100 Years of the
WEST SUBURBAN CONFERENCE

ATHLETES HONOR ROLL

JOHN REGISTER -- Oak-Park River Forest

A state champion hurdler, Register overcame the biggest obstacle of his life to once again stand on the victory stand.  John won the 300-meter low hurdles at the 1983 Illinois High School Association state track meet, placed fourth in the long jump, and earned a fifth place finish in the 110-meter high hurdles -- single-handedly leading the Huskies to a top ten team finish.  Register earned a scholarship to the University of Arkansas, where he was a four-time All-American in the NCAA long jump, 55-meter high hurdles and twice on the 4x400-meter relay.  After college John joined the U.S. Army, where he proudly served for six years, but still continued to train for a spot in the Olympic Games.  In 1994 a misstep over hurdle resulted in a dislocated left knee and a severed artery, ensuing in the amputation of his left leg above the knee.  John's determination and commitment allowed him to participate in the 1996 Paralympics Games in swimming, and returned to the track for the 2000 Paralympic Games, where Register secured the silver medal in the long jump.