The Paralympian Is Centred on Beijing, Own Way, but Mostly Became a Lasting Memory for the 90,000 Spectators
THE Official Magazine of the International Paralympic Committee PARALYMPIAN ISSUE 2008 IPC No. Photo: © Prezioso 3 Photo: © 186 Paralympic records were broken in Athletics Closing Ceremony with “Letter to the Future” theme Lieven Coudenys Beijing Closes Games, Photo: © Over 30,000 volunteers guided spectators at Raising Bar in All Arenas the Games The Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games have now become an inspiring tions entered into the stadium at the very beginning of the ceremony, reference point for all athletes, officials, spectators, and just about giving them the opportunity to witness the entire performance. every person from around the world. From 6-17 September, the Chi- nese capital was host to what the President of the International Para- After well-received speeches and appearances from Sir Philip, the lympic Committee (IPC), Sir Philip Craven, deemed the greatest President of the Beijing 2008 Organizing Committee (BOCOG), Liu Games ever in his speech at the Closing Ceremony. The people of Qi, and the President of China, Hu Jintao, a short video followed China did deliver an unforgettable and well-organized sporting event which introduced spectators to the winners of the Whang Youn Dai in Beijing, and it did change standards. In effect, what this signi- Achievement Award, Said Gomez of Panama and Natalie Du Toit of fies today is the marking of a large growth spurt for the Paralympic South Africa. The award was presented by Dr. Whang and IPC Vice Movement. President Miguel Sagarra and recognized elite athletes who have exemplified an exceptional level of determination in overcoming ad- The Games saw about 4,000 athletes from a total of 147 differ- versity through sports and the Paralympic Games.
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