A real games changer

Superb services

All para athletes were given an ideal environment to chase their dreams at the Games, thanks to the top-quality venues, barrier-free facilities, and volunteer services at the three Paralympic villages－in downtown Beijing, the capital's northwest Yanqing district and co-host Zhangjiakou, Hebei province.

The National Indoor Stadium, which hosted para ice hockey, was a shining example of the meticulous planning, organization and execution that made Games venues so special.

The transition work began immediately after the Winter Olympics ice hockey final late last month. To accommodate the para athletes' equipment, the ice was thickened, and the plexiglass barriers which separated the media and players were lowered to make interviews more convenient.

The Paralympic villages offered wide-ranging, 24-hour medical services, wheelchair-friendly canteens with menus in Braille for visually impaired athletes, gyms and recreational areas.

The 2,000-square-meter fitness center at the Paralympic Village in downtown Beijing featured many bespoke facilities for athletes with disabilities.

Over 9,000 volunteers served at the Beijing Winter Paralympics, playing a vital role in ensuring all aspects of life for the athletes went smoothly.

All volunteers underwent specialized training in serving and communicating with people with disabilities, while 12 of the volunteers themselves had disabilities.

"The youngest of the 12 is just 19 years old, while the oldest is 63.They hail from various walks of life, including university students, retired para athletes, medical workers, teachers, and community workers," said Liu Lili, deputy director of the communication and training division of the Paralympic Games integration department.

"They have different skillsets, and some have experience of serving at sports events in the past, such as the Beijing Marathon. Their participation at the Paralympics is testament to their dedication and professionalism. They personify the ideal of contributing to society and show how much people with disabilities can contribute themselves."

In addition, the comprehensive barrier-free environment that was installed at all Paralympic sites and transportation services made athletes' day-to-day experience extra smooth.