The Lima 2019 Parapan American Games officially ended on Sunday night with the closing ceremony held at the National Sports Village's (VIDENA) Athletics Stadium.
The ceremony began with a video countdown and a pyrotechnic display.
Minutes after the beginning, the names of Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra and Americas Paralympic Committee Chairman Julio Cesar Avila were announced.
Subsequently, the Flag of Peru was raised to the sound of the National Anthem.
Inspiration
The first act of the event featured the Peruvian band Laguna Pai and their inspiring message.
Determination
Next, the flags of the participating nations entered the stadium and were placed to the sides of the stage.
Re-elected Athlete Representative Ileana Rodrigues (USA) offered a Milco statuette to representatives of the volunteers, as a thank-you sign for their invaluable contribution to the Games.
The scene ended with a Marinera duet.
Courage
Attendees enjoyed a concert by Peru's indie folk band We The Lion, followed by a look back to the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games with a video showing the most emotional and thrilling moments of the sporting achievements.
Later, Lima 2019 Organizing Committee Chairman Carlos Neuhaus and Americas Paralympic Committee President Avila gave their speeches and declared the Games officially closed. Thus, the APC flag was handed over to Chilean Undersecretary of Sports Andres Otero, whose country will host the Santiago 2023 Games.
Equality
Acclaimed Peruvian singer Eva Ayllon accompanied the extinguishing of the Parapan American Flame.
The scene featured the two child protagonists from the opening ceremony.
Party
Tonight's ceremony ended with a moment of celebration by Cumbia group Hermanos Yaipen.
About
In its sixth edition, the Parapan American Games arrived in Lima for the first time to keep shaping a tradition that had started back in 1999 with only four para sports: wheelchair basketball, Para athletics, Para swimming and Para table tennis.
More than 1,800 Para athletes showed their strength and courage in a competition gathering 30 countries, they participated in 17 Para sports and 18 disciplines.
From August 22 to September 1, people enjoyed each of the athletes' stories of courage and perseverance. They gave their best on the field because some of these events were qualifiers for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.
Published: 9/1/2019