Chinese paralympic team sets off for London
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E-mail CNTV, August 22, 2012
China's spotlight is now on the country's paralympic team who are about to set off for London. Our reporter Guan Yang spent a few hours with them in Beijing to find out how the athletes are hoping to follow their fellow Olympians and achieve a record medal haul.
In less than 10 days time, these handicapped athletes will deliver world class performances in London, despite the greater physical challenges on their shoulders.
Zhang Haidi, Head, China Disabled Persons' Federation said, "As disabled athletes, all of you have been on a long journey to get to where you are, and I've seen miracle after miracle which even an ordinary athlete would find hard to achieve in your performances. Best of luck in London!"
From just a team of 24 taking part in the New York paralympic games in 1984, to 282 athletes taking part in this year's event, the country certainly has drawn more attention to disabled sports development, and the athletes are getting more professional.
Zhang Miao, Ping Pong Player said, "Over the past few month we've had intensive training and practice against some of the best players across the country."
For a few players, it will be their final performance.
Li Yansong, 4 X 100m Athlete said, "Although I might be over my best form compared with 2008, I will still give my best shot for the last time in the paralympics."
The Olympics is about breaking boundaries -- higher, faster and stronger. This also applies to the paralympic games, and the performance by the disabled athletes will make the society understand the fighting quality of the physically challenged people, as well as display the olympic spirit of equality.
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