The 2024 Paris Paralympics, which concluded on September 8th, saw numerous countries celebrating historic performances and record-breaking medal counts. Costa Rican paralympian Sherman Guity emerged as a standout athlete, winning two gold medals and setting new paralympic records in both the 100m and 200m T64 categories. Guity’s performance highlights the exceptional talent showcased at these games across various disciplines.Several countries marked their best-ever Paralympic performances. Brazil secured a record 89 medals, including 25 golds, surpassing their previous best of 72 medals in Tokyo 2020. Turkey also broke their national record, winning 28 medals (6 gold, 10 silver, and 12 bronze) in 10 different sports. India continued its upward trajectory in para-sports, securing 29 medals (7 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze), significantly improving upon their previous record of 19 medals from Tokyo 2020.The games also highlighted the growing competitiveness in para-sports across different regions. Algeria dominated the Arab and African para-sports scene, securing 11 medals (6 gold and 5 bronze) and ranking first in these regions. The Turkic Council countries collectively won 74 medals, with Uzbekistan leading the group with 26 medals. Portugal achieved one of its best results in Paralympic history with 7 medals and 18 diplomas.As the Paralympic flame was extinguished in Paris, the event’s impact extends beyond the medal tallies. Andrew Parsons, president of the International Paralympic Committee, described these Paralympics as ‘a revolution in inclusivity’. However, challenges remain, as highlighted by Japanese officials who noted the ongoing issues of funding and facility access for para-athletes.The success of the Paris Paralympics has sparked optimism for the future of para-sports. As the focus shifts to Los Angeles 2028, there’s hope that the spirit of determination and excellence displayed in Paris will continue to inspire and motivate people worldwide, while also addressing the ongoing challenges faced by para-athletes and para-sports organizations.
Key points
- Costa Rica’s Sherman Guity won two gold medals with Paralympic records in T64 sprinting events.
- Multiple countries, including Brazil, Turkey, and India, achieved their best-ever Paralympic performances.
- Algeria dominated the Arab and African para-sports scene, ranking first in these regions.
- The Paralympics were described as ‘a revolution in inclusivity’ by the IPC president, though challenges in funding and access for para-athletes persist.
