As the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games draws to a close today (September 8, Paris time), the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, expressed his congratulations to the Hong Kong, China Delegation on its outstanding achievements, praising the athletes for giving their utmost in the competitions, and showcasing to the world the indomitable Hong Kong spirit and the extraordinary capabilities of Hong Kong athletes with disabilities.
Mr Lee said, "The Hong Kong, China Delegation captured three gold medals, four silver medals and one bronze medal in this year's Paralympic Games, achieving the best results since the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. With unparalleled resilience and determination, every athlete overcame numerous obstacles and persevered through rigorous training to eventually step onto the Paralympic stage and shine brilliantly. Regardless of the results, each of them is a warrior of life, and a hero and role model in the hearts of the people of Hong Kong, making us deeply proud.
"The members of the Hong Kong, China Delegation at this year's Paralympic Games included not only veteran athletes, but also rising stars participating in the Games for the first time. They demonstrated teamwork and supported each other on the field, showcasing exceptional skills and professionalism together, and achieving remarkable results time and again, a truly admirable feat. I express my gratitude to the coaches, medical personnel and support teams for their dedication and meticulous nurturing of the athletes. I also acknowledge the contributions of the Hong Kong Sports Institute, the China Hong Kong Paralympic Committee (HKPC) and various sports associations in promoting the development of the local Paralympic Movement over the years."
Mr Lee said that the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region fully supports the development of sports for persons with disabilities, noting that the estimated expenditure for the purpose amounts to over $130 million in the current financial year, representing a growth of over 40 per cent compared to that of five years ago. In June last year, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, in collaboration with the HKPC, launched a pilot programme on career and education for athletes with disabilities to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary for their post-athletic transformation and career development. More than 140 athletes with disabilities have participated in the programme so far.
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