Torch of Peace: History and Symbolism of the Olympic Flame

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games were the sporting event of the century, but they were still a real experiment, where the boundaries of traditional sport were pushed by new challenges. These Games brought something fresh, unconventional and energetic to the sports world: the new Olympic sports. Viewers got the chance to experience colourful, unpredictable and exciting disciplines that changed the perception of sport forever. What was new on the programme and why are they so important to the whole Olympic movement? We tell you in the article.

Skateboarding as an Olympic sport: a new take on the outdoors

Skateboarding originated in the 1950s in California, when surfers were looking for a way to play their favourite sport on land. The first skateboards were boards with bolt-on wheels, and so began an entire subculture that has come to symbolise youthful freedom and a spirit of rebellion. In the 1990s, skateboarding gained huge popularity thanks to stars like Tony Hawk, who turned this street sport into an international movement.

At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, skateboarding made its official debut on the programme and at the Paris 2024 Games, it confirmed its status as one of the most colourful and exciting sports. In Paris, athletes demonstrated tricks with heights of up to 2-3 metres using ramps and rails, which conveyed the full power of street culture to the international stage.

Top skateboarders at the 2024 Olympics

In Paris, stars stood out like Britain’s Skye Brown, who had already won bronze in Tokyo and now won gold in the park discipline. Skye performed incredibly confidently by executing complex combinations of flips and holds. Brazilian Raissa Leal also made history with her exceptional technique and grace, winning silver. Raissa, known as the ‘Skateboard Fairy’, performed tricks like the kickflip over the rail, which thrilled the audience. Many athletes showed the world that skateboarding is an art of movement accessible to all.

A revolution in the Olympic programme: a new sport

Skateboarding not only pushed the boundaries of the Olympics, but also changed the perception of competition. The format brought a unique creative element to the Games, allowing spectators to see not only the competitive spirit but also the individuality of each athlete. Young people from all over the world saw that sport can be free, unique and incredibly entertaining.

Surfing: a battle against the elements

Surfing, a symbol of freedom and harmony with nature, originated in Hawaii more than a thousand years ago. In the early 20th century, it began to gain popularity in California and Australia. It first entered the Olympic programme as a new sport at the Tokyo 2020 Games. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, the competition took place off the coast of Tahiti, where the waves reached a height of 3 to 4 metres – exciting conditions for the athletes. The competition consisted of short and long rides and each surfer demonstrated their technique in different types of waves.

Paris 2024 surf highlights

One of the highlights of the Olympics was Kai Lennon of the US, who won gold with a brilliant performance. His aerial reverse and cutback combinations earned him the highest scores from the judges. Tatiana Weston-Webb of Brazil also delivered an outstanding performance, winning silver and inspiring many young surfers around the world. Her technique of wave surfing was characterised by its smoothness and her ability to maximise the potential of the wave.

How surfing changed the Olympics

Surfing brought a sought-after element of adventure and excitement to the programme. Each heat was unique due to the unpredictable nature of the ocean: the strength and shape of the waves were never repeated. Spectators witnessed a true battle against the elements, where at any moment the outcome of the competition could change. The Olympics’ new sports make the Games more diverse and interesting for a wider audience, create an atmosphere of true oneness with nature and affirm the importance of environmental awareness.

The new sport breakdancing: from the streets to Olympic medals

Breakdancing, a dance art that originated on the streets of New York’s Bronx in the 1970s, has finally found its place at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The first dancers used this style to express themselves and release energy. The inclusion of this discipline was a logical step, given its growing popularity and ability to unite people from different cultures. In Paris, dancers performed on specially built platforms in La Défense, mixing acrobatics, gymnastics and rhythmic movements to powerful music.

The best breakdancers of the 2024 Olympics

One of the heroes of the Olympics was Bobo from France, who took gold on his country’s stage. His performance included elements such as ‘power moves’, ‘windmill’ and complex ‘freezes’ that did not leave judges and spectators indifferent. Japanese dancer Ayumi won silver and showed incredible flexibility and musicality, moving smoothly from one element to another.

Breakdance as part of Olympic culture

The format became a platform where athletes could showcase their individuality and display incredible fitness and creative skills. Young people from all over the world saw that street culture could be recognised at the highest level and this inspired a new generation of dancers and athletes. The 2024 Olympics were proof that sport can be versatile and incorporate elements of culture and art, giving the competition a spirit of unity and creativity.

