The athletics Paralympics is a perfect example illustrating the power of people with disabilities, and their desire to overcome obstacles and continue with the improvements in the field of sports. Athletics has been featured in the Paralympic Games right from the first edition in 1960, and some of the games include track and field, and marathons among others. Now, let’s lean in and get to understand the beauty that is Paralympic athletics and what sets it apart.
A Brief History
Paralympics on the other hand were founded to offer disabled persons a chance to compete. Since the Paralympic games started, athletics has developed to be one of the most participated and specialized sports. Starting from the wheelchair racing and ending with club throw the competitions are divided to let the participants with different types of impairment compete as equally as possible.
Key Events and Classifications
Some of the events that make up para-athletics are- sprints, middle and long-distance races, relay races, high jump, long jump, shot-put, discus, and javelin. Categorization of the athletes involves proper categorization of the athletes according to their impairments to enhance the fairness of the competitions. Some of the classifications include categories on Visual impairments, intellectual impairments, Physical impairments, etc.
Notable Athletes
The Paralympics has been heralded by many great athletes who have impacted a lot on the games. Such Paralympic stars as Tatyana McFadden, a multiple gold medalist, and wheelchair racer, and Jason Smyth, known as the fastest Paralympian on the planet, are known all over the world. These accomplishments are not only the successes of these two individuals but millions of people around the globe are benefited from it.
The Road to Paris 2024
Therefore, as we plot our arrival at the Paralympics in Paris 2024, the expectation is already in the air. Of course, the Stade de France will host athletics events where spectacular performances and new records are expected. Contending athletes are in preparation at their best to display excellent performances at this mega event.
The Impact of Para-Athletics
Although most of the spectators focus on the number of medals and records, the para-athletics serve a significant function of helping remove discrimination and prejudices. As such, it seeks to change the community’s perception towards disabled individuals while showcasing that given an equal opportunity, the disabled athlete can perform wonders.
Conclusion
Paralympic Games is not only a sport but it’s a performance of the human spirit and the ability of a man to triumph over adversities. Watching and supporting these amazing people we feel within ourselves the desire for achievement and the potential hidden in each of us.
