Viktorija Senkute Secures Lithuania's First Paris Olympics Medal, Inspires Many

A former University of Central Florida rower, Viktorija Senkute, who has epilepsy, secured Lithuania's first medal at the Paris Olympics. She won a bronze medal in the women's singles class on Saturday. This achievement marks the first medal for any Baltic country at the 2024 Paris Games.

"This is insane, I still feel like I'm dreaming," Senkute said. "It's a very big day for Lithuania, for all Baltic countries and for UCF. Everybody from UCF was watching and cheering, everybody from Lithuania. This unites so many countries, so many people."

Inspiration for People with Epilepsy

Senkute hopes her success will inspire others with epilepsy to pursue their dreams. "People who have epilepsy are normal, regular people and they win Olympic medals. So I really hope that this will be a motivation for everyone who at some point people didn't believe in them," she said.

Diagnosed with epilepsy at 15, Senkute manages her condition with daily medication. "I take medication every morning and afternoon, but it's just routine discipline," she explained. "I'm just taking it with my vitamins, so I don't even notice. It's really a part of my life, but it gives no limitations."

Achievements at UCF

During her time at UCF from 2015-18, Senkute was part of the rowing team that won four American Athletic Conference championships. Her Olympic success has brought pride not only to Lithuania but also to her alma mater.

"It's not a limitation at all," she emphasized about her condition. "I kept doing what I want, what I love. And this being rowing. And this led to fulfilling my dreams."

Senkute's story is a testament to overcoming challenges and achieving greatness despite medical conditions. Her journey from a college rower to an Olympic medallist serves as an inspiration to many.

Her victory is celebrated by many, uniting people from different regions and backgrounds in support of her remarkable achievement.