#USA Taekwondo

[taekwondolifemagazine]

[imashadowalker]

As I start writing this, I still feel the ghost ache of eyes red from crying.

Tonight, France Télévision - the public television company providing some of France's main TV channels - is diffusing, prior to the start of the Paralympic Games in a week, a documentary entitled "À Corps Perdus". This documentary is available as of this morning on the group's online platform. I finished watching this documentary about 20 minutes ago.

I do not cry often. A big part of it is that I've been fortunate enough to live a peaceful, mostly strife-free life. That being said, one of the things that can get me to cry is emotional, impactful writing or cinema.

I cried, watching this documentary, overwhelmed with emotions I'm not sure if I can make sense of. What overwhelmed me, I think, was the sheer beauty of humanity being displayed.

I do not believe in Gods. I've heard that everyone believes in something, that people need something to believe in. I've never really taken the time to think and figure out what, exactly, I do or do not believe in, but I've long had an instinctual answer to the question "what do you believe in?" : humanity. This undefinable quality of humankind that makes us capable of the worst of violences, but most importantly of the best of kindnesses, of the most incredible achievements.

Nothing awes me like the good people are capable of. "Good" seems like too weak a word to express the greatness of what humanity can bring about, but it is the right one. Seeing people come together, keeping a light glowing in the darkest of times, fighting cruelty with the most selfless kindness, claiming triumph over horrors thanks to the dedication of dozens, hundreds, thousands of individuals.

Nothing captures my attention and emotions like a human story.

Nothing overwhelms me like humanity.

I want to give many thanks to everyone who took part in the creation of this documentary, which I hope will play a key role in getting French people excited for the upcoming Games.

To all of the athletes out there taking part in the Paralympic Games in Paris or in future editions, I wish the best of luck, the greatest experience and the most wonderful emotions.

To Oksana Masters (US / Ukraine), Alexis Hanquinquant (France), Anne-Sophie Centis (France), Cédric Nankin (France), Gabriel Araújo (Brasil) and Zakia Khudadadi (Afghanistan / France) : my best wishes to all of you for these Paralympic Games.

Alexis, Anne-Sophie, Cédric, je vous souhaite la plus belle réussite sous les yeux de vos familles et de vos amis, avec le soutien indéfectible du public et de tout le peuple français.

Gabriel, I hope you get to take that photo under the Eiffel Tower.

Oksana, I hope you and your mother have the most wonderful time in Paris.

Zakia, je vous souhaite d'avoir tout le soutien du peuple français derrière vous ; que dans les tribunes du Grand Palais, des dizaines, des centaines de français scandent votre nom ; que puisque, concourant avec l'équipe paralympique des réfugiés, vous ne pourrez pas l'entendre depuis la plus haute marche du podium, le public chante pour vous La Marseillaise à chacun de vos matchs. Je vous souhaite, si vous le désirez également, de participer aux Jeux Paralympique de Los Angeles 2028 sous le drapeau français ; ou, peut être, si l'Histoire vous le permet, sous le drapeau afghan.

À tous ceux qui ont accès aux chaînes de France Télévision, je vous invite à regarder le documentaire À Corps Perdus, disponible en ligne, en replay, et diffusé ce soir (mardi 20 août) à 21h10 sur France 2.

À tous mes concitoyens français, je vous encourage à montrer le même engouement pour les Jeux Paralympiques que vous l'avez fait pour les Jeux Olympiques, à commencer par le relais de la flamme qui commencera ce samedi 24 août et traversera de nombreuses villes. J'appelle en particulier les Parisiens à venir nombreux encourager les athlètes lors des épreuves en pleine ville (triathlon, vélo sur route, etc.).

To everyone around the world, I call onto you to watch the Paralympic Games, which will start on August 28th with the opening ceremony, as much as you are able - even if it is just 30 minutes in total over the 2 week long event. Let us give this event the attention it deserves.

To my fellow French citizens, to our close neighbours from Ireland, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain - as well as Monaco and Andorra - and to all around the world who are able, I invite you to buy your ticket and come to Paris to cheer on the athletes and witness this event in person.

Many of us, and I am among this group, are or will be busy going back to school or work after summer vacation, giving us less time to pay attention to the Games as we had in August. Let us, to the best of our capacity, support the athletes by paying as much attention to their performances as we are able.

Aux français qui ont célébré les Jeux Olympiques avec d'autant plus d'enthousiasme que nous avons besoin, aujourd'hui, de raisons de célébrer et de nous rassembler, de ressentir notre appartenance à une seule et unique nation, faisons de ces Jeux Paralympiques les plus beaux de l'Histoire.

[makhonkit]

A Vlog, Birth of YouTube (UMass Taekwondo) Episode 30

Back in the days, around the time when YouTube was founded, before most of you were born, I used to Vlog a lot. I was a little ahead of my time because video sharing platforms were premature back then. I Vlogged so that I can remember my experiences back then. You'll get to know me better if you actually spend the time to watch this. If you do have the patience. 

 In Loving Memory of Kyu Cho and Family 

Episode 30 - UMass Taekwondo, Massachusetts, USA 

 Part 1 NYU Competition 

 Part 2 Mount Holyoke Performance 

 Part 3 David Yeo's Business Idea 

 Part 4 Just our normal practice 

 Year : Early 2007 

Location : New York and Massachusetts, USA

[actual-lich-queen]

In US media, kids learning magic is treated like an extra curricular (examples: Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Wizards of Waverly Place)

In the UK they get their whole education devoted to it (examples: The Worst Witch and Equal Rites)

[cybxr-nem3sis]

[UPDATE]

CALL OF DUTY: MW OC: Azura "Doberman" Lee

Former Navy Seals and also, trained to became CIA Agent by his adoptive parents, Doberman was one of the agents that CIA has ever had, He was highly effective agent with every mastery in every aspects. Until he graduated from Navy Seals and join CIA with his adoptive parents and take a second job as Cybersecurity specialist. For five years, Kate Laswell recruited Doberman to Task Force 141, to join them for another assignments.

