Highlights
By Fang Jingyi
The Paris Paralympics concluded on Sep 8, local time, with Team China achieving remarkable success, winning a total of 220 medals, including 94 golds.
This victory brought China’s total Paralympic gold count to over 600. Sixteen athletes from Hangzhou competed across seven major events, securing impressive results, including six gold medals.
On the first day of competition, four-time Paralympian Li Zhangyu from Lin’an district won China’s first gold in the men’s C1 3000m individual pursuit cycling event. Two days later, he claimed another gold in the men’s C1 1000m individual pursuit. Li, who has competed in para-cycling for 13 years, has broken multiple world records and won over 50 medals in various international competitions. These two gold medals bring his total Paralympic gold count to six.
Additionally, weightlifter Tan Yujiao excelled in her third consecutive Paralympics. She broke her own world record in the women’s 67kg powerlifting final with a lift of 142kg, securing her third consecutive Paralympic title. On the same day, she was elected to the International Paralympic Committee Athletes’ Council, marking the first time a Chinese athlete has held this position.
There were also impressive triumphs in the swimming pool. Hangzhou swimmer Wang Lichao, along with his teammates, broke two world records, winning gold in both the 20-point final of the mixed 4×50m freestyle relay and the mixed 4×50m medley relay. Other athletes, including Jiang Shengnan, also delivered outstanding performances in their respective events.
In addition, Hangzhou athletes achieved excellent results in athletics, goalball, and other events, consistently showcasing the spirit of determination and perseverance among para-athletes. Their outstanding performances have garnered increased recognition and admiration from a broader audience.