Lowri Hurd: The 18-year-old overcoming a rare syndrome to conquer elite Para table tennis

In the world of para table tennis, the name Lowri Hurd is emerging as a special phenomenon. In her first season on the international stage, the 18-year-old Welsh player won medals at three tournaments in Spain, Slovenia and Thailand, beating both the world and European champions. Remarkably, she switched from able-bodied to para table tennis just over a year ago, while living with the rare Myhre syndrome. This rapid progress has prompted the British Para Table Tennis Federation (BPTT) to promote her to the Performance Squad, the national central training group for elite athletes. Born with Myhre syndrome – a rare genetic disorder affecting connective tissue, causing joint stiffness, muscle weakness and cardiovascular issues – Lowri Hurd never thought she could compete at the highest level. She began playing table tennis recreationally as a child but gradually showed promise. Initially competing in the able-bodied category, she found that as the disease progressed, fast movement and maintaining stamina became challenging. In 2026, BPTT recognised her potential in the para category and conducted classification. As a result, Hurd was classified as class 9 – for standing athletes with the lowest level of impairment, requiring relatively flexible movement and ball handling. Hurd stated: "Para table tennis is completely different from able-bodied table tennis. The pace is a bit slower, but you have to place the ball much better. Every opponent has a different level of disability, so tactics must change constantly." This comment clearly reflects the challenge she is facing. In para sport, it is not just about physicality and technique, but also adapting to each class of opponent. Her background in able-bodied table tennis gives her a solid technical foundation, but switching to para requires a comprehensive change in her approach to matches. Her debut season produced remarkable highlights. She won medals at three consecutive international events, a rare feat for a newcomer, drawing attention from experts. Among those, the victory over Alexa Szvitacs – world and European champion – was a significant milestone, showing Hurd possesses the class of a top athlete. Szvitacs is not an easy opponent, and defeating her in an international tournament is a strong signal of Hurd's competitiveness. However, Hurd also faced heartbreaking losses. She lost to Brazilian Danielle Rauen in the fifth set, along with several other narrow defeats in deciding sets. These frequent fifth-set losses could indicate a psychological weakness or difficulty handling pressure, but it is important to remember that this is her first season on the international circuit. With limited experience, such matches are valuable lessons rather than inherent flaws. Another notable point is BPTT's rapid promotion of Hurd from the Pathway Squad to the Performance Squad – a clear recognition of her ability. Interim Performance Director Shaun Marples did not hesitate to praise her: "Lowri has had a fantastic debut season. She was thrown in at the deep end right from the start, which shows incredible nerve. Beating a world champion in her first season is testament to her huge potential." Marples also highlighted Hurd's capabilities in women's singles, women's doubles and mixed doubles, offering more tactical options for the GB team in the future. Strategically, Hurd will move to Sheffield to train at the English Institute of Sport, a hub for the country's elite athletes. She also begins university this month. Balancing education and training is a significant challenge, but it shows BPTT's serious investment in Hurd as a long-term asset. Looking at the competitive landscape in women's class 9, China is a powerhouse, along with Brazil through Danielle Rauen. Hurd was drawn in the same group as the top Chinese player and Rauen in recent tournaments, indicating she is not being protected in easy draws. This is a deliberate "trial by fire" approach by BPTT to accelerate Hurd's experience. If she can overcome these top players early in her career, she will make a significant professional leap. Para classification is also a critical issue. Hurd was classified in Spain with a very positive outcome, giving her confidence to compete in class 9 without fear of reclassification in the near future. However, as with any para athlete, the risk of classification review always exists. If that happens, her entire training and competition plan would be affected. Therefore, maintaining classification stability is a top priority. Medical factors also need attention. Myhre syndrome is progressive and affects multiple systems. Although Hurd is playing well, specialists must closely monitor her training load and prevent injuries. Hurd's success is not only due to talent but also to professional medical and physical support, which a centre like Sheffield can provide. Looking ahead, Hurd could become a key player for Great Britain at the next Paralympics. At 18, she has ample time to develop. If she continues her current trajectory, appearing at Paralympic Games is well within reach. However, the road ahead is long and challenging. Competition from China, Brazil and Europe is fierce, and her medical condition remains an unknown. The story of Lowri Hurd is not just about a rising young talent. It is a story of overcoming oneself, of adaptability and of courage to step out of her comfort zone. From a girl playing table tennis for fun, Hurd has transformed herself into a top athlete, inspiring many in similar circumstances. With federation backing and a steely spirit, Lowri Hurd is writing a real fairy tale, and the world of para table tennis should watch out for even more explosive performances from her in the future.