GENERAL

Name | Adriansyah Saputra Nadhirizzky I Gusti Agung Putra Aditya Adhiarja Redjosentono

Alias(es) | Azura(nickname given by his adpotive parents), Ardi or Mas Ardi( by his neighbours and friends)

Callsign | Doberman

Occupation | CIA, Navy Seals(formerly, discharged) Task Force 141, Matrial arts instructor, Cybersecurity Specialist/hacker.

Gender | Male

Birthday | February 14th

Nationality | American

Race | Mixed races, half Indonesian-American, half korean-japanese

Rank | Lieutenant(TF141), Operations Officer(CIA)

Place of Birth | New York, USA

Spoken Languanges | English is his second languange, He is mr. worldwide himself because he's a polyglot.

Sexuality | Bisexual

APPERANCE

Eye color | Ruby red

Hair color | Natural black

Height | 7'0/213cm

Build | kinda-bulky muscular

Blood type | A

Scars | on right eyes, left cheek, and side of his lips

Tattoos | Full on both arms and hands, 4 on the waist, 1 on the chest, and full back tattoo on his back

Fancast | Hiroyuki Sanada

FAVORITES

Color | Red

Food(s) | Jjangmyeon and katsudon

Drink | Rosemary tea

Song | Doin' time by Lana Del Ray

Flower | Rose

Hairstyle(s) | Manbun for casual days, ponytails for missions, and untied for works.

PERSONALITY

James bond like Personality, ISTJ | Doberman is highly intelligent, exceedingly cunning and diabolically independent. He also sensiable, calm, mature and sly. Although everyone always saw him as stoic and intimidating indivisual.

Loyal and Strong | Doberman is someone who consistently demonstrates honesty, reliability, and integrity. By keeping promises, maintaining confidentiality and acting ethically.

Intelligent | He is a man who is flexible in his thinking and can adapt to changes, he think before they speak or act, snd able to effectively manage his emotions.

Intimidating | Doberman always described as intimidating figure often overly domineering and cause others to feel threatened, overwhelmef or even scared.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Fighting style | Taekwondo, Karate, Commando Sambo, Capoeira, Brazillian jiu-jutsu, Pencak silat, Krav Maga, Judo

Weapon | Glock and Beretta gun

Distinct weapon | M-9 Bayonet for a fast movement and agility

Special Skills | Flexibility, communication, Espionage, exploiting computer hacker, Translator.

FAMILY

Status in family | Second oldest

Adoptive siblings | Jessica Smith Anderson, Liam Smith Anderson, Lucas Smith Anderson, Oscar Smith Anderson

Father | Evander Smith Anderson, retired CIA Agent, and iscurrently working as bartender

Mother | Ava Smith Anderson, retired CIA Agent, and is currently working as Doctor

Relationship | Being second oldest after Lucas, Doberman truly loves his family so much, he always understanding and protective indivisual to them. as become CIA Agent to grant Evander, his freedom.

Pet | Has a Doberdane (Doberman-Great dane mix dog) named Bolt.

CHARACTERS THAT BASED TO;

James Bond from James Bond series

Balalaika[Sofiya Pavlovna] from Black Lagoon

Jotaro Kujo fron Jojo Bizarre Adventures

Yor Forger from Spy x Family

Caveira[Taina Pereira] from Rainbow Six Siege/R6S

Black Widow from Avengers

Jessica Rabbit from Who Censored Roger Rabbit

John Mclane from Die Hard

John Rambo from Rambo series

Kiryu Kazuma from Yakuza series/Ryo ga Gotoku

TRIVIA

Doberman is a man, who has big and unbelieveable appetite, he sure eats alot of foods, buy he also aware to keep his body stay healthy

Despite his intimidating and stoic exterior, Doberman is good with kids! They're always see him as father/brother figure

a big an of metal bands and kpops

He likes to cooks! he can LITERALLY cook anything, Doberman wouldn't mind to cook you a meal

Sly as a fox and smart as a snake, that is everyone say to Doberman's personality. He always cunning man, who always clever at planning what he wants

After graduated middle school, Doberman and his adoptive parents decide to moved to Indonesia, Jakarta. Where Doberman continue his Junior ighschool to University.

Join a Paskibraka in Indonesian when he was 15 years old.

While staying in Jakarta, when he was a little boy, Doberman always like to plays in the middle of the rains with his childhood friends, until he get sick.

Spicy foods lover, especially Seblak.

When Doberman accidently hurt or suprised, he always let out a cursed in each languages, mainly Indonesian or Japanese.

Doberman likes to tied his hair than let it rest on his shoulder.

Background Story

Born and abandonned in the Street of New york, Azura had always felt like an orphan, left in the street of New York City since he was a newborn. Growing up on the streets, he was no stranger to a life of hard knocks and never knowing where he would find his next meal or a safe place to rest.

He eventually joined the Navy Seals when he came of such young age. His skills and determination earned him a reputation of excellence, and a discharge with honors. He settled in America and soon enough his dedicated attitude was noticed by an unlikely source - ex-CIA agents.

The agents, impressed with his military background, saw the potential in him and decided to do something extraordinary. They adopted him. This was the start of a new, more secure life for Azura and a chance at a better future.

The missions he undertook were never easy, and his courage and skill saved thousands of lives. Thanks to Azura's converted status and adopted family, his life had come full circle.

Trained in the ways of espionage, Azura quickly rose through the ranks to become a full-fledged CIA agent. His ability to crack codes and negotiate peace was second to none. Yet, he felt something was missing. He decided to take a second job as a cybersecurity specialist. His work brought him into the public eye, and soon enough he caught the attention of Kate Laswell, the leader of Task Force 141.

Laswell begged him to join the elite unit and promised that his skills would be put to good use. Azura agreed and for the first time, he felt a real sense of belonging. Sworn to secrecy and honor, he worked alongside the greatest minds in the world, protecting the freedom of the people of the United States of America.

