Sunday February 23rd 2014 marked the closing of the 2014 Olympics. Many medals were awarded, records broken, endings that shocked spectators, and victories that were well-deserved. Between snowboarding, skiing, figure skating, curling, speed skating, ice hockey and many more the sporting events were ones we cannot forget.
Despite the fact that many athletes returned to their respective countries for a warm welcome home and some much needed rest, there are a group of athletes just getting ready to make their Olympic appearance: the Paralympians.
March 7th marks the start of the Sochi 2014 Winter Paralympics where extraordinary athletes come together to showcase their skill from 35 different countries. The Paralympics, which occur after the summer and winter games, have been taking place for over 50 years. At first they were introduced after World War II to assist the many war veterans and civilains who had been injured during wartime, but they have evolved to encompass much more over the years. The performances and incredible stories of the athletes teach us the value of acceptance, appreciation and admiration for people with an impairment. The Paralympic Movement is able to help contribute to the development of a more equal society with respect and equal opportunities for all individuals through social awareness.
The Winter Paralympics consist of several sports for both men and women. These five sports include: Alpine Skiing & Snowbard, Biathlon and Cross-Country Skiing, Ice Sledge Hockey, Wheelchair Curling. There are 72 medal events because each sport has several disciplines.
This year, the United States will be bringing a team of 80 athletes who hope to bring home several members. Regardless of whether or not one of these athletes get a medal, they are all heroes that should be honored and recognized for their athletic talent just like all the other Sochi Olympians.
Best of luck to all participating in the 2014 Paralympics in Sochi!
For a chance to watch some of the sports, NBC Sports Network and NBC will be airing coverage of the events throughout the week.
Article Sources:
http://www.paralympic.org/sochi-2014
http://www.paralympic.org/the-ipc/about-us
Photo Sources:
http://www.teamusa.org/~/media/USA_Paralympics/Images/Alpine%20skiing/Calhoun_Heath_1_800x375.jpg
http://tarakusumoto.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/torino-three-tracker.jpg