Lasting Impressions by Andrea Thies

My Experience at the 2024 Paralympic Games

Attending the Paralympic Games was an unforgettable experience, filled with moments of awe, inspiration and connection. The athlete village, where I spent much of my time, was a microcosm of the world itself, brimming with energy and diversity. One of the unexpected delights was the endless supply of food and beverage options—available at any hour.

Costa, a British coffeehouse chain, had outposts all over the village, and it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with their Flat White, a rich blend of espresso and steamed milk. Mornings would start early, with athletes and coaches queuing as early as 6 a.m., all eager for that first eye-opener before catching the 7 a.m. bus to the rowing venue.

As much as I enjoyed my daily coffee routine, it was the community within the village that struck me most. Athletes of all abilities and backgrounds mingled as equals, moving between the dining hall, lounge areas, and even the laundry room. In this space, the idea of “typical” didn’t exist. It was a beautiful reminder that being different was not unusual here—it was the norm. There was a sense of unity in this diversity, a powerful statement that excellence comes in many forms.