in Doha, heads to Tokyo in fine form and even better spirits following a difficult 18 months for everyone.
“I hoped that the Paralympics would be this year, so I’ve kept on training with the goal of still going to Tokyo,” Thomas told Loughborough Sport.
“Being able to race more this year has made the sport more enjoyable because I love to compete…I hope to go there and win the gold.
“Coming off the World Championships in 2019 I got silver in a photo finish, so with that in mind, hopefully I can go one better and get the gold.”
The ParalympicsGB rising star also spoke about his special relationship with sprint coach Joe McDonnell, and how by working together he’s now in the best possible shape to potentially podium in Japan.
“I know that everything me and Joe have done over the past few years has got me to this situation…there’s nothing else I can do now but go and run how I have in the past,” he explained.
“I just try and do my thing and hopefully go out there, win the gold, and people will be cheering me on from home in Loughborough.”
Thomas will first compete in the heats of the men’s 100m T38 on Saturday (tomorrow) 28th August at 3:10am BST. The final of event will take place on the same day at 11:35am BST and will be live on Channel 4.
If you’re feeling inspired by the Paralympic Games, you can help support the future of Para sport on campus. By donating to the Para Sport programme, individuals can make a profound impact to a young person’s life. To find out how you can help, visit HERE.
For more information on Loughborough and its presence at the Paralympic Games, visit the dedicated website HERE.