Haider all set for Paralympics opening ceremony in Paris

Pakistan's premier Paralympian, Haider Ali, will represent his country at the Paris Paralympics, proudly bearing the national flag during the Opening Ceremony at La Concorde and on Avenue des Champs-Elysées.

The 37-year-old athlete, a legend in Pakistani sports, made history at the Tokyo Paralympics by becoming the first Pakistani ever to win a gold medal. Ali will compete in the F37 category discus throw, scheduled for September 6.

Haider Ali recently clinched gold at the Para Asian Games 2023. After training in Islamabad, he continued his preparation in Paris upon arriving on August 26. Ali's historic achievements include winning a silver medal in Beijing in 2008 and a bronze in Rio.

Accompanying him in Paris are his coach, Akbar Mughal, and Chef de Mission, Ahmad Shami. The F37 category is for field athletes with moderately affected coordination and movement on one side.

At the last Paralympics in Tokyo, Pakistan's National Paralympic Committee sent two athletes. Haider Ali emerged as a medal favourite, while Anila Izzat Baig made history as the first Pakistani woman to compete at the Games, participating in the F64 Discus Throw.

This year marks the first time France is hosting the Paralympics, with Paris abuzz with excitement for the last five days. The city’s slogan, "Game [is not] over," is displayed widely, reflecting the anticipation.

The Mayor of Paris and her deputy held a press conference at the Paris Media Centre to outline preparations, ensuring the city is ready for the Paralympic events.

Most of the venues used for the Olympic Games have been preserved and adapted for the Paralympics, maintaining the momentum of the sporting extravaganza.