Leeds has rallied behind its local athletes as they prepare to compete for gold at the 2024 Paralympic Games.
The city of Leeds is once again on the global stage as members of its vibrant athletic community represent Great Britain at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Among the standout talents are Hannah Cockroft, a wheelchair racer from Leeds City Athletic Club, and Kadeena Cox, a cyclist who was born in Leeds.
Both athletes are seasoned competitors with previous Paralympic medals and are looking to continue their success in this year’s games. During the opening ceremony in Paris, the community proudly hailed these athletes as champions, celebrating their achievements in the eyes of the people of West Yorkshire.
Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council said:
“Every single person taking part in the Games, including those flying the flag for Leeds, should feel immensely proud of what they have achieved. We’ll be watching and cheering them on throughout an event that will illustrate once again how sport can bring people together and write inspirational stories.”
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung said:
“Leeds is a diverse and inclusive place where everyone is encouraged to make the most of their talents. This means we are very much in tune with the values of the Paralympics and I’m sure, therefore, that the whole city will want to wish our athletes the best of luck in Paris.”
The Paralympics GB team from Leeds is building on a legacy of success from the recent Summer Olympics, where Team GB collected an impressive total of 65 medals. Leeds itself boasts several Olympic medalists, including mountain biker Tom Pidcock, cyclist Katy Marchant, and rower Georgie Brayshaw, underscoring the city’s rich sporting heritage.
Anticipation and support for these athletes have been palpable back home. To celebrate their achievements, Leeds is planning an invite-only civic reception later this year, honoring both Olympic and Paralympic athletes. The council has promised to announce further details soon, ensuring the event aligns with the athletes’ busy schedules.
The 2024 Paralympic Games kicked off with a grand opening ceremony at two of Paris’s most renowned venues — the Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées — setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling showcase of skill, determination, and sportsmanship. The games will continue until September 8, offering ample time for new champions to emerge and inspiring stories to unfold.
As Leeds watches proudly, its athletes are not just competing for medals but are also embodying the spirit of their community, proving once again that they are champions in the eyes of those back home in West Yorkshire.
Best of luck to all the Paralympic athletes from Team GB, especially our champions from Leeds, as you compete in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Your hard work, determination, and spirit inspire us all. We’re behind you every step of the way as you strive for glory on the world stage.
Bring home the gold and make Great Britain proud.
Go Team GB! 🥇🇬🇧
