Valerie Grand Maison of Canada (center) celebrates with compatriots Kirby Cote (left) and Chelsey Gotell after they finished first, second and third respectively in the women's 100m butterfly S13 final at the Water Cube, September 8, 2008. [China Daily]

American swimmer Jessica Long enjoyed a promising start to the Beijing Paralympics on Sunday, sweeping the S8 category women's 100m butterfly gold away from opponents.

Determined to emulate compatriot Michael Phelps, the three-time Athens Paralympic gold medalist brought herself one medal closer to reaching her seven-medal count ambition for the Beijing Games.

Jessica Long of the United States smiles after she captures the championship of the women's 100m butterfly S8. [China Daily]

"I was so excited to win this gold, which makes me more confident for the following events," the 16-year-old told The Paralympian just moments after narrowly defeating teammate Amanda Everlove. "It is going to be tough competing in six other events, but I know I can do it."

The 15-time world record holder was born with an abnormality in her lower legs and spent her infancy at an orphanage in eastern Russia before an American couple adopted her at 13 months. Five months later, she had her legs amputated in the US.

Long showed a keen talent for gymnastics in her six years of training. But due to a constant strain on her knees and prosthetic legs, she was forced to switch to swimming, a non-impact sport. It didn't take long for the swimming legend to rise to stardom.

After only two years of training, Long experienced instant success in Athens, when she won three gold medals at the age of 12, the youngest member of the American delegation. Just two years later at the 2006 World Swimming Championships in South Africa, she swept nine gold medals and set five world records.

Long believes her condition is an opportunity rather than a misfortune.

"I choose to be this way, even if there are other options," she wrote on her blog. "I've met so many amazing people on the Paralympic swimming team. Compared to them, I don't think my disability is that big."

Long, who draws inspiration from the other athletes competing in the Paralympics, added that she hopes to do the same for others with her performance at the Games.

"I hope to inspire everyone at this Paralympics," said Long.

Miranda Uhl of the US celebrates winning the women's 200m individual medley SM6 final at the Water Cube, September 8, 2008. [China Daily]