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CARLOS NEUHAUS: “GAMES ARE CRITICAL TO MAKE INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY A PRIORITY ON THE NATIONAL AGENDA”
The President of COPAL said that the Para athletes are the pride of the Americas and that they are ready to give us a great show.
Carlos Neuhaus, president of the Lima 2019 Organizing Committee (COPAL), said that “the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games are critical to making important aspects, as inclusion and accessibility, a priority on the national agenda.”
At the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games Opening Ceremony, Neuhaus emphasized that “Let’s all play” is not only a phrase, it is our philosophy. It is our vision of a healthier, happier and more united Peru.”
“But, to achieve this, everyone must have the same opportunities. We must all participate and everyone must benefit. At Lima 2019, let’s all keep playing,” he said and received the applause of the enthusiastic audience gathered at the National Stadium.
Previously, he welcomed the Para athletes from all over the continent and called them heroes for two reasons: “because they have not only overcome the inconveniences of life, but they have the great honor of representing their country.”
He pointed out that the Para athletes represent the values of the Paralympic movement: determination, equality, inspiration and courage. “They seek and find opportunities, solutions, new challenges, but never excuses; they are extraordinary athletes and better people; they are the pride of the Americas and they are ready to give us a great show.”
He said that for the first time Peruvians have the knowledge and necessary facilities to offer the Para athletes first-level Games. He also thanked the authorities, Peruvians and the Lima 2019 team for supporting and joining this great initiative. He also offered special recognition to the volunteers for their hard work and commitment.
Then, he asked the spectators to continue encouraging Para athletes. “To all Peruvians: your athletes need you again, support them by attending competitions, they will not disappoint you. At the Pan American Games, our country won more gold medals than in all previous editions combined. Your support made them faster, stronger and better; above all, they made us proud. With your support, I know that our 139 Para athletes and the Para athletes from the other 32 nations of the continent will leave the high fence again,” he remarked.