What's happened
Jaco van Gass secured gold in the C3 3,000m individual pursuit at the Paralympics, just days after a car accident left him injured. The British cyclist triumphed over teammate Finlay Graham, marking a successful day for ParalympicsGB with multiple medals awarded.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Jaco van Gass expressed his initial heartbreak after the accident, stating, "I was heartbroken... I had a big cut on my head." The Independent echoed this sentiment, noting that he feared his Paralympic dream was over, saying, "I was literally like this could be my Paralympics done." Both sources highlight the emotional and physical challenges he faced leading up to the event, emphasizing his determination to compete despite the odds. The Independent also reported on the broader success of ParalympicsGB, with multiple medals awarded, showcasing the team's strength and depth in talent.
How we got here
Van Gass, a former soldier who lost his arm in Afghanistan, was involved in a car accident while scouting the road race course just before the Paralympics. Despite initial fears about his participation, he recovered in time to compete.
Common question
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What are the Highlights and Key Performances from the Paris 2024 Paralympics?
The Paris 2024 Paralympics have kicked off with thrilling performances and inspiring stories from athletes around the world. As the games unfold, fans are eager to know who the standout athletes are, what records have been broken, and how Team GB is faring. Here’s a look at the key highlights and performances so far.
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