Paris 2024 Paralympics: Meet the Flagbearers Leading Nations at the Opening Ceremony
The 17th Summer Paralympic Games have officially kicked off in Paris, ushering in a global celebration of athleticism and resilience. The Opening Ceremony, held on Wednesday, set the stage for an inspiring competition featuring 549 events across 22 sports, all set to conclude on September 8.
A diverse group of athletes, each a symbol of national pride, had the honour of carrying their country’s flag during the ceremony. This year’s flagbearers represent their nations and the spirit of determination and excellence that defines the Paralympic Games.
Here’s a look at some of the athletes who led their countries at the Paris Paralympics Opening Ceremony:
– *Afghanistan:* Ebrahim Danishi (Para Taekwondo)
– *South Africa:* Mpumelelo Mhlongo (Para Athletics), Kat Swanepoel (Para Swimming)
– *Algeria:* Mohamed Berrahal and Safia Djelal (Para Athletics)
– *Germany:* Edina Mueller (Para Canoe), Martin Schulz (Para Triathlon)
– *Angola:* Juliana Ngleya Moko, Abraao Abreu Sapalo (Para Athletics)
– *Turkmenistan:* Mayagozel Ekeyeva (Para Powerlifting)
– *Ukraine:* Olena Fedota-Isaieva (Wheelchair Fencing), Roman Polianskyi (Para Rowing)
– *Uruguay:* Hanna Arias (Para Swimming), Henry Borges (Para Judo)
– *Vanuatu:* Elie Enock, Ken Kahu (Para Athletics)
– *Venezuela:* Luis Felipe Rodriguez Bolivar, Lisbeli Marina Vera Andrade (Para Athletics)
– *Virgin Islands, US:* Isaiah Benjamin (Para Athletics)
– *Vietnam:* Hoang Tuyet Loan Chau, Van Cong Le (Para Powerlifting)
– *Yemen:* Naseb Fateh Mohammed Alraoad (Para Athletics)
– *Zambia:* Games Volunteer
– *Zimbabwe:* Tinotenda Nicole Bango, Kudakwashe Paidamoyo Chigwedere (Para Athletics)
– *Australia:* Madison de Rozario (Para Athletics), Brenden Hall (Para Swimming)
– *United States:* Nicky Nieves (Sitting Volleyball), Steve Serio (Wheelchair Basketball)
– *France:* Alexis Hanquinquant (Para Triathlon), Nantenin Keita (Para Athletics)
These flagbearers, from seasoned champions to rising stars, are set to inspire millions as they lead their teams into a fortnight of competition that will showcase the very best of Paralympic sport.
