No real losers in Paralympics

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Source: CCTV.com | 09-11-2008 08:54

Competition is fierce for athletes striving to win, but they're encouraging each other. Our reporter Han Bin followed two extraordinary competitors at the National Aquatic Center. They regard each other as the strongest rivals, and compete in the same race.

The Water Cube, a place of miracles and hope.

30-year-old Chinese swimmer He Junquan, who won four gold medals in Athens, is competing in the men's 50 meters butterfly heat. His biggest rival is the 20-year-old Roy Perkins from the United States.

They both suffered similar tragedies, losing limbs in childhood accidents. But the Paralympic dream has given them wings to overcome difficulties and surpass themselves.

He Junquan, Chinese Paralympian

He Junquan finished 0.27 of a second after Roy Perkins. Both were qualified for the final. They say competition is a kind of support for each other.

He Junquan from China said "Since 2006, Perkins has been my major rival. "

Roy Perkins of USA said "I'm very impressed with his swimming. He's a great competitor, and I think it will be a good ce. I think it is a kind of happiness to swim with people in the same condition. No matter who wins the final, we all cherish the opportunity. I'll try my very best to win."

"I feel good, I feel good to have a really great competitor like him."

In the final competition, both are in the same lanes as they were in the heat. He Junquan needs to swim at least one arm length faster than others to win, as he needs to use his head to press the touch pad. This time, he finished third.

He Junquan fron China said "Well, the result is not all that important, as I have already tried my best."

"What's your next goal in life?"

"My next goal is still to strive for what I can to win. "

Roy Perkins, American Paralympian

Roy Perkins said: "It is really fulfilling, I've been waiting for this moment for a long time. My next goal is to continue to be strong and win more medals."

The Beijing Paralympics maybe He Junquan's last. He says the highest spiritual goal of Paralympics is to surpass dreams.

Roy Perkins has realized his dream in Beijing. And he's already aiming for the next Paralympics in London.

Two competitors from different continents, sharing a similar experience of hardship and perseverance.He Junquan and Roy Perkins, both know there can be only one winner. And for those who try their best, they also know, there are no real losers. And that's what the Paralympics are all about.

Editor:Xiong Qu