Asphalt Green’s Post

🥇 This year, I had the privilege of attending the Paralympics and witnessed firsthand the extraordinary talent and determination of para-athletes. While my LinkedIn feed was buzzing with updates during the Olympics, there was a noticeable silence during the Paralympics.🤷♀️ It's a shame because the level of grit, resilience, and focus displayed by these athletes is nothing short of inspiring. [#Paris2024] One of the most incredible experiences was watching the athletes in the T11 class with visual impairment compete with such precision. These athletes run blindfolded, guided by a sighted runner who must remain perfectly in sync with them. The bond between the athlete and their guide is something to behold—each movement and breath perfectly coordinated. It’s not just about speed; it’s about trust, communication, and an unwavering connection. 👫🏃♀️➡️ The way they move together as one unit is a testament to human perseverance and the power of teamwork. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend reading more about how these athletes and their guides train and compete in this article: https://lnkd.in/eCjrW79j Let’s give these incredible athletes the recognition they deserve. Their stories are powerful reminders of what can be achieved through determination, trust, and partnership. 💖💖💖 #Paralympics #Inspiration #Athletics #Resilience #Teamwork

Did anyone else watch the Paralympics? I watched the highlights of the Olympics each day, so decided to do the same with the Paralympics. And am so glad I did! So many participants were grateful to have made it to the Paralympics and saw that in itself as the prize. Many recognised how far they had come following an event that significantly changed their life. I saw so many qualities that inspired me. Olympians clearly work hard to get where they are, but with Paralympic participants, it's on another level. There was so much resilience, bravery, and adaptability.  Imagine developing these qualities in the workplace. They would help you to face and overcome any challenge. You'd be capable of surpassing your goals. So what Paralympic quality would you like to embody more? #paralympics #consciousbusiness

If you're not familiar with the history of the Paralympics, this article is a great read about its inception and the importance of the incredible competition we have today. #AmeriHealthInsiders

Another valuable lesson the Corporate and Business world can learn from the Paralympics! Most businesses have Stars that go under the radar, and we should recognise them more! Thanks for sharing Matt Levy OAM :)

Cathy Anderson, Curtis McGrath’s life story is really something. It’s hard not to be moved by his journey from suffering the amputation of his lower limbs during a military operation to becoming a two time Paralympic gold medalist. His resilience and determination are truly inspiring. I think one of the most powerful lessons from McGrath’s experience is how he embraced his challenges. Rather than letting his setbacks define him, he used them as a springboard for personal growth. It makes me think about how we all have our own struggles, and maybe instead of seeing them as obstacles, we could try to see them as opportunities to grow. Another thing that stands out is how he found his passion in sports. For McGrath, sport wasn’t just a way to compete, it was a form of healing and a source of motivation. It really underscores the importance of finding something that drives us, something that gives us purpose and keeps us moving forward, even when things get tough. Setting goals also played a huge role in his success. His clear vision and determination kept him on track and motivated. It’s a reminder of how powerful goal setting can be, not just for athletes but for anyone facing challenges in their life. And let’s not forget the importance of support. His journey shows how vital it is to have a network of mentors, teammates, and supporters. We often underestimate the impact of having people around us who believe in us and help us along the way. The Paralympics are more than just a series of events, they’re a platform for advancing conversations about inclusion and diversity. Watching these incredible athletes break barriers and achieve greatness helps challenge stereotypes and push for a more inclusive society. It’s inspiring to see how determination and support can lead to such amazing accomplishments, and it reminds us of the potential in everyone when given the right support and opportunities

This post is for the almost Olympians, the almost Paralympians. I thought about writing about more about DroneGate or sharing some facts what happened in the Women's Boxing but instead I'm looking out for the almost Olympians, and also now that most para teams have been named, the almost Paralympians too. On my return-to-run run-walk this morning someone said 'You look like you're training for the Olympics.' My heart broke a little. While I know it was a compliment on my form and speed, I just did not know how to respond. I get up early in the morning, rub the doggo's belly, and immediately turn the TV on before I pour myself an americano. I watch in awe as all the athletes compete to the best of their ability not thinking 'should I' or 'could I be there.' But that comment shook me. The COC, Game Plan, and COPSIN sent extra mental health practitioners to help those at the games, but it seems like they left us almost Olympians and Paralympians behind to pick up the pieces on our own. I'm not going to comment if this promotes a win-at-all-cost environment, I want to think more on that, but I do know my fellow almost Olympian and almost Paralympians also need some support. Here's what you can do: - Please be sensitive when you make comments about the Olympics and Paralympics; you never know who was trying to make the team no matter how outside their shot. - Check in with your elite athlete friends. Really ask them how they are doing. 'How are you doing?' and after they answer 'tell me more about that.' - Go do other activities with you almost Olympian & Paralympian friends; help them try something new and find joy in other things in life. To all the almost Olympians and Paralympians, I see you. Let’s support each other and find new ways to shine.

What can others learn from Paralympian Curtis McGrath’s story of overcoming adversity? How can the Paralympics boost conversations — and action — around inclusion and diversity? Here are my thoughts. #LinkedInNewsAustralia I've met Curtis McGrath and he's a great bloke with an incredible story. With his German-made bionic legs he walked up the stairs to the podium to deliver a speech at a conference I was running. His approach and resilience and achievements captures the essence of what makes Australia great. For Australians, sport is a great leveler for conversations. We just watched in ore as the Australian Olympic team in Paris punched above their weight and returned 53 medals including 18 gold. We ranked 4th overall. Based on our population we deserve to rank 55th. On average we rank 8th across all Olympics. But when you talk Paralympics, that's another level up again. Australia ranks 6th on average across all games. The stories of our Paralympians help us appreciate not only their determination to overcome adversity, but to also highlight the human factor. At the end of the day we are all different but we are all the same in so many ways. Note: AI was not used to write this post;)

What can others learn from Paralympian Curtis McGrath’s story of overcoming adversity? How can the Paralympics boost conversations — and action — around inclusion and diversity? Here are my thoughts. #LinkedInNewsAustralia Yes. there are two wonderful things that happen with the Paralympics. One we can admire the wonder, skill, and commitment of these wonderful athletes. Hence encouraging diversity. Two, possibly more importantly, this competition gives paralympians hope. As they compete and succeed.

Humankind sets itself limitations all the time. But then someone comes along and reimagines what is possible. We have a whole team of Paralympians from Australia about to show us how they've reimagined what is possible on the world stage #ImagineWhatWeCanDo #ParalympicsAustralia #PublicisAustralia #LinkedInNewsAustralia