--------------------------------------------------

[maddmuses]

Kwon HC posts before I get started (boy I hate how tumblr stretches images for basically no good reason)

Born April 4 2001

Kwon Jae-Sung is the son of a South Korean diplomat, not a high-ranking one, but high enough that he could get out of trouble for pretty much anything that would constitute a misdemeanor

At a young age Kwon was taught the fundamentals of taekwondo and "yankee boxing" from his grandfather (a 6th dan in taekwondo) before he had started fighting. This contact was cut-off by Kwon's father when school fights started to become concerns (around age 12). If Kwon were assessed by an objective reader he'd probably be determined 1st Gup or Dan (Red or Black Belt)

Kwon is essentially a bully from the get-go, his father (and grandfather's) mentality was that the strong are right naturally by merit of that strength, even if his father believes more in "soft strength" while Kwon essentially started hitting other students the second he was given more autonomy at school

Kwon has been involved in school fights since early on, and would frequently bully and harass other students into submission, through this lens of "strong and weak", essentially demanding submission from the weak, and challenging those he saw as strong, including older boys

He's been expelled from 15 private schools and 2 public ones in the course of his pre-college education, he has also avoided approximately 22 misdemeanor assault charges, and had 2 felony charges reduced to misdemeanors with fines and anger management

Kwon began at the Kim Dojang after hearing about it around a year following his cut-off from taekwondo, and repeatedly badgered his father (at one point threatening to kill himself if he was not allowed to practice martial arts again) at the age of 15

Kwon was generally discouraged by the dojang's blatant favoritism toward students of legacy, and broad dismissal of many of his early achievements, which later manifested in his (general) behavioral issues

Prior to the start of season 6 (so sometime in 2018) Kwon achieved 1 dan in Kim Sun-Yung's "Kwondo" (Way of The Fist) style of Tang Soo Do. This level of achievement has been exceeded as he was promoted to 2 dan in the time between taking the guem baeji, ast he dojang more formally converted to Cobra Kai under sensei Kreese.

Kwon is a natural southpaw, but over time has trained to be functionally ambidextrous in his fighting. He does, though, favor his left foot for fighting, and tends similarly to spin left so that his 720° spin kick with the heel of his left foot, rather than the right foot as traditional. This favoring his left side slightly also can extend to when he intends to strike with his full power, in which case it is always with the left. To obscure his left-handedness from the enemy, he will often square up when in a fight, or falsely assume a slightly orthodox-biased stance (which in modern day is misinterpreted to indicated right-handedness for most)(clip of his fight v the trio where you can see this functional ambidexterity with slight left-bias at-play, you can see most of his kicks are leftie, and his strongest punches/strikes are delivered from the left-side)

After the Sekai Taikai Kwon intends to enlist and complete his compulsory military service, before attending post-secondary education in the United States, and then further seeking out tournaments to win in adulthood. His intended field of study is English and at least one other foreign language, as well as business management

He is mildly conservative by USA standards (but not on that bigot shit, he's considered a hyper-liberal by modern SK male standards) but is generally considered to be apolitical

Kwon's personal investment in the Sekai Taikai has little to do with any loyalty or reverence he has towards his teachers, but intends instead to establish his own dominance and feed his own pride , while still following the framework his father and grandfather taught him, of showing the weak to their place, and proving himself to be stronger than all others

[nct-liz]

⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪ Introducing NCT K!SS : member profiles

Home » Kpop co-ed Groups » NCT K!SS Members Profile and Facts

⟡ ݁₊ . STAGE NAME : Soojin

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHNAME : Seo Soojin

⟡ ݁₊ . POSITION : Leader, Lead dancer, vocal

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHDATE : March 9th 1998

⟡ ݁₊ . ZODIAC SIGN : Pisces

⟡ ݁₊ . CHINESE SIGN : Tiger

⟡ ݁₊ . HEIGHT : 164cm

⟡ ݁₊ . BLOOD TYPE : O

⟡ ݁₊ . MBTI : ISFP

⟡ ݁₊ . NATIONALITY : Korean

⟡ ݁₊ . REPRESENTATIVE EMOJI : 🍒

⟡ ݁₊ . INSTAGRAM : @/_seosootang

Soojin Facts:

Her hometown is Donghwa-ri, Bongdam-eup, Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, S. Korea.

She has a younger sister, named Yejin (born in 2005).

Education: Korea Arts High School (Music Department).

She became a trainee in 2016.

Audition piece: BoA‘s “No.1”

Her representative emoji in the group is Cherry

Because her mom insisted, she started learning jazz dance when she was little.

She used to do taekwondo.

Her father didn’t want her to become an idol but she begged him for 2 years.

She was casted when she was in third year.

She likes convenience store food like hamburgers, gimbap, packed meals, sandwiches and ramen.

Her nickname is cherry.

She really likes Marilyn Monroe and has her on her wallpaper.

⟡ ݁₊ . STAGE NAME : Yena

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHNAME : Choi Yena

⟡ ݁₊ . POSITION : Lead rapper, lead dancer, center

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHDATE : September 29 1999

⟡ ݁₊ . ZODIAC SIGN : Scorpio

⟡ ݁₊ . CHINESE SIGN : Rabbit

⟡ ݁₊ . HEIGHT : 162cm

⟡ ݁₊ . BLOOD TYPE : A

⟡ ݁₊ . MBTI : ENTP

⟡ ݁₊ . NATIONALITY : Korean

⟡ ݁₊ . REPRESENTATIVE EMOJI : 🐤

⟡ ݁₊ . INSTAGRAM : @/yena.jigumina

Name Facts:

She was born in Gil-dong, Gangdong, South Korea. Currently, her family lives in Gwangju.

Education: Hanlim Multi Art School.

Her older brother is Sungmin of SPEED

She took dance classes at Joy Dance Academy, where she did  hip-hop dance.

She has 3 dogs named Audrey, Ganjang and Bibi.

Yena has her own tamagotchi named Ganjang (same with her dog).

Her talent is playing claw machines.

She can play the guitar.

She can speak Chinese, and Japanese.

