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TACHOV, Czech Republic — Teenage swimmer David Kratochvil headlines Czech medal hopefuls at the upcoming Paralympics in Paris. The 16-year-old Kratochvil used to play hockey until losing his sight about 10 years ago. A decision to switch from the ice rink to the swimming pool proved the right one. He set world records in 50 and 200 meter backstroke last year and went on to win his first gold at the world championships in the 400-meter freestyle race. He is currently training for six events at the Aug. 28-Sept. 8 Paralympic Games. His parents are his "tappers." They let him know when to turn or finish a race by tapping his head or back. Kratochvil says "You have to trust your tappers."
