Paralympic Inspiration in Whistler

When the 2010 Olympic Winter Games finished, the excitement and spirit of competition lived on for another 10 days when the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games kicked off on March 12. Most of the events took place in Whistler and everyone had the chance to witness the athleticism, determination and commitment of the competitors. Paralympic athletes are classified as standing, sitting or visually impaired and compete against other athletes with a similar disability.

Paralympic alpine skiing took place at Whistler Creekside, home of the famous Dave Murray Downhill. Skiers reached speeds of 100 km per hour while racing down a vertical drop that ranges from 120 to 800 metres. Adding to the difficulty was a series of gates the skiers must twist and turn to pass through. Races included Downhill, Super-G, Giant Slalom, Slalom and Super Combined.

For Paralympic Nordic events, Whistler Olympic Park hosted cross-country skiing and biathlon. The Callaghan Valley provided a stunning backdrop to these high-energy races. Paralympic cross-country skiing included men’s and women’s individual events with distances ranging from 2.5 to 20 km. Athletes either used the classic or free technique which is also called skate skiing. In biathlon, which combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, athletes competed in either short-distance or long-distance and always shot in a prone position.

Victory Ceremonies were held nightly between March 13 and 18 at Whistler Medals Plaza to award the medals won that day. After the medals presentation, a live concert closed out the evening. On March 19 and 20, medals were presented at the venues.

The Paralympic Closing Ceremony took place at Whistler Medals Plaza on March 21. Full of celebration, inspiration and recognition, it was a highlight of the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games.