She can drive a van, car, motorbike, bicycle, and hoverboard.

She loves skateboarding.

Her charming point is her lips.

Her favorite ice cream flavors are strawberry and chocolate.

She is known for looking like a duck.

Her hobbies are reading books and watching movies.

She loves to create gestures and choreographies.

⟡ ݁₊ . STAGE NAME : Xiaoting

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHNAME : Shen Xiaoting

⟡ ݁₊ . POSITION : Main dancer, rapper

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHDATE : November 12th, 1999

⟡ ݁₊ . ZODIAC SIGN : Scorpio

⟡ ݁₊ . CHINESE SIGN : Horse

⟡ ݁₊ . HEIGHT : 168cm

⟡ ݁₊ . BLOOD TYPE : AB

⟡ ݁₊ . MBTI : ISFJ

⟡ ݁₊ . NATIONALITY : Chinese

⟡ ݁₊ . REPRESENTATIVE EMOJI :

⟡ ݁₊ . INSTAGRAM : @/whosxiaoting_

Name Facts:

– She graduated from Sichuan Conservatory of Music University, Department of Performance.

– Her nicknames are Ting and Sojung.

– Her Korean name is Shim Sojeong.

– Her hobbies are watching movies and dramas, photography, playing games, cooking, reading, visiting restaurants, and shopping.

– Her speciality is dancing.

– Xiaoting likes to sleep in and watch TV while lying on the sofa.

– She thinks her charming point is her personality.

– Xiaoting says when she works or studies she is very strict with herself and seeks perfection.

– She thinks she looks like a Shetland Sheepdog as they are loyal, smart, reliable, hardworking, are able to help others, and she can participate in beauty pageants.

– She loves all colors.

– Her favorite animal is a puppy.

– Some of her favorite things are mint chocolate, her necklace, winter, all types of weather, pouring sauce, texting on phone, the sea and seasonsed chicken.

⟡ ݁₊ . STAGE NAME : Yunjin

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHNAME : Huh Yunjin

⟡ ݁₊ . POSITION : Lead vocal, rapper

⟡ ݁₊ . BIRTHDATE : October 8th, 2001

⟡ ݁₊ . ZODIAC SIGN : Libra

⟡ ݁₊ . CHINESE SIGN : Snake

⟡ ݁₊ . HEIGHT : 172cm

⟡ ݁₊ . BLOOD TYPE : B

⟡ ݁₊ . MBTI : INFJ

⟡ ݁₊ . NATIONALITY : Korean-American

⟡ ݁₊ . REPRESENTATIVE EMOJI :

⟡ ݁₊ . INSTAGRAM : @/jenaissante

Name Facts:

– She grew up in the USA and moved back to South Korea in order to become a trainee.

– Yunjin attended Hanlim Multi Art School with

– Favourite foods: Roasted sweet potatoes, yogurt, seaweed, cheese, and pizza.

– Prior to becoming a trainee, Yunjin trained in opera.

– She is fluent in English.

– Nicknames: Jen, Destruction King (due to her clumsiness)

– She can play the ukulele, piano, and guitar.

– Yunjin started taking opera lessons in middle school.

– Favourite sports: Baseball, MMA and field hockey.

–  Watching BTS win at the American Music Awards made her consider being an artist in the Korean music industry instead of the American music industry, and it also made her have great pride as a Korean and encouraged her.

Liz's profile

[deadpoets]

15 questions, 15 friends tagged by @gr63wdc, thank you for tagging me :)

are you named after anyone? nope

when was the last you cried? i think it last week when i was stressing over my medieval lit midterm

do you have kids? nope

what sports do you play/have you played? i was in taekwondo when i was a little kid and then i used to be forced into doing swimming in the summer

do you use sarcasm? very much so yes, a little too often maybe

what is the first thing you notice about people? i don't actually know, maybe their eyes ?

what is your eye color? brown !

scary movies or happy endings? happy endings, i love a happy ending <3

any talents? to be completely honest, i'm not sure i have any talents ?

where were you born? usa

what are your hobbies? gif making, reading, watching shows/movies, journaling

do you have any pets? no :( i did when i was a kid and i somewhat want a pet now but i'm not sure i could handle it

how tall are you? 5 feet (and like maybe 3/4 of an inch or something ?)

favorite subject in school? i always loved english the best

dream job? i want to be an author :)

tagging: @ohwarnette @henwilsons @maddiebuckley @permanentreverie @delilahsbard @jeanmoreaux @pallases @andorerso @thisainttexas @acotars @sydneyadmu @dlndjarin @astromechs @pittsiepie @danielsousa (no pressure <3)

[yeonniesong]

LEE  FELIX?  não!  é  apenas  YEON  SONG,  ele  é  filho  de  ÍRIS  do  chalé  14  e  tem  VINTE  E  TRÊS  anos.  a  tv  hefesto  informa  no  guia  de  programação  que  ele  está  no  NÍVEL  I  por  estar  no  acampamento  há  DOIS  anos,  sabia?  e  se  lá  estiver  certo,  YEONNIE  é  bastante  LEAL  mas  também  dizem  que  ele  é  MEDROSO.  mas  você  sabe  como  hefesto  é,  sempre  inventando  fake  news  pra  atrair  audiência.

　　　conexões　⋆　spotify　⋆　pinterest　⋆　ooc　　

　　　　　　　task one　⋆　point of views　

nome  .  yeon  song apelido  .  yeonnie aniversário  .  17  de  julho espécie  .  semideus ocupação  .  pintor idiomas  .  inglês,  coreano  e  francês equipes  .  corrida  de  pégasos,  clube  de  artesanato,  co-líder  da  equipe  azul  de  esgrima 

cabelo  .  atualmente  usa  ele  comprido  e  loiro,  gosta  de  fazer  tranças olhos  .  castanho  escuro altura  .  169  cm faceclaim  .  lee  felix 

gênero  +  pronomes  .  homem  cis,  ele  /  dele orientação  sexual  .  homossexual alinhamento  moral  .  leal  bom qualidades  .  leal,  honesto,  carinhoso,  justo,  criativo defeitos  .  inseguro,  indeciso,  teimoso,  tímido,  medroso

maneirismos  &  hábitos  .  ele  evita  olhar  nos  olhos  das  pessoas  que  não  tem  intimidade.  está  sempre  com  fones  de  ouvido,  mesmo  sem  ouvir  música.  geralmente  tenta  passar  desapercebido  nos  lugares,  odeia  ser  o  centro  das  atenções.

