HOLD 2012 PARALYMPICS FIRST

CONGRATULATIONS to all the Paralympians taking part in the games in Beijing, especially to those who have done us proud with gold, silver and bronze medals.

I have to admit I was never sure about the Paralympics but I have been won over for the reason spelt out by Tony Blair in a speech he made at the start of the Olympic Games - namely the importance of encouraging risk, courage and excellence in whatever field and from whatever beginning.

He described it as the drive for championship and to be a champion.

Those competing, with a tiny fraction of the publicity of the medallists in August, display the most astonishing qualities and give hope and self-belief to millions across the world.

But when world leaders gather in New York for the UN Assembly on the millennium goals later this month, one topic which will be some way down their agenda will be disability.

Enthusiasm

It is one reason why I believe that in 2012, the Paralympics in London should be held before, not after, the main Olympic Games.

For one thing, the enthusiasm, the anticipation and the media attention will actually touch the Paralympics if it is part of the build-up to the games themselves.

Secondly it will allow for all the systems and processes to be tested.

Thirdly spectators could be encouraged if, for instance, by attending at least one of the major Paralympics events, you automatically received a discount on one of the most popular events in the main Olympics. This would mean a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Fourthly, with a bit of ingenuity, it would be possible to persuade the world’s media and tourists to come that bit earlier and between the Paralympics and the Games’ opening ceremony to enjoy Britain’s hospitality.

Attention

But, of course, the real reason would be to ensure that there was a great deal more attention on those participating and their tremendous achievements.

How many of those from outside China attend the Paralympics because ‘we have to really’? I pose the question because I think it needs to be answered.

For the one thing that those participating can not tolerate is being patronised. That is why I used to be sceptical about the whole idea. But it is also why I think that if this is to be the benefit I believe it can be, it has to be elevated to the run-in and not to the last post.

I am sure the bureaucrats will find every possible excuse to stick with what someone, somewhere at some time decided was good for those with disabilities. But I hope those with imagination, drive and championship quality will match the courage of the Paralympics in breaking new ground!