Looking back on the Paralympics: a spectacle to be cherished

As the excitement of the Paralympics slowly begins to fade away, a member of our staff relives her fantastic experience as one of the lucky spectators…

“I was very lucky to see Paralympic events at two different venues. First off, I saw wheelchair fencing at the Excel arena with my friend Joanna.

“The first thing we noticed was how well organised it was and how helpful and friendly all the volunteers were. We were so impressed! The wheelchair fencing was great. We had good seats and it was fantastic to see such skill and fierce competition from the Paralympians.

“We managed to get seats for the table tennis on the same day, as well as catch the medal ceremony, which was great.

“I was there again a week later, this time with my family to watch the 7-a-side football tournament. It was amazing to be inside the Olympic Park and see how the whole area had been transformed. The newly constructed buildings, like the Aquatic Centre and the Olympic stadium were simply stunning.

“After buying some (rather pricey!) food and drinks we settled down to watch Iran take on Brazil in the third place play-off match. It was a great match and my husband and children really enjoyed it.

“The Brazilian Paralympic team were predictably skilful, but it was Iran that scored first, and that just seemed to open up the floodgates! The game finished 5-0 to Iran. The atmosphere was fantastic and there were Mexican waves constantly going around the stadium, which the kids especially enjoyed. The speed, skill and competitiveness the Paralympian footballers displayed was incredible to see.

“At the final whistle, we made our way out of the Olympic Park with the happy crowds. It was the final day of the Paralympics, so there was a real buzz in the air.

“It was important to me to take my children to the Paralympics. I wanted them to see how amazing the Paralympians were, and give them the chance to form an accurate and positive perception of the ability of people with disabilities.

“Because I work at United Response, I think going to the Paralympics gave me an extra thrill. I felt really proud watching these great athletes, knowing they were raising the profile of disabled people and changing attitudes everywhere.

“I was so glad to have attended the Paralympics, and especially to have shared the experience with my family. I think we had better start saving now for the 2016 Paralympics in Brazil!”

Renu Randhawa, United Response.

If the Paralympics has inspired you to physical exertion, why not try one of our sporty fundraising activities, and help raise funds for people with disabilities at the same time:
- Virgin London Marathon 2013
- London to Paris bike ride
- In the Swim 2013 – swimathon fundraiser