Blog #2

Before reviewing this week's content, I directly connected “para” to paralysis or paraplegic. I assumed the Paralympic Games got their name because they were originally designed exclusively for athletes with disabilities, such as mobility impairments or spinal cord injuries. I have never really watched much of the Olympics, so hearing that there was a Paralympics was news to me. Based on this assumption, I also thought of the Paralympics as a separate event rather than as something intentionally created to coexist with the Olympics. It was interesting to learn more about the different events that happen during the Paralympics and how hard these Olympians work. After reviewing this week’s content, I also discovered that the word “para” is derived from the Greek word meaning "beside" or "alongside.” This helps explain exactly what the Paralympics are, an event that takes place alongside the Olympics rather than beneath them. There is an emphasis on equality and respect for athletes with impairments, giving the word “para” even deeper meaning. The athletes are defined by their athletic ability, commitment, and top-tier competition, not their shortcomings. 

Ludwig Guttmann is the reason why there are Paralympics today. I thought it was inspiring that Ludwig Guttmann “restored hope and a sense of purpose to the young people whose minds and bodies had been damaged by their injuries” (Historic England, 2026). An injury should never stop someone from pursuing their dreams. Physical activity became very important in the rehabilitation process. Guttmann helped these people be seen beyond their injuries. The parallel games began on the same day as the opening of the 1948 London Olympic Games. Guttmann created a team and had them compete in an archery demonstration. This team was made up of 14 men and 2 women. That day, history was made. This team became the very first team of Paralympians. This marked the beginning of the parallel games. Over the years, Guttmann continued to organize more teams and help more people join the Paralympics. Some Paralympic sports included basketball, ping-pong, fencing, and boccia. Today, there are many different sports included within the Paralympics. The Paralympics are so successful that they are the second biggest sporting event in the world. “The games are no longer just about the rehabilitation of paralysed people: they are a great international sporting event in their own right” (Historic England, 2026). These athletes deserve to be recognized for their dedication to these games. It is inspiring to see. In the future, I will definitely be watching the Paralympics.