“I’m PROUD of ME”
Through tears, Holly Robinson representing Aotearoa/ New Zealand said, “I’m proud of me” during an interview following her sixth placing in the Javelin at the Paris Paralympic Games. Her words beautifully summed up the attitude of other competitors at these games that finished a few days ago.
Interestingly, I also noticed an absence of strutting, preening and posturing as seen at the recent Olympic Games. You could see and sense a different, kinder, happier spirit and atmosphere - still just as competitive but egos in check as humility ruled.
I loved the way the cameras stayed on the last place getter until they finished. Matthew Britz a kiwi competitor in the Table tennis commented, “I am walking amongst our people.” He added, “No one judges us” and it was a bit of an ‘awhhh’ moment as we witnessed the longest hug ever between Danielle Aitchison (NZ) and Shi Yiting the Chinese winner of the 100 metre final.
New PB’s were achieved and world records set. Yet, winning isn’t always about coming first.
POINTS TO PONDER
The deep stamina, resilience and drive seen as these athletes deal with what life throws at them, let alone in their chosen sport, is admirable.
The athletes, their support crews, families and friends don’t expect or want sympathy or hand outs. They are role models for us.
To quote from the NZ Herald, ‘The Paralympics show the value of inclusion in sport.’ Indeed, in life.
The deep stamina, resilience and drive seen as these athletes deal with what life throws at them, let alone in their chosen sport, is admirable.
The athletes, their support crews, families and friends don’t expect or want sympathy or hand outs. They are role models for us.
To quote from the NZ Herald, ‘The Paralympics show the value of inclusion in sport.’ Indeed, in life.
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