21.20 last night the plane touched down at Okęcie Airport in Warsaw bringing back the best ever performing Polish Paralympic Team ever. 101 athletes across 11 disciplines; 36 medals – the 9th best team in the world, rank 3 in Europe and by far the leader of the pack in the Emerging Europe countries. A Great achievement.
I was very proud to have the opportunity to represent Ambassador Robin Barnett in the welcoming party. The arrivals hall, a mass of red and white. The Paralympic Association stand adorned with yellow balloons. A sunflower and special key to unlock the memories of London. A reception fit for the returning champions all enthusing about the Great British Olympics and Paralympics – London 2012. Such a friendly, open and welcoming Games.
A very emotional occasion. An event steeped in determination and glory. A Polish testament to the most integrated Olympic Games ever held. The London 2012 Olympics – a journey of sport, triumph and complete integration. The 3rd time the Games had been staged in London. The first time people had all come together in a unique celebration of sport without barriers.
The memories will last for ever. The Great British welcome. A calendar of sporting events over the last two weeks which had enabled Poland to assert its position in a tapestry of sporting excellence. The ‘wow effect’ of a truly British occasion. The most accessible games ever. The UK succeeding in changing the face of sport, taking it to new level. The Polish Paralympians on a quest for integration, driven by an inert passion to do the best for their country.
The British – Polish Paralympian journey. A British company Aviva which had recognised early the opportunity of the Olympics. A company dedicated to excellence and aspiration had supported many of the Polish Paralympic Team and their trainers in their quest for the best. The value of this an integral part of the achievement.
London 2012 – simply the greatest British sporting show on Earth. What a Great evening!