Ellie Simmonds by Daniel Castrogiovanni.
Much has been written of the Paralympics: with the press dwelling on life stories of ‘inspiring’ athletes and the athletes in turn pleading with fans to concentrate on their physical achievements in sport. Between my family and friends we simply expressed our utmost admiration: for, like Olympic athletes the Paralympics athletes, are in awesome physical condition. They can boast a level of fitness that most of us can only dream of (or work extremely extremely hard for) and their sporting feats outstripped what the ordinary person is capable of, despite any physical or mental shortcomings.
David Weir by Ruth Joyce.
Like many others I’ve never paid much attention to the Paralympics before, but then again I’ve never watched the Olympics either. I’m glad that despite sponsorship failings (protestors attacked the hypocrisy of Atos, a major sponsor who is also behind cuts in disability benefits) this Paralympics has raised the profile of what people with disabilities are capable of. Let’s just hope there’s a trickle down effect: firstly to those who don’t have such easy access to professional sports training (some countries won many events in the Olympics but were unable to afford equipment and training for Paralympics athletes) and secondly in the public perception of all people with disabilities, including those who are crap at sport (like me, I am sure there are many) but brilliant at other stuff that may go unrecognised or supported. We’re all human after all, and every individual, whether disabled or able-bodied, has something to offer. Here’s to a celebration of diversity within loving community, long may the effects be felt.
Paralympian by Tara Anne Bush.
Pistorius Victorious by Claire Jones Art.
Pallers by Caroline Coates.
Oscar Pistorius by Daniel Castrogiovanni.
You can see what illustrators made of the Olympics here, here and here.
Categories ,Atos, ,Caroline Coates, ,Claire Jones Art, ,Daniel Castrogiovanni, ,David Weir, ,Ellie Simmonds, ,Olympics, ,Oscar Pistorius, ,Pallers, ,Paralympics, ,Ruth Joyce, ,Tara Anne Bush
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