WESTPORT — A 23-year-old swimmer who competes with the Water Rats team at the Westport Weston Family YMCA will compete in his second Paralympics games this year in Paris.

Matthew Torres, who has been a member of the local swim team since he was 13, won a bronze medal in the 400-meter freestyle at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and is poised to compete for Team USA in the same event at the 2024 Paris games, which run Aug. 28 through Sept. 8.

“I’m incredibly excited to compete in Paris,” Torres, an Ansonia resident, said in a statement issued by the YMCA. “The 400-meter is my primary and strongest event, and I have the stamina for it. I definitely want to medal in the 400 in Paris.”

In addition to the Paralympics, Torres will represent Team USA at the Open Water Cup competition in Sardinia, Italy, on Sept. 21.

Born with amniotic band syndrome, Torres has overcome physical challenges throughout his life — including a serious health issue last year — to achieve the status of “an elite Paralympic athlete,” according to the YMCA. His remarkable record includes “setting a world record in the 1500-meter freestyle and earning multiple medals in national and international competitions.”

Torres was inspired to become a competitive swimmer by the record-setting achievements of Michael Phelps, who he was able to meet in 2019.

“Watching Matthew excel in the sport has been incredibly rewarding,” said Ellen Johnston, his coach at the YMCA. “His work ethic and commitment have been evident since he joined our team. Matthew embodies the spirit and purpose of the Paralympics.”

Gil and Martha Torres, the swimmer’s parents, said in the Y’s statement, “Matthew’s achievements are truly amazing, and we are constantly in awe of his perseverance and talent.

“He has always believed that the only limits are those he sets for himself.”

They will be joined by Torres’s grandmother in Paris to cheer him on.