Leader hails para-athletes as 'symbol of realizing potentials'

Making the remarks in a Wednesday meeting with para-athletes who gained medals in the 2018 Asian Para Games, the leader added, "all of us, in all ages, and especially the youth, should learn from you."

He went on to say that para-swimmer Shahin Izadyar's six gold medals in the event are a clear manifestation of one's inner capabilities and their fulfillment.

"All humans have some talents which are sometimes ignored. You have won medals, and have become champions; so you are manifestations of activating capacities."

Ayatollah Khamenei stressed that everyone regardless of their age should follow the disabled athletes for they are epitomes of determination and willpower, he held, adding, "You shined at this field despite physical challenges. That is why I say achievements by you the disabled war veterans and differently-abled athletes are worth twice as the championship of those without physical problems. Your championship represents firm, manifold determination."

"You are doubly influential in inspiring the people to do sports. The motivation you arouse in them is two-fold," the leader stressed.

Ayatollah Khamenei appreciated the display of cultural power by a female athlete who bore the flag of Iran's sports caravan to the Asian Para Games while dressing in Iranian chador, saying, "Your self-confidence in fortifying your cultural heritage was extremely important.

Source: Mehr