The Paralympics commenced with an unforgettable parade on the one-of-a-kind Champs-Elysees, including 184 international delegations. The Paralympic Games opened on Wednesday, August 28, and closing ceremonies occurred at the Stade de France on Sunday, September 8. This opening was unique because it was the first of its kind, was open to the public, and in collaboration with the International Paralympic Committee and French authorities, was entirely accessible in the event’s spirit. While many think that the “Para” in Paralympics stands for paraplegic, it’s actual translation it parallel or equal to the Olympics, describing its intention to be another opportunity and high stakes competition for worldwide athletes.
Over the two weeks, more than 4,000 athletes competed in 549 medal events. Popular events included wheelchair basketball, archery, and sitting volleyball. Overall, China dominated the Paralympics, winning a total of 220 medals. Great Britain came in second, and the U.S. came third with 30 medals and ten golds. Two Paralympic names you should know are Hunter Woodhall, three-time medalist in sprint events, All-American, and first-ever amputee to receive a D1 scholarship, and swimming legend Jessica Long, who debuted at age 12 in 2004 and this will be her sixth Paralympics.
The Paris committees and organizers were extra supportive and enthusiastic about the Paralympics this year, and the athletes were highly grateful for their response. Competing on behalf of Canada’s sitting volleyball team for the Paralympics, Allison Lang told Today that when she received the news, she made the team, “When I found out I made Team Canada’s Paralympic sitting volleyball team, I felt overwhelmed with emotions.” She describes how she never truly felt like she belonged and never imagined a moment she would feel so confident and proud of herself. Paralympians are incredible athletes with immense talent, dedication, and passion for their sports and countries.
The summer ended on a high with the 2024 Paris Olympic Games; the competitiveness, national pride, athleticism, fashion, and of course, the memes. The iconic village chocolate muffins, pommel horse guy, and infamous break dancer Ray Gun probably ended up on your For You page at one point or another. AP history teacher and tennis coach Mark Elman recalled that his favorite summer meme was the Australian breakdancer with zero points. While discussing the meme, Elman said, “To me, I am a little bit surprised, not so much that that’s a sport, but there are certain sports that I think, like squash and baseball and paddle tennis, that are not sports yet. So why breaking?”
This summer was an unforgettable Olympics, but equally spectacular were the Paralympics. Not only is the Paralympics a fun, patriotic watch, but it also inspires all people with disabilities to follow their dreams.
