Talk of the town : Paralympic Games 2024 : Indomitable athletes
【明報專訊】Imagine a stage where incredible athletes from around the world compete not just for medals but also for the sheer joy of pushing boundaries, breaking stereotypes, and showcasing the power of the human spirit. Here comes the Paralympic Games, a celebration of courage, determination, and triumph over adversity.
Origin of Paralympics
The Paralympic Games originated from the Stoke Mandeville Games held in 1948 in the United Kingdom. These games were specifically organized for World War II veterans with spinal cord injuries. The event grew into the official Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960, evolving into a global sporting event. It is regulated that once the city is selected as the host for the Olympic Games, it is required to also host the Paralympic Games. Therefore the Paralympic Games 2024 were held in Paris.
Sports in Paralympics
The Paralympic Games feature a wide range of sports designed to accommodate athletes with various disabilities. Some of the sports contested in the Paralympics include Para-cycling, Para-powerlifting, Para-badminton, wheelchair basketball and sitting volleyball. Each sport is adapted to accommodate different types of impairments, allowing athletes with diverse disabilities to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level.
Hong Kong in Paralympics
Hong Kong has participated in 14 Paralympic Games since 1972 and has won a total of 139 medals. This year, we sent a total of 23 athletes to compete in the Paris Paralympic Games across eight major events. Among them, five athletes are participated in the Paralympic Games for the first time.
Respecting the disabled
Individuals with disabilities encounter numerous challenges in both physical and mental aspects every day, yet they show their true grit and resilience. Respecting the disabled not only fosters empathy and understanding but also helps us build a more inclusive society.
■Grammar booster
True grit
A person with true grit has passion and perseverance.
E.g. Despite their physical constraints, the athletes showed their true grit in the Games.
■Gear up
(Answer on next text)
1. The first Paralympic Games were held in 1972. (True/False)
Fill in the blanks with the glossary below.
2. This article contains a thoroughly offensive ___________ of the disabled.
3. The new policies fail to ____________ people with disabilities.
■Glossary
stereotype (n) 刻板印象/成見
veteran (n) 老兵
accommodate (v) 為……提供方便
inclusive (adj) 包容的
(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view of rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)
[Smarties' Power English 第414期]
Grammar : Idioms about animals
【明報專訊】Pat : MoMo, how was my singing performance last night? MoMo :... 詳情
