Sir, – While the sentiment is no doubt well-intended, I completely disagree that all Irish Paralympic athletes should be awarded a medal based on their participation (Patrick Kavanagh, September 15th). Paralympians are elite athletes and they want their performances to be recognised for what they are. Like their Olympic counterparts, Paralympic athletes have to attain qualifying standards in order to compete at the Games. Medals are then awarded for those that finish first, second and third. That is the way it should be.
I represented Ireland at the Paralympic Games in Atlanta in 1996. I trained hard for my event (wheelchair marathon) and tried my best. I didn’t get a medal. I was beaten by athletes who were better than me and I applauded their performance.
I hope the London Paralympic games and the fantastic achievements by all the Irish team has raised the profile of disabled sport and the athletes in this country. Representing your country is a great honour. This is enough of a souvenir. – Yours, etc,