Winter Paralympics Opening Ceremony takes place in Sochi

Saturday, March 8, 2014

The 2014 Winter Paralympics officially opened last night in Sochi, Russia. The ceremony was attended by Russian Federation leader Vladmir Putin. 45 nations are competing, including Argentina, Kazakhstan, the United States, Mexico, Armenia, Brazil, Ukraine, and Russia. During the speech about values to be upheld during the Games, sexual orientation was mentioned. There were no direct mentions of the situation in the Crimea region of Ukraine, whose 31-athlete-strong delegation participated in the parade of nations with only their flag bearer. During a press conference earlier yesterday, the Ukrainian Paralympic Committee President said the team had two or three options they were considering for the Opening Ceremony.

The United States team enters the arena.
Image: Laura Hale.

Ukraine's flag bearer enters the arena to a loud roar.
Image: Laura Hale.

Ukraine's flag bearer enters the arena to a loud roar.
Image: Laura Hale.
The Argentinian and Kazakhstani delegations watch the opening ceremony following the parade of nations.
Image: Laura Hale.
Valdmir Putin welcomes the athletes.
Image: Laura Hale.
The Paralympic flag enters the arena.
Image: Laura Hale.
The Paralympic flag is raised and the show continues.
Image: Laura Hale.



Sources

 
Wikinews
This article features first-hand journalism by Wikinews members. See the collaboration page for more details.
 
Wikinews
This article features first-hand journalism by Wikinews members. See the collaboration page for more details.