Laurent Michaud highlighted the village's design, stating that it is a '100% accessible village' tailored to meet 'the specific needs of the 4,400 para-athletes'. The emphasis on accessibility was evident as changes were rapidly made to ensure athletes could navigate comfortably. Key modifications like additional ramps and enhanced lighting were essential, especially in making common spaces like the dining hall easier to access and enjoyable for everyone with reduced mobility.
Sandy floors and grates were covered with mats to prevent challenges for wheelchair users, showcasing attention to detail in the village's preparations. Additionally, motorized devices were introduced, enhancing the mobility experience and translating into a positive atmosphere. Athletes embraced these devices, enjoying their enhanced movement throughout the village, which added a fun element to navigating their home away from home.
Ludivine Munos, a former French para-athlete and head of integration for Paris 2024, expressed pride in the preparations, affirming that the transition from the Olympic to the Paralympic setup was effectively executed. The focus on creating a welcoming, accessible environment for para-athletes illustrates a significant commitment to inclusivity and enhancing their experience, thus fostering a spirit of community and celebration ahead of the games.
Collection
[
|
...
]