Lovers of South Africa and lovers of sports, your time to shine has come as French president Emmanuel Macron officially declared the Paralympics underway during the opening ceremony which took place at Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées.
The ceremony was the first of it’s kind and certainly did not the traditional concept that we are used to. “While the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony will be the first of its kind, its monumental and popular concept is, for me, first and foremost a magnificent source of inspiration. From the Champs-Elysées to Place de la Concorde, I look forward to creating this spectacle that will transform the heart of Paris, with performances that have never been seen before. A spectacle that will showcase the Paralympic athletes and the values that they embody. A spectacle that will unite spectators and television audiences worldwide around the unique spirit of the Paralympic Games,” explains Thomas Jolly, who is the Artistic Director for the Ceremonies.
With 32 athletes in top shape and ready to compete at the highest level, team South Africa was present at the ceremony, bringing the good vibes as they have been known to, led by sprint and long jump athlete Mpumelelo Mhlongo and swimmer Kat Swanepoel as the flag bearers.
Let The Games Begin!#TeamSA #ForMyCountry pic.twitter.com/b9yi5aBEPE
— Team South Africa (@OfficialTeamRSA) August 28, 2024
As expected, the games are off to a quick start with an action-packed schedule. We can expect to see Shaun Anderson competing in the first round of men’s archery, while Nathan Hendricks is hoping to make his mark in the 100m men’s butterfly heat. Karabo Morapedi and Elanza Jordaan will also be making their Boccia tournament debut.
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Also see: How South Africa shined at the Olympics this past week
