Special Edition Sydney 2000

"Reach Up, Reach Out!"

"Being here is what it is all about." The chorus of Graeme Connors’ Paralympic song is not only in everybody’s head these days – it is the catchphrase for the extraordinary experience of the Paralympic Games Sydney 2000 and a summary of the millions of thrills down the spine athletes, coaches, officials, spectators and many others currently feel, may it be at a medal ceremony, when making friends with other athletes, when watching the lighting of the Paralympic Flame or when witnessing the setting of new records or the disappointment of failure.

Each Paralympic Games is unique: Barcelona – Atlanta – Nagano, the names of these cities stand for certain unforgettable moments. How will people remember the Sydney Games? One thing is certain: The enthusiasm of the Australian spectators and the cheering of the crowds will be proof of the undeniable fact that the Paralympic Games have left the seclusion of their early days. Sport is entertainment for the crowds – regardless of whether the athletes have a disability or not. Sport is excitement – no matter if it is practiced in a wheelchair or not. This will be the message of the Sydney Paralympic Games to the world.

The message will not be heard everywhere. It might not reach some people despite the work of more than 2,000 media representatives present at the Sydney Paralympic Games and some people may still close their eyes to it.

Excellent facilities, a village suited to the needs of Paralympic athletes and a diversified sports programme that takes into account the particulars of Paralympic sport make these Games a first-class sporting event which is not placed beneath other international sporting competitions. Reach Up, Reach Out! The Paralympic motto of "Mind – Body – Spirit" is not only aimed at high performance. Reach for friendship, fairness, pride, respect and success and experience unforgettable Paralympic Games!

"The Paralympian" Spreads News about Paralympic Sport

The International Paralympic Committee dedicates this special edition of "The Paralympian" to the participants of the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Summer Games. Athletes, volunteers, officials, sports administrators, organizers and media representatives, who are the heart of the Games, get a taste of what "The Paralympian" regularly reports of.

Are you interested in reading "The Paralympian" on a regular basis? Then have a look at the IPC website (www.paralympic.org/paralympian.htm), where "The Paralympian – Online" is published four times per year. The next edition is due in December.

You have newsworthy information about your sport, your National Paralympic Committee or an individual team or athlete? The editors of "The Paralympian" always welcome your contributions.