Kiratiana Freelon: A Passionate Advocate for the Paralympic Games in Paris 2024
Kiratiana Freelon, a distinguished journalist and avid sports fan, set an ambitious goal for herself during the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games: to attend every parasport event. Having come close to achieving this goal, Freelon, originally from Chicago and currently residing in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, expressed her deep passion for the Paralympic Games. This marked her third experience at the Paralympics, having previously participated as a journalist in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games, alongside attending multiple Olympic Games since 2008.
Freelon dedicated herself to experiencing the Paris 2024 Games to the fullest, which included renting a flat in Paris for two months and inviting friends to join her in attending various sporting events. She actively documented her experiences on social media, underscoring her commitment to the Para sport community.
In her reflections, Freelon noted, “Since attending my first Paralympic Games in London 2012, I have pledged to support the Paralympics whenever I attend the Olympics. As a true sports enthusiast, I feel it is my obligation to show up for Para sports.” She further elaborated that, as a fan, she finds the Paralympic Games to be particularly enjoyable due to their inclusive atmosphere and thrilling competition.
While Freelon aimed to see all the Para sports, logistical challenges prevented her from attending certain events, such as Para rowing, Para canoe, and shooting Para sport, which were located farther away. She managed to attend numerous events, highlighting a particularly exciting moment when she witnessed the presentation of the first gold medal of the Games by Jackie Chan during the Para cycling events.
Freelon noted the high level of interest in the Paralympic Games in Brazil, stating, “Brazil tends to capture more medals in the Paralympics compared to the Olympics, making the excitement palpable among local fans.” She expressed enthusiasm about the Brazilian team’s performance, anticipating a significant medal count.
One of her most cherished memories from the Games was watching Matt Stutzman, a renowned armless archer, in action. Freelon emphasized the significance of this moment, as it represented a personal milestone for her, having witnessed his journey since 2016 when he did not progress past the initial rounds.
Freelon took full advantage of the vibrant Parisian backdrop during the Games, attending events held in iconic venues including those near the Eiffel Tower. She highlighted the seamless integration of the Games into the city of Paris, which enhanced the overall experience for visitors and participants alike.
In embracing the spirit of the Games, Freelon adopted the official Olympic and Paralympic attire, which further enriched her experience. She actively sought to introduce others to Para sports, organizing outings for friends who had little exposure to sporting events. Her efforts culminated in a successful day of sporting events that left a lasting impression on her guests.
As the Games draw to a close, Freelon looks forward to celebrating the achievements of the Brazilian Paralympic team and eagerly anticipates future events, including the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
In conclusion, Kiratiana Freelon’s dedication and enthusiasm for the Paralympic Games exemplify the spirit of inclusivity and celebration inherent in the event. Her multifaceted approach as a fan, journalist, and advocate for parasports enriches the experience for herself and those around her, contributing to the growth and appreciation of the Paralympic movement.
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