The Sporting Spirit. Paralympic Games

The Paralympic Games are the most prestigious competitions for athletes with various disabilities. The Games have their own unique history, symbols and significance. The idea of this world event is to prove that sport is an important process and an integral part of rehabilitation for patients with injuries, who need to be  treated the same way as non-disabled  athletes.

Traditionally the Paralympics follow the Olympic Games and since 1988 has taken place on the same sports facilities. The summer Paralympic Games started in 1960 and the winter Paralympics originated in 1976. The idea of this sports event belongs to Sir Ludwig Guttman, a British neurologist.  He was the first to suggest overcoming stereotypes about people with disabilities and encouraging them to take part in exercises. Nowadays we all share the opinion that sport for people with disabilities creates conditions for being successful in life. It restores mental health, gives a chance to enjoy a full life and strengthens physical abilities that are necessary to cope with a wheelchair.

The first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960.  400 athletes in wheelchairs from 23 countries competed in the Games. It was the starting point for the rapid development of the Paralympic movement in the world.

“Spirit in Motion” is the motto of the Paralympic movement. The symbol of the Paralympics includes three colours: red, blue and green, which are the most popular colours found in the flags of different nations. The colours are made in the shape of an asymmetrical crescent which was specially created for the Paralympic movement. The Latin name given to it is Agito which means "I move".

From the 7t to the 18th of  September, 2016 the Summer Paralympics  took place in Rio de Janeiro. About 4500 sportsmen participated to win gold, silver or bronze medals. I believe all of them are champions even without medals as they win a battle over themselves when overcoming difficulties and hardships and prove that their will and courage are stronger than life obstacles.

I am happy to say that I was lucky to work as a volunteer at the Winter Paralympics - 2014 in Sochi, Russia. Of course, it can’t be compared to the Olympic Games (where I volunteered as well) as far as the number of participants and spectators is considered but the spirit is absolutely awesome. I was amazed to see so many people with disabilities gathered at one place. They are absolutely adequate people who live active lives and are even happier than people without any  health problems. They deserve admiration. The sports facilities prepared for the Olympic Games were easily transformed for the needs of the Paralympic sportsmen. There were a lot of international volunteers willing to help the handicapped and I read a great desire to win in the eyes of the sportsmen. Behind the Games and competitions I saw them experiencing the same feelings and emotions as we do. I realized that these people do a great job to teach others to be grateful for the gift they have from God.

Victor Glodev

 

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