Prime Minister Janez Jansa on Tuesday hosted a reception for the team representing Slovenia at the Beijing Paralympics from 6 to 17 September. Jansa wished the athletes good luck and pointed out that their results were as important as those of Slovenian Olympic athletes.
"Every sport entails overcoming numerous barriers. This is especially true for athletes with disabilities...which is why you should serve as role models to others," said Jansa.
"The Paralympics might not be as much media attention as the Olympics, but your results are equally valuable," he added.
The athletes were especially pleased to hear that their financial rewards will match those of the Olympic athletes.
This year's 30-member team is the biggest since Slovenia first participated in the games for disabled athletes as an independent country in 1992. The participants will compete in seven different disciplines.
"Our athletes have always brought home some medals and I hope this year will be no exception," said Emil Muri, head of the Slovenian Sports Association for the Disabled.
Since 1992, the Slovenian Paralympic athletes have altogether won three gold, six silver and seven bronze medals.
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