gosta  .  doces,  taekwondo,  fazer  compras,  anéis,  cozinhar desgosta  .  conflitos,  estresse,  calor  excessivo,  sustos,  pesadelos

poder  . tem  a  habilidade  única  de  manipular  emoções  através  do  espectro  de  cores.  cada  cor  no  arco-íris  representa  um  aspecto  de  luz  e  uma  emoção  ou  um  grupo  de  emoções.  com  seu  poder,  ele  consegue  controlar  e  influenciar  as  emoções  de  outras  pessoas  ou  objetos  ao  seu  redor.

arma.  a  lâmina  é  feita  de  ouro  imperial,  polida  até  um  brilho  que  reflete  a  luz  em  um  tom  dourado.  suas  bordas  são  afiadas  e  bem  trabalhadas,  com  um  leve  toque  de  elegância.  mas  é  o  cabo  da  espada  que  realmente  chama  a  atenção.  ele  tem  um  design  complexo,  com  uma  superfície  suave  e  ergonômica  para  proporcionar  um  bom  equilíbrio  ao  guerreiro  que  a  empunha.  a  cor  do  cabo  é  de  um  negro  profundo,  mas  é  encrustado  com  uma  grande  opala  multicolorida.  a  pedra  emite  um  espectro  de  cores  vibrantes,  incluindo  tons  de  azul,  verde,  vermelho  e  dourado.  conforme  a  luz  incide  sobre  ela,  as  cores  dançam  e  se  transformam,  criando  um  efeito  hipnotizante  (não  mágico,  é  só  muito  bonito  mesmo). 

biografia.

Poucas  coisas  no  mundo  conseguiam  acalmar  o  espírito  inquieto  de  Íris,  mas  Jiwoo,  filha  de  Hipnos,  era  uma  delas.  O  relacionamento  entre  as  duas  era  uma  mistura  de  carinho  e  cuidado,  onde  Jiwoo  oferecia  a  Íris  um  lugar  seguro  para  desacelerar,  fosse  em  sonhos  ou  em  momentos  de  intimidade.  Era  um  relacionamento  simples,  mas  intenso.

O  dia  em  que  Jiwoo  apareceu  grávida  pegou  Íris  de  surpresa,  mas  ela  acolheu  a  notícia  com  alegria.  Quando  chegou  a  hora  do  nascimento,  a  deusa  estava  lá,  segurando  a  mão  de  Jiwoo  enquanto  um  garotinho  saudável  dava  seus  primeiros  choros  ao  mundo.  Foi  um  momento  mágico,  porém  o  mundo  dos  deuses  e  semideuses  é  cheio  de  complicações.  Íris  não  podia  se  aproximar  do  filho  quanto  gostaria,  mas  sempre  que  podia,  visitava  Jiwoo  e  o  menino  em  seus  sonhos,  trazendo  presentes  nos  aniversários.

O  garoto,  chamado  Yeon,  cresceu  conhecendo  sua  origem  e  sabendo  do  mundo  que  o  cercava.  Era  um  legado  de  Hipnos  e  filho  de  Íris,  uma  combinação  que  às  veze  chamava  a  atenção  de  monstros.  Jiwoo  o  ensinou  a  lutar,  a  usar  a  mente  e  os  punhos,  e  ele  aprendeu  artes  marciais  desde  cedo.  Era  parte  da  preparação  para  a  vida  no  mundo  dos  semideuses.  Durante  a  Guerra  de  Cronos,  Jiwoo  o  escondeu,  achando  que  ele  era  jovem  demais  para  se  envolver.  Mas  na  Guerra  de  Gaia,  Yeon  não  aceitou  ficar  à  margem  e  lutou  ao  lado  da  mãe,  protegendo-a  enquanto  ela  o  protegia.

Depois  da  guerra,  a  paz  era  um  conceito  frágil.  Yeon  tentou  voltar  a  uma  vida  normal,  mas  as  guerras  deixavam  marcas  profundas.  Ele  revivia  os  piores  momentos  em  seus  sonhos,  as  perdas,  as  lutas  e  os  momentos  em  que  sua  mãe  quase  morreu.  Os  pesadelos  eram  tão  intensos  que  seus  poderes,  ainda  descontrolados,  às  vezes  afetavam  a  mãe,  causando  dano  emocional.  Foi  então  que  Jiwoo  decidiu  levá-lo  ao  Acampamento  Meio-Sangue,  onde  ele  poderia  receber  tratamento  e  aprender  a  controlar  seus  poderes.

A  tragédia  aconteceu  logo  depois.  A  saúde  de  Jiwoo  começou  a  se  deteriorar  devido  a  uma  doença  degenerativa.  Nem  mesmo  os  curandeiros  do  acampamento  ou  as  orações  de  Yeon  puderam  impedir  o  inevitável.  A  partida  de  Jiwoo  deixou  Yeon  devastado,  e  sua  dor  foi  projetada  para  todo  o  acampamento,  afetando  todos  ao  seu  redor.  Quíron  providenciou  um  bracelete  de  ouro  para  bloquear  parte  do  poder  de  Yeon,  ajudando-o  a  controlar  suas  emoções  e  não  afetar  os  outros.

Para  lidar  com  o  luto,  Yeon  decidiu  passar  um  ano  no  Acampamento  Júpiter,  onde  se  concentrou  na  pintura.  Suas  telas,  repletas  de  emoções,  ganharam  atenção,  e  ele  começou  a  ganhar  dinheiro  com  suas  obras.  A  arte  tornou-se  sua  forma  de  lidar  com  todos  seus  sentimentos,  ainda  que  ele  não  buscasse  a  fama.

