On Tuesday, 31 August 2021, President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinistö met by remote connection Finland’s Paralympic team competing in Tokyo.
President Niinistö congratulated the medallists and stated that sport is an intense struggle for podium places and results. “Perhaps the most important thing, however, is meeting people across all geopolitical boundaries, above ideologies, in a common cause and joint spirit. Today, this is hugely important. And you are creating it there in Tokyo and also at home”, the President said.
“Thank you very much for carrying the Finnish flag in Tokyo. We are following you here and applauding your successes, but we also feel deep sympathy for those who are unsuccessful. Everyone plays their part in this”, President Niinistö said.
Joint effort
Bronze-winning javelin thrower Marjaana Heikkinen said that the medal has been a long project involving the coach, team and support staff. “It’s a kind of joint effort that culminates in a few hours. The German pipped me for the silver, but maybe sometime I’ll take my revenge.”
Wheelchair racer Toni Piispanen won gold just a few hours before the remote meeting, bringing Finland its second medal so far. “Today was a great day,” Piispanen said, recalling how President Niinistö participated in awarding him his previous gold medal at the 2012 London Paralympics. “The more I age, the faster I go.”
Team leader Kimmo Mustonen said that there is still some way to go to reach the target of seven medals, but it is possible to achieve this goal. “We have six days of competition behind us, with five still to come. The current catch is two medals and six position points.”
Dressage rider Pia Reitti, wheelchair racer Amanda Kotaja and archer Jere Forsberg also shared their feelings at the meeting.
The Summer Paralympics are being held in Tokyo from 24 August to 5 September 2021. More than 4,400 athletes are competing in Tokyo, with 16 athletes participating from Finland.
