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Paralympic Opening Ceremony Torchbearer Falls, Gets Right Back Up in Inspirational Moment
Former Brazilian para-athlete Marcia Malsar proved during the Paralympic opening ceremony that when you fall, you have to get right back up!
Malsar was carrying the Olympic torch during the opening ceremony as heavy rain poured down. The rain made the ground very slippery, causing Malsar to fall inside of Maracanã Stadium.
Malsar, Brazil’s most decorated para-athlete, immediately got back up and picked the torch off the ground. The former runner didn’t let the misstep stop her and she continued to walk with the flame to light the Paralympic torch.
Easily the most moving moment in #Paralympics opening ceremony. If you fall, just get up & carry on. Never be afraid pic.twitter.com/z86dDL0yKG
— Jasvir Singh ਜਸਵੀਰ جسویر जसवीर (@_JasvirSingh) September 8, 2016
Many people applauded Malsar for her drive and positive attitude about the situation, calling her an inspiration.
https://twitter.com/TOFilmFiles/status/773704592509005825
Marcia Malsar falls but gets up to finish her Paralympic torch relay leg tonight. Crowd roared. Inspirational moment pic.twitter.com/gCjfvu1Hdt
— Nick Zaccardi (@nzaccardi) September 8, 2016
https://twitter.com/ChristianRad/status/773684622135848960
The president of the International Paralympic Committee, Sir Philip Craven, applauded the para-athletes, sharing that the Paralympics would “bring a new perspective to everyone in this country by showing that the human spirit knows no limits.”
Although the Paralympics have been overshadowed by poor ticket sales, budget cuts, and the drama of the Olympic games, Malsar’s moment proves that the athletes are not giving up.
“They will surprise you, inspire and excite you, but most of all they will change you,” shared Craven.