Em  2023,  um  sonho  com  Íris  o  fez  retornar  ao  Acampamento  Meio-Sangue.  A  deusa  disse  para  ele  "voltar  para  casa",  sem  mais  explicações.  Embora  Yeon  estivesse  confortável  em  Nova  Roma,  sentia-se  mais  conectado  com  sua  mãe  no  Acampamento  Meio-Sangue.  O  retorno  foi  pacífico  até  que  a  profecia  de  Rachel  trouxe  à  tona  a  ameaça  de  outra  guerra.  As  lembranças  dolorosas  voltaram  com  força,  e  o  sono  do  neto  de  Hipnos  tornou-se  tão  escasso  quanto  água  no  deserto.

[literallytataposts]

👮🏻‍♀️

Basic Info:

Full Name: Anna Williams

Nickname: Annie, The Crimson Fury

Age: 25

Date of Birth: July 15th

Time of Birth: 10:00 AM

Place of Birth: New York City, New York, USA

Gender/Pronouns: Female, She/Her

Species: Human

Likes: Training, fighting, justice, pizza, rock music, Kill Bill, The Lord of the Rings

Hobbies: Training, reading, watching movies, traveling

Physical Traits + Appearance:

Alive/Dead: Alive

Height: 5'7" (1.70 m)

Weight: 132 lbs (60 kg)

Hair Color: Dark brown

Hairstyle: Long, straight hair, usually tied back in a ponytail

Eyelashes: Long and thick

Eyebrows: Arched and well-defined

Face Shape: Oval

Eye color: Brown

Other Characteristics:

Most Used Phrases/Words: "I won't give up", "Justice will prevail", "Come at me", "I'm not afraid of you"

Title: The Crimson Fury

Zodiac: Cancer

Sense of humor: Sarcastic, ironic, dry

Relationships:

Friends: Johnny Cage, Kung Lao

Enemies: Shao Kahn, Shang Tsung, Quan Chi and Noob Saibot

Family (and family dynamics):

Father: Richard Williams (deceased)

Mother: Elizabeth Williams (deceased)

Sister: Maya Williams (complicated relationship)

Best Friends: Johnny Cage

Close Friends: Kenshi Takahashi and Kung Lao

Abilities:

Fighting Style: Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Judo

Skills: Expert martial artist, skilled in hand-to-hand combat, weapons training

Entertainment:

Favorite movies: Kill Bill, The Lord of the Rings, The Matrix

Favorite TV shows: Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad, The Walking Dead

Favorite book: The Lord of the Rings

Other Favorites:

Favorite food: Pizza

Favorite drink: Beer

Favorite place: Her training dojo

Favorite animal: Wolf

Favorite color: Red

Favorite song: "Enter Sandman" by Metallica

Favorite band: Metallica

Favorite sports team: Manchester United

Favorite weather: Sunny and warm

Favorite season: Summer

Favorite holiday: Christmas

Backstory:

Anna Williams was born in New York City to Richard and Elizabeth Williams. She has one older sister, Maya Anna's parents were both martial artists, and they trained Anna and Nina from a young age. Anna was a natural fighter, and she quickly excelled in martial arts.

When Anna was 18, her parents were killed in a car accident. Anna was devastated by their death, and she blamed herself for not being able to save them. After her parents' death, Anna became withdrawn and angry. She dropped out of school and started fighting in underground tournaments.

One day, Anna was approached by Sonya Blade, a Special Forces officer who was looking for recruits for a secret tournament called Mortal Kombat. Anna agreed to join Sonya's team, and she traveled to Outworld to compete in the tournament.

In Mortal Kombat, Anna fought against some of the deadliest warriors in the world. She defeated many of her opponents, but she was ultimately defeated by Shao Kahn, the Emperor of Outworld. However, Anna's courage and determination impressed Shao Kahn, and he spared her life.

Anna is a skilled martial artist and a fierce warrior. She is also a loyal friend and a compassionate person. She is determined to protect the innocent and fight against evil.

[saltpepperbeard]

15 QUESTIONS FOR 15 FRIENDS

I was tagged by @adickaboutspoons, @xoxoemynn, @bizarrelittlemew, @darkinerry, @sleepystede, @gentlebeardsbarngrill, @ofmd-ann, and @kiwistede! Thank you for the tags, beloveds. We're holding hands rn 💖

ARE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?: I think my parents got the idea from a local newscaster? If I recall correctly??? But I wouldn't say I was named after them; more like ✨inspired by✨ sdhjksfhsk

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?: I've teared up a few times this week because Uterus (derogatory) hsdjklsd girls (gn) who get it Get It, but the last time I fully cried was a few weeks ago.

DO YOU HAVE KIDS?: NAUR. Just a bunch of Plant Sons™

WHAT SPORTS DO YOU PLAY/HAVE YOU PLAYED?: I played soccer when I was really little, did a little bit of Taekwondo in elementary school, and competitively swam in middle school and high school!

DO YOU USE SARCASM?: Absolutely not :/

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?: I feel like I notice ✨vibes✨ above all else. I notice if someone has a more welcoming/friendly personality, or if they're a little more closed off/harder to read.

WHAT'S YOUR EYE COLOUR?: Blue 🔵👄🔵

SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?: Happy Endings! Anxiety dictates that my brain will turn my clothes and furniture into humanoid shapes in the dark shdjksds, PLUS IT'S ALREADY HARD OUT HERE; NEED ALL THE HAPPY ENDINGS WE CAN GET 😭

ANY TALENTS?: Writing has been a particular strong suit of mine from an early age, but I also have knacks for a lot of creative things, like digital audio, photography, video editing, etc etc!

WHERE WERE YOU BORN?: USA (DEROGATORY)

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?: Going for walks/being out in nature, writing whenever I have the sPOONS FOR IT, gif-making, playing video games.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS?: Just my plants ✌️😔

HOW TALL ARE YOU?: 5'7"

FAVOURITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL?: Art, but I really loved Science (except for chemistry) and English, too!

