REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla lauded Asian Para Games 2018 athletes. He said the athletes are winners of humanity because of their ability to take part in the international sport competition despite their physical limitations.
"You are all winners not only in the competition arena but also in humanity. Thank you for giving us a fun-filled competition," he stated in his address at the closing ceremony of the event here on Saturday.
The hard work and the achievement made by the athletes have demonstrated to the world that limitations are not obstacles for making an achievement, he noted.
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The success created by Asian Para Games 2018 medalists would change public perception towards people with disabilities.
"For the past week, you have all shown that you are stronger, better, and more capable than what people might have thought before. Indeed, you have special needs and are with disabilities, but you are not short of spirit, achievement, and glory," he remarked.
A total of 2,762 athletes from 43 countries took part in 512 events from 18 sport branches apart from 16 non-medal events in para athletics and para swimming. Indonesia was ranked fifth after winning 135 medals, including 37 gold medals, 47 silver medals, and 51 bronze medals.
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