Turnaround made for seamless Winter Paralympics

Starting on March 4, the Beijing Winter Paralympics featuring six sports and 78 events will take place in three competition zones－downtown Beijing, the capital's northwest Yanqing district and co-host Zhangjiakou.

A smooth turnaround from the Winter Olympics has been made to better serve the Paralympics as athletes arrive and venues are adjusted.

Venues transformed for Paralympics

Genting Snow Park

At Genting Snow Park in Zhangjiakou, course builders made adjustments immediately after the Winter Olympics concluded on Feb 20 in preparation for the para snowboard cross and banked slalom events.

Adjustments were also made to power supply systems and infrastructure to adapt to the needs of athletes and broadcasters.

With over 80 athletes from 22 countries and regions competing at the snow park, four barrier-free routes have been set up for athletes, coaches, media and spectators to ensure a complete barrier-free experience for all participants. In addition, an artificial limb and wheelchair maintenance center is on standby to provide assistance.

Images of the red lantern-styled Paralympic mascot Shuey Rhon Rhon have replaced those of giant panda Bing Dwen Dwen - the mascot for the Winter Olympics－at the snow park.

National Aquatics Center

In Beijing, adjustments have also been made to the National Aquatics Center in preparation for the wheelchair curling competitions. Also known as the "Ice Cube" for Beijing 2022, the center hosted curling at the Winter Olympics.

More accessible seats and toilets have been installed at the "Ice Cube", and will remain there permanently. Accessible ramps will cater to not only athletes and referees, but also journalists with disabilities at the media stand.

National Alpine Skiing

At the National Alpine Skiing Center in Yanqing, specially designed cable cars will cater to the needs of athletes with lower limb deficiencies.