DREAM JOB?: ✨I simply do not dream of labor✨, lest I could somehow get paid for my hyperfixations or for Vibing HSDJKLS

I am quite late to the party with this one, so if you're seeing this and would like to participate, tag, you're it! 💖💖💖

[taekwondolifemagazine]

It’s Olympic Taekwondo Week

[tae-rhymeswithslay]

All numbers that when squared are over 20 😈

omg so like all of em 💀💀

5. 2/26/07 yep 07 babyyy 💪💪

6. my gf🙌 love her so much!

7. all the dudes on my taekwondo team legit would not have survived high school without them

8. my girlll!!!!

9. yessssss!!!!!

10. already amswered this one but i love this korean sausage called soondae

11. “get up loser im gonna do ur hair” to my sister

12. 💯

13. black-brown (asian 👊😔)

14. caffeineee

15. ooo literally changes all the time but rn i really like “Death By Rock And Roll” by The Pretty Reckless but i also LOVE “Yummy” by Ayesha Erotica especially the righteous remix (Ayesha my QUEEN!!)

16. literally all reptiles! (but i an partial to turtles for obvious reasons) also alligators- ik theyre reptiles, i just love em enough for a special mention.

17. GREEN!!!! 💚💚💚

18. Size 5

19. nah, my sister has a recording of me singing california gurls and i think that enough ammunition for her 💀💀

20. go back in time to strangle some sense into my freshman self (i was an idiot)

21. every time ive ridden a roller coaster

22. USA USA USA RAGHHHH WHAT THE FUCK IS A KILOMETER 🔥🔥🔥🔥🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🦅🦅

23. a sister. not up for adoption unfortunately . i had a hamster in 7th grade but its gone now RIP fly high ripred 🕊️

24. maybe? its a little early for that lmao

25. SCIENCE 🧪 🧫 🧬

26. this awful awful dude. omg i have so many stories about this dickwad💀 he was a shit hickey player, like i think they legit kicked him off the team. he was a shoplifter and hes banned from our local mall bc security recognizes him by face. He had this insufferable superiority complex bc he was like, into philosophy? whatever. hes gone now

27. alot 💀 uhhh where do i start- im short as shit thats for sure. my voice is unnaturally high pitched, so much so that i get confused for a woman over the phone literally all the time- sometimes in person too 💀💀

28. prefer not to answer

29. MYYYYY GIRLFRIENDDDDD ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️and all my friends and my sister and my cousin (platonically ofc). my cousin is like the only person in my extended family that i actually enjoy being around

30. my gf 👊😔 (im literally seeing her in like 20 minutes lmao)

31. pink 💀 i lost a bet u guys- but its like growing out pretty nice

32. TAKEN ❤️🥰🤝🥰❤️❤️❤️🤝🤝🥰🥰

33. YUMMY RIGHTEOUS REMIXXXX

34. monotony

35. ehhh kinda? its a nice though to think my loved ones are still watching over me even though theyre gone, but at the same time im a man of science

36. getting misgendered or mistaken for a transmasc dude (omfg like im cis this shouldn’t be freaking happening)

37. House. JK YALL KNOW ITS 2012 TMNT 🔥🔥🔥

38. MUTANTTTT MAYHEMMMMMM but also deadpool and wolverine

39. 1984

40. same question twice? i also like skinny cut fries👊

41. digital artists. yall. what the freak. u guys are just absolutely insane with ur talent.

42. PICIES 🐟🐟🐟(according to my gf. i actually do not know)

43. Tae-hyun (no not like the bts guy… sighhhhh, yes like the TXT guy)

44. smoking lol- kicked it a while ago tho

45. 1 and thats 1 too many imo

46. not gonna share that here lol- starts with a V

47. taekwondo, jiujitsu, figure skating, skateboarding

48. umm i can lick my elbow 💪

49. oh jeez ummmm i made a super explicit sex joke and then turned around and my english teacher was just. right there.

50. im tryna get into college for biochemistry and i want to eventually go into research pharma

jeezus beezus dorky omg 💀💀

@dorky-pals

[upontherisers]

the (debatable) mota-lympics list

as the ultimate olympics head it’s my duty to make the mota x paris 2024 content i want to see in the world so here are my headcanons for the 100th bomb group as team usa olympians

bucky - high jump (alt: pole vault/triple jump)

buck - taekwondo

rosie - triathlon

curt - boxing

brady - swimming (100m & 200m butterfly + relays)

demarco - singles’ tennis (alt: skateboarding/surfing)

ev, dougie, kidd, crosby - quadruple sculls (alt: 4x100 swimming medley relay)

hambone - water polo

crank - fencing (sabre)

lemmons - sport climbing (speed)

helen - swimming (100m breast, 100m & 200m back + relays)

tatty - rugby 7’s

alex - artistic gymnastics (all-around and rings)

macon - men’s road race cycling (alt: 400m hurdles)

harding - ex-nfl quarterback HOFer turned commentator 

bubbles - pole vault (alt: synchro 3m springboard diving w/ cros)

veal - rugby 7’s

quinn - artistic gymnastics (parallel bars)

this list is very debatable and i want to hear everyone’s thoughts because i love the olympics and there are so many delicious choices for these guys.

[privilege-rpg]

OLIVIA WASHINGTON

☆ FULL NAME: Olivia Octopush Washington �� GENDER: Ciswoman ☆ PRONOUNS: She/Her ☆ AGE: 30 (March 10th, 1994) ☆ TYPE: Adopted sibling; solo (open to twin) ☆ HOMETOWN: Miami, Florida ☆ JOB: Professor of Screenwriting and Film Studies at PSU;  part-time voice actor/staff writer ☆ SCHOOL: PSU Alumni ☆ SEXUALITY: Lesbian ☆ FACECLAIM: Elizabeth Lail

ABOUT OLIVIA

(tw stalking, attempted kidnapping, attempted murder)

Olivia “Liv” Washington was adopted alongside another sibling after Roz won two Olympic medals at the Atlanta Olympic Games in 1996. As the oldest of the two, Liv’s middle name was given to her for the first event that Roz won her medal for that year: a silver medal for octopush, where she was the entire USA team. She was adopted at two years old and learnt pretty quickly how important sports were to their new mom. However, much to Roz’s chagrin, Liv had absolutely zero interest in any of the sports Roz tried to get her involved with, far more comfortable with her notepads or sketchbooks, often found at her sibling’s games with one of them balanced on her lap and her tongue poking out of the corner of her mouth.

