Every two years, the world witnesses an impressive gathering of athletes that goes beyond the ordinary realm of sports. The Paralympic Games—an event that celebrates the prowess, resilience, and extraordinary abilities of athletes with disabilities—not only reflects an evolution in the sports industry but also in societal perceptions towards disability. As we approach the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, set to commence on August 24, it’s an opportune time to delve into the rich history of the Paralympics and uncover the stories behind this remarkable event.
What Are the Paralympic Games?
The term “Paralympic” refers to the series of international sporting events for athletes with physical disabilities, drawing its essence from the word “parallel,” symbolizing the games being staged alongside the Olympic Games. The inception of these games can be traced back to a pioneering figure—Ludwig Guttmann, a German-Jewish neurologist. After fleeing to the UK before World War II, he organized the first Stoke Mandeville Games in 1948 for World War II veterans with spinal cord injuries, coinciding with the London Olympics. This event laid the groundwork for what would evolve into the modern Paralympics.
The first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960, just six days after the conclusion of the Olympic Games. Today, the Paralympics have grown immensely, welcoming approximately 4,400 athletes from around 170 countries, making it one of the largest sporting events in the world next to the Olympics.
The Exciting Upcoming Event: Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games
The stage is set, and excitement is in the air as Tokyo prepares to host the Paralympic Games for the second time, having previously done so in 1964. This year, the games will take place from August 24 to September 5, featuring 539 events across 22 sports. Despite a postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the spirit and branding of the 2020 games remain intact, reflecting the resilience of both the athletes and the organizers.
New and Exciting Sports
One of the highlights of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics is the introduction of badminton and taekwondo, marking their inaugural appearance in the event. In total, 72 athletes will compete in six taekwondo events, while 90 athletes will showcase their skills in 14 badminton events, representing 28 countries.
Furthermore, nations such as Bhutan and Guyana will make their debut, sending their athletes to compete on this prestigious platform. This expansion reflects the growing inclusivity and global reach of the Paralympic Movement, emphasizing that talent knows no borders.
Eligibility and Classifications for Athletes
To compete in the Paralympics, athletes must meet specific eligibility criteria, classified according to one of ten categories of disabilities which include loss of muscle strength, limb deficiency, impaired range of movement, and visual impairments. Through a rigorous assessment known as “athlete classification,” the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) ensures fairness by grouping athletes based on their level of disability, which fosters equitable competition.
This classification process exemplifies the commitment to inclusivity and ensures that each athlete competes on a fair playing field, eliminating any advantages that might arise from differing disability levels.
Unique Sports and Rules in the Paralympic Arena
The Paralympics feature sports that are uniquely tailored for athletes with disabilities. For instance, boccia—a precision ball sport similar to bocce—was designed specifically for athletes with severe physical disabilities and is played by individuals using wheelchairs. Another unique sport is goalball, a team game intended for visually impaired players, where teams strive to throw a ball with bells into the opposing team’s goal while blindfolded.
Certain rules are adapted for inclusivity; for example, visually impaired athletes are allowed to compete with guides, who help navigate the course, especially in events like para-cycling and athletics. This collaboration highlights the spirit of teamwork and support inherent in the Paralympic Movement.
Additionally, during events like judo, when visually impaired athletes compete, the audience is required to maintain silence to ensure that athletes can hear their opponents and adequately focus. Such thoughtful adaptations are not merely rules; they are significant gestures of respect and inclusivity within this vibrant sporting community.
Achievements and Participation Over the Years
The Paralympic Games have witnessed remarkable achievements from athletes across the globe. At the Rio 2016 Paralympics, China topped the medal table with an astounding 107 gold, followed by Great Britain, Ukraine, the USA, and Australia. In Southeast Asia, Thailand displayed exceptional prowess, securing a total of 18 medals, while Vietnam had a commendable showing with 4 medals.
This year, the Vietnamese team will be competing with 15 members, including athletes in three sports: weightlifting, swimming, and athletics. This participation symbolizes national pride and collective aspiration as they aim to make their mark on the world stage once again.
The Inspirational Athletes of the Paralympics
Behind every medal and record lies the extraordinary stories of determination and perseverance from individual athletes. Among the athletes over 50 participating, figures such as 63-year-old wheelchair racer Terry Hayes and 56-year-old archer Lia Coryell illustrate that age is merely a number, and extraordinary achievement knows no limits.
Conversely, younger athletes are equally inspiring, showcasing early talent. For instance, the team includes nine athletes under 18, including two 16-year-old competitors. These diverse stories of athletes, both young and mature, encapsulate the essence of the Paralympic Games.
Embracing the Future of the Paralympic Movement
As we gear up for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, it is essential to reflect on the core principles that drive this global event: inspiration, determination, and inclusivity. The Paralympics not only celebrate the athletic achievements of individuals but also challenge societal perceptions and foster a more inclusive world.
With the ongoing advancements in accessibility, representation, and dialogue around disability, the future of the Paralympic Games is bright. As more nations participate and new sports are introduced, we can anticipate an even greater emphasis on empowerment and the celebration of difference.
Conclusion
The Paralympic Games are more than just a sporting event; they are a monumental celebration of human potential and resilience. As we count down to the opening ceremony on August 24, let’s cheer for every athlete competing, celebrating their grit and determination. This year, as athletes take center stage, they remind us all that there are no limits to the human spirit, and every challenge can be transformed into an inspiring journey.
Let the games begin!
