North Swindon MP and Minister for Disabled People Justin Tomlinson has praised Team GB Paralympians after an incredible performance at the Tokyo Paralympic Games.
Team GB Finished 2nd on the medals table with 124 medals – 41 gold, 38 silver and 45 bronze. The strong performance saw GB Paralympians win medals in a greater range of sports than any other country has before.
A number of experienced GB Paralympians continued to build on their incredible careers, such as Dame Sarah Storey, who won her 17th Paralympic gold in a sporting career that has spanned nearly 30 years, competing in two different sports at 8 different Paralympic Games; and Horse rider Lee Pearson winning his 14th gold medal.
However, there were also impressive displays from debutants, with 56% of athletes making their debut at the Games winning a medal – including: long distance runner Owen Miller, who secured gold in the T20 1500 Meters; Afghanistan veteran Jaco van Gass won the C3 3000m individual cycling pursuit; and swimmer Maisie Summers-Newton, who claimed two golds on her debut in the 200m individual medley - SM6, and 100m breaststroke - SB6.
Justin Tomlinson said: “I want to say a huge congratulations to Team GB’s Paralympians, who have made the whole country proud. I am in awe of their drive, determination, and dedication to push themselves at this level. I absolutely do not underestimate the challenges overcome or the sacrifices made by them in pursuit of their Paralympic dreams. They truly are heroes, and I am confident this success will continue into Paris 2022.”
