As the world eagerly anticipates the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, set to kick off on August 24, it’s the perfect moment to delve into the significance and unique aspects of this prestigious event. The Paralympics stand as a symbol of resilience and athletic excellence, showcasing the extraordinary capabilities of athletes with disabilities. But what truly sets the Paralympic Games apart from the Olympics? Let’s explore the fascinating journey of the Paralympics, discover the qualification criteria for athletes, learn about new sports making their debut, and understand why these games are not to be missed.
A Brief History of the Paralympic Games
The roots of the modern Paralympic Games can be traced back to 1948 when Ludwig Guttmann, a German-Jewish neurologist who fled to England just before World War II, established the Stoke Mandeville Games. This event was designed for British WWII veterans with spinal cord injuries, coinciding with the 1948 London Olympics. By 1952, Dutch veterans joined the competition, marking the inception of international competition for athletes with disabilities. The first official Paralympic Games took place in Rome in 1960, just six days after the Olympic Games concluded. Today, the Paralympics rank as the world’s second-largest sporting event, attracting nearly 4,400 athletes from approximately 170 countries.
When and Where Will the Paralympic Games Be Held?
The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will take place from August 24 to September 5, 2021. This marks Tokyo’s second time hosting the Paralympics, previously held in 1964. With a total of 539 events across 22 sports, this year’s games are anticipated to showcase incredible talent and determination. As with the preceding Olympics, the Paralympics will feature the emblem and branding for 2020, despite the year-long delay.
Who Can Compete in the Paralympics?
To qualify for the Paralympics, athletes must fit into one of ten eligibility categories related to various disabilities, which include:
- Muscle strength impairment (such as spinal bifida)
- Passive range of movement impairment
- Limb deficiencies (congenital or amputations)
- Short stature
- Hypertonia (increased muscle tightness from central nervous system injury)
- Ataxia (lack of voluntary coordination)
- Athetosis (uncontrolled movements)
- Visual impairment
- Intellectual impairment
Athletes undergo a process known as “classification,” where they are grouped according to the level of their disability, ensuring fair competition. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) oversees this classification process, comparing athlete classifications to parameters such as age, gender, and weight.
What New Sports Will Be Featured?
This year, badminton and taekwondo will make their debut in the Paralympics, replacing rowing and seven-a-side football. A total of 90 competitors from 28 countries will participate in badminton across 14 events, while 72 athletes will compete in six taekwondo events, marking a new chapter in Paralympic history.
Are There Any Unique Sports in the Paralympics?
Yes, there are two sports that are exclusive to the Paralympics: boccia and goalball. Boccia, which resembles bocce, is designed for athletes with severe cerebral palsy and is played by those who use wheelchairs. The sport involves players aiming to throw balls as close to a target ball as possible. On the other hand, goalball is a team sport where visually impaired athletes throw a ball with bells into the opposing team’s goal while wearing blindfolds, ensuring a level playing field for all competitors.
Additional Adaptations in Rules
Certain adaptations exist for athletes with disabilities. For example, visually impaired athletes are paired with sighted guides who assist them during events. Since the London 2012 Paralympics, these guides are eligible for medals, reflecting their critical role in the athletes’ success. In swimming events, “tappers” use long poles to signal blind swimmers when it’s time to turn at the end of the pool. Spectator behavior may also adjust, as crowds must remain silent for sports where sound plays a crucial role, such as goalball and blind football.
Athletes Over 50 at the Paralympics
You might be surprised to learn that many athletes over the age of 50 compete at the Paralympics. For instance, among Team USA, notable athletes include archers Lia Coryell (56) and Andre Shelby (52), cyclists Alicia Dana (52) and Jill Walsh (58), and many more, showcasing the ability and passion present in athletes of all ages. Conversely, the team also boasts nine athletes under the age of 18, further exemplifying the extensive range of talent showcased at the event.
Past Records in the Paralympic Games
At the 2016 Paralympics, China topped the medal tally with 107 golds, followed by Great Britain (64), Ukraine (41), and the USA (40). In Southeast Asia, Thailand performed outstandingly, finishing 23rd overall with a total of 18 medals, while Vietnam achieved a proud representation with one gold, one silver, and two bronze medals. This year’s Vietnamese delegation features 15 members, including three coaches, five staff, and seven athletes competing in weightlifting, swimming, and athletics.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Diversity and Athleticism
The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games promise to be a spectacular display of strength, perseverance, and the unyielding human spirit. With new sports, record-breaking athletes, and inspiring stories of triumph, these Games will surely capture the hearts of millions. As we prepare to witness this extraordinary event, let’s celebrate the incredible journeys of the athletes and the importance of inclusivity in sports. The Paralympics not only offer thrilling competitions but also highlight the extraordinary achievements of those who overcome challenges to showcase their sporting prowess on a global stage. Don’t miss the chance to be inspired—tune in and support the remarkable athletes of the Paralympic Games!