Conclusion

New Olympic sports have brought excitement and colour to the Olympics. They have added new colours to a traditional sporting event, bringing it closer to young people and reflecting modern trends. Sport has become not only medals and records, but also lifestyle, culture and creativity. The Paris Olympics was a moment when the new and the traditional merged in harmony, opening up a world of new possibilities for athletes and spectators.

1948. Stoke Mandeville, England. A modest rehabilitation centre for veterans where the first sports competition for people with disabilities was held, later known as the Paralympics. It was a real social breakthrough. Since then, the games have become a symbol of human resilience and the ability to overcome any barrier. Its importance cannot be underestimated: the movement led to a real social transformation that opened new horizons for millions of people around the world.

How the Paralympics came about: from the first steps to global recognition

The history of the Paralympic Games began with a small dream: to help World War II veterans rebuild their lives. In 1948, neurologist Sir Ludwig Guttmann organised the Paralympic Games at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. Only 16 people took part, but this modest competition became the starting point for a movement that became world-famous. In 1960, the first official competition took place in Rome, attracting more than 400 participants from 23 countries. This move consolidated the Paralympics as an international sporting event offering new opportunities for all people with disabilities.

Social and cultural change

Since then, the Paralympics have contributed enormously to changing public perceptions of disability. They have broken stereotypes and demonstrated that people with physical disabilities are capable of great sporting achievements. In countries where people with disabilities were previously overlooked, the Games have brought about significant cultural change. Opportunities for inclusive education have increased and urban environments have been adapted for all categories of citizens. The Paralympics were not only a sporting event, but also a catalyst for social reform.

The scale of the Paralympics today: global reach and number of participants

The scale of the competition is staggering: since its inception, it has grown into a major event involving more than 160 countries. Today, more than 4,000 athletes from all over the world gather to showcase their skills and prove that nothing is impossible. Each edition of the Paralympic Games witnesses amazing achievements that demonstrate the power of the human spirit. Participating countries show tremendous progress in inclusion and, thanks to this movement, millions of spectators see new sporting and social horizons open up.

The Paralympic Games as a symbol of equality

Every start and every victory at these events shows that sport is a universal language that can unite people regardless of their physical abilities. Thanks to the Paralympics, society is quietly realising that the potential of each individual is much greater than is often thought. In Germany and Japan, for example, Paralympic initiatives have made cities more accessible and new forms of media have emerged to raise awareness of the lives of people with disabilities.

Sport that breaks down barriers: sport at the Paralympic Games

The Paralympics include many disciplines, each adapted for people with different disabilities: swimming, wheelchair basketball, athletics, wheelchair fencing and many others. Swimming is a true water battle, with athletes demonstrating strength and coordination, while wheelchair basketball is characterised by dynamism and strategic depth. The competition shows that sport can and should be accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations.

How sports are adapted

Each discipline of the Paralympic Games is adapted to the specific characteristics of the athletes. Special wheelchairs for fencing allow athletes to move freely and perform complex movements, while prostheses for runners provide the necessary cushioning and agility. Paralympic sports aim to highlight the strength of mind and the capabilities of each individual. They enable athletes to reach heights many thought impossible and inspire millions of people around the world.

The impact of the Paralympics on society: changes in public perception

Until a few decades ago, people with disabilities faced not only physical but also social constraints. The Paralympics have contributed significantly to changing this situation. Schools and universities are increasingly adapting programmes for students with disabilities and inclusive groups are appearing in clubs and sports departments. The inspiring examples of the Paralympians have enabled many to revise their prejudices and see persons with disabilities as strong individuals.

The role of the media and cultural initiatives

The media play a huge role in promoting equality and inclusion. Thanks to extensive coverage of the Paralympic Games, people are starting to see athletes not only as competitors, but also as heroes. Films and documentaries about Paralympians help audiences learn more about the challenges athletes face and their determination to persevere until the end. The importance of the Paralympics goes far beyond the stadiums and arenas and touches the hearts of millions of people.

Russian Paralympians: achievements and records

Russian Paralympians play an important role on the international stage. Alexey Ashapatov is a multi-champion athlete who has won many medals at the Paralympic Games. Mikhail Astashov, who won a gold medal in cycling, has become a true symbol of endurance and perseverance. These achievements highlight the strength of Russian athletes who, despite the odds, continue to strive for victory and represent their country with pride.

Conclusion

The Paralympics are a path to equality and opportunity for millions of people. They break down barriers and build bridges. Each participant proves that willpower and the will to win can overcome any obstacle. Inspired by their achievements, society changes and becomes more inclusive and equitable.