Cyprus celebrates strong showing at Paris 2024 Paralympics

Cyprus has celebrated a triumphant performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, with the country's delegation securing two medals and delivering strong results across multiple events.

The standout athlete for Cyprus was swimmer Karolina Palendritou, who earned both a silver and a bronze medal. Palendritou clinched silver in the 50m freestyle in the S11 category and bronze in the 100m breaststroke, also in the SB11 category. Her achievements were pivotal in Cyprus's success at the Games.

Maria Markou, a Cypriot bench weightlifter, earned 9th place in her event and proudly carried the Cyprus flag during the closing ceremony of the Paralympic Games, held on Sunday. Markou expressed her gratitude on social media, reflecting on her journey and the support she received. “9th place at the Paralympic Games in Paris. Every moment was a battle, full of challenges. I am deeply grateful for all of you who stood by me and for the messages of support that gave me so much strength. It wasn’t just a race, it was a journey full of faith, dreams, and hope. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being my inspiration,” she wrote.

Viktoras Pentaras also made a notable contribution by securing 7th place in the Long Jump. All three Cypriot athletes competed in the finals of their respective events, underscoring the country's strong presence at the Games.

Andreas Theofylaktos, Head of the Cypriot delegation, praised the overall performance of the Cyprus National Paralympic Committee. Speaking to CNA from Paris, Theofylaktos described the mission's performance as “absolutely successful” and extended his thanks to all members of the delegation, the President of the Cypriot Paralympic Committee, and the numerous supporters who sent positive messages.

“The mission is considered absolutely successful,” Theofylaktos concluded. “All our Cypriot athletes competed in the final of their sport, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.”

The strong showing by Cyprus at the Paris 2024 Paralympics highlights the country's growing prowess in Paralympic sports and reflects the dedication and talent of its athletes.

[With information from CNA]