Interesting things you need to know about 2024 Paralympic Games

Dear sports fans, the Olympics experience is not over yet! After the Paris 2024 Games, the Paralympics are set to take centre stage from Wednesday 28 August to Sunday 18 September in Paris, France.

The event brings together 4,500 athletes who will compete across 22 sports.

These games have become a global celebration of athleticism and determination, running alongside the Olympic Games since 1960.

Mozzart Sport gives you some intriguing facts that highlight the uniqueness and spirit of the Paralympics.

1. Origins and meaning of 'Paralympics'

The term "Paralympics" comes from the Greek word 'para,' meaning "next to." This reflects the idea that the Paralympic Games are meant to run parallel to the Olympics, emphasizing equality in sport. The first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960, featuring 400 athletes from 23 countries.

2. The paralympic symbol

The symbol of the Paralympic Games is composed of three colourful, curved shapes known as "agitos," which means "I move" in Latin. The agitos symbolize motion and the Paralympic spirit of overcoming challenges through sport.

3. Recognition for guides and pilots

Since the London 2012 Paralympics, guides and pilots who assist athletes with visual impairments have also been awarded medals. These guides play a crucial role in helping athletes navigate their events, but the athletes themselves must always cross the finish line before their guides to be eligible for victory.

A look at Kenya's representatives in Paris 2024 Paralympics

4. Unique rules in para-swimming

While prostheses are allowed in various Paralympic sports, para-swimming has a distinctive rule: no prostheses are permitted during competition. This ensures that all swimmers compete under the same conditions, relying solely on their physical abilities.

5. Wheelchair basketball's universal hoops

In wheelchair basketball, the hoop's height remains consistent with that of the Olympic Games at 3.05 meters (10 feet) above the ground. This demonstrates the incredible skill required to compete at the highest level, despite the challenges posed by playing in a wheelchair.

6. Sounds of the game in blind football and goalball

For visually impaired athletes, sports like blind football and goalball feature balls equipped with bells. These bells help athletes locate the ball through sound, allowing them to compete in fast-paced games by relying on their hearing and spatial awareness.

7. The opening ceremony and the scale of the games

The Paralympic Games continue to grow in scale and importance. This year's opening ceremony was held on Wednesday 28 August, with around 4,500 athletes set to compete across 22 different sports.