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Opinion | Paris Games and philanthropy show power of the human spirit
The new norm of navigating good and bad news simultaneously reminds us that what truly matters is how we choose to respond
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The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games exceeded the high expectations set by the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. More than 4,000 athletes competed in 549 medal events across 22 sports. The Games showcased the remarkable talents of athletes with disabilities set against a backdrop of iconic Parisian landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Château de Versailles and the Grand Palais.
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The Paralympic Games are immensely important as a global celebration of ability, resilience and inclusion. Established to provide these athletes with a platform to showcase their extraordinary talents to a worldwide audience, the Paralympics challenge societal perceptions of disability and promote the idea that physical limitations do not define a person’s potential.
The Games inspire millions by demonstrating the fantastic achievements of athletes overcoming immense personal challenges. It highlights their exceptional skills, and their stories resonate deeply among participants and spectators, fostering community and belonging.
China led the Paralympics medal table with 94 gold, 76 silver and 50 bronze medals. Meanwhile, Hong Kong athletes achieved three gold medals, four silver medals and one bronze medal. Our Paralympians outperformed our Olympians, ranking five places higher in the overall medals table. Both groups of athletes continue to bring immense pride to the city.
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However, for every athlete participating, the real reward of competition lies in the experience, not the result. This highlights the profound personal growth and camaraderie that come from overcoming challenges and sharing in the journey together.
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