影子练习9

On behalf of the International Paralympic Committee, I welcome you all to Athens and this beautiful stadium.

Greece has experienced a spectacular sporting summer. Firstly, your men’s football team, followed by the Olympic Games, and now the climax, the twelfth Paralympic Games.

Congratulations to Athens and to all citizens who have contributed to getting this wonderful city ready.

Thanks to the IOC and its President Jacques Rogge and Honorary Life President Juan Antonio Samaranch, both of whom are with us this evening.

Thanks to the media. We share a passion for sport, and for the individuals behind the sport. You will ensure that the images and reports of the Paralympic Games are spread to the farthest corners of the world.

Throughout my long sporting career, I have worked with thousands of volunteers. They are the backbone of every successful sports festival. The optimism and goodwill of the volunteers here in Athens will be no exception. Their smiles come from a deep passion and pride contained within their beings.

But the real heroes of the evening are the athletes. We are here to celebrate you and your sport, but there is more to it than that.

You are a beacon of inspiration for millions of people around the world: For those who cannot be in the stadium tonight; for young athletes, who, watching you, will set their sights higher; for the families, friends and organizations that support those young athletes.

More than 2,000 years ago, the Greek philosopher, Democritos, said, “to win oneself is the first and best of all victories”. This holds true for all athletes, but especially for Paralympians. Recognizing and cultivating your unique abilities, mastering challenges, maintaining the balance between body and spirit—you set standards and give expression for many people, young and old, around the world.

The essence of the Paralympic spirit is a Greek heritage, expressed in just two words “kalos” and “kagathos”: harmony and excellence paired with nobility and ability. All of you here prove every day that you are all of these things. And tomorrow you will show the world that Paralympians embody the true Greek spirit. Olympians prided themselves on returning to their ancient homeland. The Paralympic spirit has always been here!

Sport is about fair play. Sport is about mutual respect and comradeship. And sport is about coming together in peace. In the run-up to Paralympic Games, we often encounter obstacles that are set by political or economic agendas. I am delighted that the ethos of sportsmanship has again prevailed and tonight we can welcome 4,000 athletes from 145 nations, 17 nations participating for the first time!

Athletes, your moments of glory are fast approaching.