Switzerland Clinches Wheelchair Marathon Titles; Netherlands Retains Women’s Basketball Gold at 2024 Paralympics
The 2024 Paris Paralympics concluded on a high note with Switzerland achieving a remarkable double victory in the wheelchair marathons, while the Netherlands successfully defended their women’s wheelchair basketball title against the USA, marking a thrilling climax to the competition.
In a noteworthy display of athletic excellence, China once again dominated the medals table, securing the top position with an impressive haul of 94 gold medals. Following China were Great Britain with 49 golds and the United States with 36, a testament to the fierce competition on display throughout the Games.
As the vibrant atmosphere of the Olympics and Paralympics came to an end in the City of Light, preparations for the closing ceremony at the Stade de France were underway, with venues being dismantled in the aftermath of the grand event.
On the final morning, Catherine Debrunner of Switzerland showcased her extraordinary talent, navigating the brisk autumn conditions to claim victory in the women’s wheelchair marathon. At just 29 years old, Debrunner added this marathon win to her already impressive tally of four gold medals from various track events, and a silver in the T53 100m.
Expressing her emotions post-race, Debrunner stated, “I am extremely exhausted but very happy. Winning this marathon means everything to me because concluding this Paralympics with this achievement is incredibly special.” Madison de Rozario of Australia exemplified commendable resilience, securing a silver medal amid personal tragedy, having lost her father on the day of the Games’ opening ceremony.
Meanwhile, Marcel Hug, aged 38, redeemed himself from earlier disappointments on the track by prevailing in the men’s wheelchair marathon, finishing a remarkable 3 minutes and 40 seconds ahead of China’s Hua Jin. David Weir, one of Britain’s most celebrated Paralympic athletes, announced that Paris would be his final performance, reflecting on his career with both pride and emotion. He stated, “It is my last event for Great Britain. No more international racing for me. I will focus on city marathons.” A moment of silence was observed to honor the memory of Rebecca Cheptegei, the Ugandan Olympic marathon runner who tragically passed away earlier in the week.
In women’s wheelchair basketball, the Netherlands clinched victory over the USA with a decisive score of 63-49, successfully defending their title from the Tokyo 2020 Games. Bo Kramer led the Dutch team with a standout performance, scoring 23 points and securing 12 rebounds, while Mariska Beijer contributed 22 points. The USA, in search of their first title since 2016, faced a challenging defeat, with Rose Hollermann scoring 17 points but unable to turn the tide in favor of her team. China secured the bronze medal by defeating Canada 65-43.
Completing the medal standings, the Netherlands ranked fourth with 27 gold medals, Brazil followed closely with 25 golds, and Italy secured sixth place with 24. Notably, Ukraine’s athletes showcased exceptional determination, overcoming extensive adversities stemming from the ongoing conflict with Russia, finishing seventh with 22 gold medals. The host nation, France, concluded the Games placing eighth with 19 gold medals.
In summary, the 2024 Paris Paralympics displayed a remarkable array of athletic prowess and resilience, culminating in a celebration of achievements that will be long remembered.
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