The Paris Paralympics creates an unparalleled atmosphere with iconic venues and enthusiastic crowds

Nineteen-year-old Ezra Frech led a stadium-wide slow clap during his record-breaking high jump at the Paralympic Games, calling himself the happiest man alive. His coach, Roderick Townsend, also won a gold medal in a different classification. The Paralympics in Paris are drawing huge crowds, with over two million tickets sold, and increased viewership from home compared to past Games. Athletes like Jaydin Blackwell and Surenjav Ulambayar are experiencing the surreal environment of competing in front of such large audiences for the first time. In Sitting Volleyball and Para Table Tennis, the crowd plays a crucial role in energizing the athletes with dances and chants. Paralympian Hunter Woodhall won gold in the 400m, with his wife Tara cheering him on. Other highlights included the excitement at the Eiffel Tower during Blind Soccer games, where the crowd remains mostly silent to allow players to listen for the ball but erupts in cheers when a goal is scored. U.S. Blind Soccer captain Charles E. Catherine-Caldaro used a Vision Pad to follow the action and enhance his scouting abilities for future competitions. The Paralympic Games in Paris are showcasing the talents of athletes from around the world and providing them with a unique and exhilarating experience in front of enthusiastic crowds.

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