Brazil Aims for Historic Success at Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
As Brazil sets its sights on the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the Brazilian Paralympic Committee has challenged the nation’s para-athletes to achieve a historic record of medals. With the aim of securing a top eight position in the medal table, Brazil hopes to build upon its impressive performance at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where the country clinched a total of 72 medals, including 22 gold, 20 silver, and 30 bronze. Success in Tokyo was particularly pronounced in swimming and athletics, with Brazil’s blind football team continuing its tradition of excellence.
Jonas Freire, the high-performance director, expressed confidence in the athletes’ preparation, stating, “Our athletes are arriving in Paris in their best shape, after a pretty prolific route to the Paralympic Games. They’ve achieved their best records ever in the last three years at their respective world championships.” He further outlined the ambitious forecast for the upcoming event, with expectations set for 70 to 90 podium finishes.
Among the notable athletes, Mariana D’Andrea, who created a sensation in women’s powerlifting at Tokyo, is determined to continue her ascendance. She proclaimed, “To be a champion, you have to think like a champion, train like a champion and have the attitude of a champion.” Additionally, Freire highlighted table tennis player Bruna Alexandre, who will achieve a remarkable milestone as the first Brazilian Paralympic athlete to compete in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris.
Carol Santiago, who concluded Tokyo 2020 as Brazil’s most accomplished athlete by earning three gold medals, will also be a key contender in the upcoming games. Freire noted, “Brazil is a powerhouse in Paralympic sport because it has excellent athletes in various sports.” Santiago’s achievements significantly contributed to Brazil’s total of 23 swimming medals.
New talents like Samuel de Oliveira, the S5 world champion competing in his first Games, also represent Brazil’s promising future in Paralympic sport. The men’s blind football team aims for its sixth consecutive gold medal, with standout player Raimundo Mendes, known as Nonato, emphasizing his passion for the sport and his unwavering desire for victory.
The Brazilian goalball team will be defending its title after the historic first gold medal in Tokyo, with key players Josemarcio Sousa and Leomon Moreno in formidable form. Sousa remarked on the importance of mental resilience, stating, “The physical part will be important. But it is the mental part that will bring the victory.”
Fernando Rufino De Paulo, dubbed the Steel Cowboy, heads a significant delegation of eight para-canoeists, showcasing Brazil’s largest squad for the games. A reigning champion, he brings considerable experience, along with multiple world titles.
Moreover, anticipation surrounds sprinter Petrucio Ferreira dos Santos, who recently solidified his position as the fastest in the world in his category. His dedication and performance have inspired many, as he aims to repeat his success at the upcoming Paralympics.
In conclusion, as Brazil prepares for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the nation’s athletes are poised to deliver exceptional performances. With a strong emphasis on both physical and mental preparation, the Brazilian Paralympic Committee is optimistic about their chances of achieving unprecedented success and reinforcing Brazil’s stature as a leading force in Paralympic sports.
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