LOS ALAMITOS, Calif — Based off a recent poll on Instagram, 76%  of Los Alamitos High School students watched the 2024 Olympics, while only 15% reported watching the 2024 Paralympics. What is more appealing about the Olympics? Although Paralympic viewership has increased in recent years, it still is not as popular compared to the Olympics.

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Lily Zimmerman

Pie chart of the Olympic viewership amoung LAHS students based on a recent Instgram poll.

“I think it’s really cool that (Olympic and Paralympic athletes) use their abilities to do what they do,” said LAHS freshman Claire Sim.

The Olympics and Paralympics are athletic events that take place over the span of a few weeks and are designed for those who are competing at the highest level in their sports category. They both have summer and winter games that take place every four years in a different host nation. This year, the Olympics and Paralympics were both held in Paris, France.

“I think (the Paralympics) levels the playing field (because) it gives everybody with non-typical abilities the chance to show what they can do. It shows that overcoming adversity is a real thing, and it gives [Paralympians] the space to compete,” said LAHS track and field coach Mr. Howard.

The Paralympics have expanded to include 23 countries, represented by 4,400 different athletes who will be competing in 22 sports at 18 venues across Paris. Athletes will compete for the chance to win a first-place gold medal, second-place silver or third-place bronze. 

The Paralympic Games kicked off with an opening ceremony on Aug. 28 over the Champs Elysees and Palace de Concorde. The event started with fireworks illuminating the sky with red, white and blue (the colors of the French flag). Team USA was represented by two flag bearers, basketball player Steve Serio and volleyball player Nicky Nieves. Following tradition, singers and performers took the stage at the opening ceremony, including Christine and the Queens. 

“I think the opening ceremony looked really cool,” said LAHS freshman Isabela Freijo.

Make sure to tune into the Paralympics from now until Sept. 8!