Jacqui Kapinowski
Competition | 2022
Hometown: Tequesta, FL
In her early 20’s, while being an active runner and
athlete, Jacqui Kapinowski was diagnosed with bacterial
meningitis. She recovered from the first bout and
returned to competitive marathon running. Five years
later Jacqui was impacted by a second diagnosis of
bacterial meningitis.
Jacqui went on to be a two-time Paralympian for Team
USA in both winter and summer games. She has
attained nine World Championships in four sports:
curling, triathlon, wheelchair road racing, and rowing.
She has competed in almost 90 marathons, 19 as a
runner and 71 in her racing wheelchair and hand-cycle.
Jacqui competed in her first Ironman Triathlon in
November 2014.
In the process, Jacqui founded Shifting Gears United
on September 11, 2019, with the purpose of sharing her
passion and years of experience in sports and mentoring
wounded veterans, first responders and individuals living with various disabilities. In addition,
Jacqui created the Freedom Coast Bicycle Ride. She has given back to support so many other
athletes today.
