What's happened
Teenage swimmer Poppy Maskill and Tully Kearney secured Great Britain's first gold medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Maskill set a new world record in the S14 100m butterfly, while Kearney won the S5 200m freestyle, marking a significant start for Team GB in the Games.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to BBC News, Poppy Maskill described her victory as 'unreal,' emphasizing the significance of being the first gold medallist for Team GB at these Games. The Guardian noted that Maskill's time of 1:03.00 not only secured her gold but also set a new world record, previously held by teammate Olivia Newman-Baronius. Meanwhile, Tully Kearney expressed her joy at winning gold after overcoming significant health challenges, stating, 'I really wanted redemption for Tokyo.' The Independent highlighted Kearney's determination, noting her battle with concussion and mental health issues leading up to the Games. These contrasting perspectives illustrate the emotional and physical journeys of the athletes, showcasing their resilience and dedication.
How we got here
The Paris 2024 Paralympics opened with high expectations for Team GB, featuring a strong squad of debutants. Poppy Maskill and Tully Kearney's performances highlight the potential of a new generation of British para-swimmers.
Common question
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What are the highlights and challenges of the 2024 Paralympics?
The 2024 Paralympics in Paris have kicked off with thrilling performances and emotional stories. As athletes from around the world compete, many are curious about the standout moments and the challenges faced by these incredible competitors. Below, we explore key highlights, individual performances, and the broader context of this prestigious event.
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What are the Highlights and Controversies of the Paris 2024 Paralympics?
The Paris 2024 Paralympics have kicked off with thrilling performances and inspiring stories from athletes around the world. As Team GB celebrates its first gold medals, questions arise about standout athletes, record-breaking moments, and the challenges faced by competitors. Dive into the highlights and controversies that are shaping this year's Games.
More on these topics
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The Paralympic Games or Paralympics are a periodic series of international multi-sport events involving athletes with a range of disabilities, including impaired muscle power, impaired passive range of movement, limb deficiency, leg length difference, sho
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Tully Kearney is a British Paralympic swimmer. Kearney competes in the S5, SB4, SM5 classification for swimmers with physical disabilities.
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Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, with an estimated population of 2,150,271 residents as of 2020, in an area of 105 square kilometres.