Athletes with physical disabilities celebrated the opening of 2016 Paralympics with inspiring performances, an extreme wheelchair speeding down a ramp to somersault in the air, while others joined a samba circle. Delegations entered the stadium carrying puzzle pieces. Together, 1,600 pieces assembled to represent a human heart in celebration of the theme. “The heart knows no limits. Everybody has a heart.”
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| [Source: theglobeandmail.com] |
The president of the IOC, Philip Craven, who lost use of his legs due to a fall, likened the challenges overcome by paralympians to recent economic challenges facing Brazilians. Craven said, "In a country which has faced major challenges of late, Paralympians will switch your focus from perceived limitations — to a world full of possibility and endless opportunity."
Brazilian Paralympic swimmer Clodoaldo Silva lit the Paralympic cauldron after overcoming many steps, which transformed into ramps. An enthusiastic crowd embraced the notion of life without limits.
Visit USParalympics.org/Rio2016 for more information on Team USA at the Paralympic Games, including athlete bios, schedule and live streaming. Follow the U.S. Paralympic team on social media on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
[Sources: USParalympics.org, AP Wire]
