The Tokyo Olympics was dominated by the USA, ending with a total of 113 medals beating the second-place team which was China by 25 medals, which had a total of 88 medals. When it came to gold medals alone the race was much closer. The USA had 39 gold whereas China had 38 gold medals. The U.S. women seemed to play a big part in getting their country the win by winning a total of 66 medals which helped the USA win with ease.
With the end of the Tokyo Olympics, the next to look forward to is the Paralympics which start Tuesday, Aug. 24, and go through Sunday, Sep. 5. The Paralympics were scheduled practically one year from when they were supposed to happen last year since things had to be changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though it’s a year later COVID is still affecting the Paralympics. The Paralympics will have no fans as of now and are hoping spectators will stay off the roads when events are outside on the streets. The IPC (International Paralympic Committee) is trying it’s best to provide a secure and safe environment for the athletes so that they have a chance to participate in the Paralympics and not drop out of them due to concerns with COVID-19. The Paralympics will be set up and run just like the Olympics.
With the Paralympics starting the athletes and the games themselves have always tried to promote disability awareness. Disability awareness is very important throughout the world, as it helps educate kids and even adults regarding disabilities. Throughout the years the Paralympics have tried to knock down barriers for people with disabilities and with the games continuing, especially during times like these, they will continue to shed light on issues that disabled people face every day.
Hopefully, the Paralympics will have smooth and problematic-free games so that they can get their message out about disability awareness so that people around the world can be inspired to strive and hopefully one day reach their goals.
Nick Thomas
Intern