By Mariam Samuel
The City of Light, Paris, is poised to host the 2024 Paralympic Games, a global event that promises to be not just a competition, but a celebration of resilience, determination, and the unyielding spirit of athletes with disabilities. From August 28 to September 8, 2024, the world will converge on this historic city to witness the extraordinary feats of over 4,400 athletes from around 180 countries.
The word “Paralympic” derives from the Greek preposition “para” (beside or alongside) and the word “Olympic”.
Its meaning is that Paralympics are the parallel Games to the Olympics and illustrates how the two movements exist side-by-side.
Paris: A City of Accessibility and Inclusion
Paris 2024 is being heralded as the most inclusive Paralympic Games ever. The city has undergone extensive renovations to ensure that venues, transportation, and public spaces are accessible to all. From the cobblestone streets to the iconic landmarks, Paris is striving to make every corner of the city accessible, reinforcing the message that the Games are for everyone. The competition venues, including the newly renovated Stade de France and the state-of-the-art aquatic center in Saint-Denis, have been equipped with the latest accessibility features. This commitment extends beyond the physical, as the city has also introduced a range of services to assist those with visual, auditory, and cognitive impairments, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the Games.
A Record Breaking Event
The 2024 Paralympics are set to break records in more ways than one. Not only is it expected to be the largest in terms of participation, but it will also feature a record number of sports. With the addition of para-taekwondo and para-badminton to the programme, athletes will compete in 23 sports across 549 events.
These Games are also significant for the representation of women. For the first time in Paralympic history, the event will have a nearly equal number of male and female athletes, underscoring the ongoing commitment to gender equality in sports.
Athletes to Watch
The Paralympic Games are a showcase of extraordinary talent, and Paris 2024 will be no exception. Among the athletes to watch is Dutch wheelchair tennis star Diede de Groot, who has dominated the sport and is expected to defend her gold medals in both singles and doubles. In swimming, Italy’s Carlotta Gilli, a multi-medal winner, will be looking to add to her impressive haul of golds.
On the track, all eyes will be on T64 sprinter Jonnie Peacock from Great Britain, who is aiming for his third consecutive gold in the 100 meters. In para-cycling, Australia’s Emily Petricola, who won multiple gold medals in Tokyo, will be looking to continue her reign.
Beyond Sports: A Cultural Celebration
The Paralympic Games in Paris are more than just a sporting event; they are a cultural celebration. The Organizing Committee has planned a series of cultural events and exhibitions across the city, showcasing the art, music, and history of Paralympic athletes. The “Art of the Possible” exhibition at the Louvre will feature works created by artists with disabilities, while street performances and concerts will bring the city to life.
These events aim to challenge perceptions of disability and highlight the contributions of people with disabilities to society, not just in sports but in all areas of life.
Legacy of the Games
Paris 2024 is not just about the here and now; it’s about creating a lasting legacy. The Games are expected to have a profound impact on how people with disabilities are perceived in France and around the world. The focus on accessibility will continue long after the Games, with many of the improvements made to the city’s infrastructure set to benefit Parisians and visitors for years to come.
The Games will also inspire a new generation of athletes. The Paralympics have always been a platform for showcasing the power of sports to change lives, and Paris 2024 will undoubtedly continue this tradition, inspiring young people with disabilities to pursue their dreams, whether on the field of play or beyond.
Conclusion
As Paris hosts the world, the 2024 Paralympic Games are shaping up to be a landmark event, not just in the history of sports, but in the broader narrative of inclusion and accessibility. With its rich history, commitment to innovation, and unparalleled passion for sport, Paris is set to deliver a Paralympic Games that will be remembered for generations to come.
