Yu Yutan, a player from China's soccer team for the visually impaired, shared his enthusiasm about participating in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, having had the opportunity to visit the stadium close to the Eiffel Tower. He expressed eagerness for the competition, highlighting the memorable experience he anticipates on the beautifully prepared pitch.

The Paralympic Games kicked off on Wednesday evening with a vibrant opening ceremony at Place de la Concorde, attended by around 270 members of the Chinese delegation. Flag bearers for Team China included wheelchair fencer Gu Haiyan and weightlifter Qi Yongkai, signifying a proud moment for the team as they prepare for the events running until September 8.

In total, China's Paralympic squad consists of 284 athletes set to compete in 19 sports with a significant number of 302 events. The commitment to meticulous preparation is evident as the team is poised to make a strong showing in the competition.

Wei Wei, part of the support staff for the Chinese swimming team, noted that the athletes have been acclimating to their new environment in Paris for nearly a week, resulting in excellent training conditions. He underlined the athletes’ focused mindset and successful training sessions leading up to the start of swimming events, which will feature 141 gold medals available until September 7.

Simultaneously, the Chinese Paralympic cycling team, composed of both seasoned and newer athletes, has also been gearing up for the competition. Coach Li Peng emphasized that customized training strategies have been devised for each cyclist based on their individual strengths and capacities.

The medical support team plays an important role in the athletes’ journey, as detailed by Xu Min, who is part of this multidisciplinary medical unit. Their focus remains on injury prevention and swift medical care during training and competitions, enhancing the athletes' well-being.

Sports have proven vital in improving the overall health and societal integration of individuals with disabilities. The China Disabled Persons' Federation reported last year that there are over 12,000 rehabilitation centers in the country, supported by a workforce of around 360,000 professionals.

Guo Lingling, a powerlifting champion from the Tokyo Paralympics, shared her journey overcoming the challenges of polio that left her reliant on a wheelchair and crutches. She noted that powerlifting has been a transformative experience, enabling her to forge new friendships and discover a deeper sense of purpose in life.