Roz’s disappointment in her more artsy choices was palpable and made their relationship very tense as a result, Liv hating that the mother that had picked her seemed to think she was a failure just because she didn’t want to get into sports. Still, Roz’s objections aside, Liv continued her creative pursuits and found that she loved both drama and writing equally, soon setting her sights on being able to pursue both in her future career. She starred in several school productions, including a raved about run as Viola in a ninth grade production of Twelfth Night which landed Liv her first ever acting gig at fourteen. The roles came thick and fast after her initial role in three episodes of Desperate Housewives, Liv going on to have small roles in many popular 2010s shows such as Grey's Anatomy, The Walking Dead, Homeland, and The Americans, and while Roz might not approve of the direction her daughter had chosen to take her life, she couldn’t deny that she was successful.

However, not long after Liv booked what would have been her breakthrough role in a major Marvel movie, her life took a sudden and very dark turn. See, Liv had never really adjusted to her own fame, used to being known as “Roz Washington’s daughter”, exposed to the spotlight to an extent, and therefore had not prepared herself for the more sinister side of being the latest “it girl”. Which is why, after leaving her high school graduation party at eighteen, Liv was not expecting a stalker to be waiting outside for her. In what would become the most terrifying moments of her life, the man attempted to kidnap Liv, playing out some twisted delusion that he was rescuing her, but she fought back viciously, managing to scream for help. Spooked by her fight, the man changed tact and repeatedly stabbed Liv before peeling off in his car, leaving her for dead in the bushes outside the party.

Liv got lucky, a friend having heard her screams and coming running out, managing to get a partial plate as they called an ambulance, but she barely escaped with her life, spending a few days on a ventilator, and it left her with a series of physical and emotional scars that have never really healed. Liv immediately pulled out of acting, wanting to disappear completely and never be seen again, to never be in that position again. It took a long time for her to heal physically, but once she did she went to Roz and asked her to hook her up with the best martial arts trainer that she knew. It became a great outlet for her and all the complicated and intense emotions she was feeling, and while she never competed, Liv did become proficient at Krav Maga, Taekwondo, and kickboxing.

After a lot of intense therapy (therapy that she still has now but not as frequently) Liv decided to attend PSU, wanting to still pursue her dreams, but now preferring to be behind the camera than in front of it. Still, it took a long time for her to venture out into the world again which is why she ended up doing a masters as well; it wasn’t really necessary for her career but Liv liked the privacy and security that PSU offered after having spent the first two years since the attack holed up in the family home and becoming something of a hermit. She’d stayed in contact with her friends from her acting days, and when she was ready to head out into the glitz and glam of Hollywood with her script portfolio they were there waiting for her.

Four years into her blooming career after several different gigs under a showrunner friend of hers, Liv decided to return to PSU once more, this time to teach her passion to the next generation, wanting to encourage them in the same way that she wished Roz had encouraged her. However, that being said, things are a lot easier with her mother than they had ever been, whether it was because of the attack and almost losing her, or the fact that Liv had picked up some kind of sport even if it had been born of a necessity to protect herself rather than compete, Liv chooses not to pull too hard at that thread.

Now in her second year of teaching, Liv finally feels comfortable in her own skin for the first time in twelve years and over the summer has been tentatively dipping her toe back into the acting world with some voice acting work. Maybe this will be the year she finally gets back into dating too, after so long of not being able to look at herself in the mirror in case she saw the scars on her chest and stomach.

FAMILY BACKGROUND

Roz Washington wants only one thing in life, greatness. As her father taught her “If at first you don’t succeed, pack your bags.” It’s the mantra that has motivated her throughout her life. When she fell into swimming at an early age she found a talent that she would harness and win. Since winning her first medal in the junior events it’s a feeling she chases in every aspect of her life. Although she began her career in lane swimming she soon found her competitiveness and need for her father’s approval turned sour in the pool and she took her anger out on her competitors. An event she would rather soon forget especially when she tried to drown poor Beatrice Singh from France at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

Cue her redemption ark in the four years leading up to Barcelona 1992 where she found her true calling in Individual synchronised swimming, winning a bronze medal. She always revels in the glory days of her competitive career and comeback that she has found unique ways to commemorate her achievements. The primary one being a child for every medal she has won. She has a number of adoptive children because who can lose valuable time training for gold. She can often be seen adorning one of her medals with every outfit she wears and don’t ask her to share experiences of the Olympics or you might just hear about the time she had a threesome with Michael Phelps.

Since swimming Roz went on to become a New York Times best selling author with her Biography “Head Above water,” a world renowned motivational speaker and currently she can be seen as part of the women’s TV panel show The View.

[atotaltaitaitale]

.

The end… for the second time in a month.

We needed those two weeks in between so we could miss you, Olympics, but after the Closing Ceremony on August 11, we knew deep down that we would get to experience all that joy again for the Paralympics. This time it’s really the end. We need to go back to our lives and you have timed it perfectly with La Rentrée.

While the Olympic Game and the Paralympic Game are 2 different entities and managed by 2 different committees, Paris2024 wanted the Paralympics to be a true extension of the Olympics. For the first time the emblem (a golden circle with a white flame inside, a stylized rendition of Marianne) and the motto (Games Wide Open/Ouvrons Grand les Jeux) were shared by both events, and even the Olympic and Paralympic mascots were the same: the famous (infamous?) Phryge, albeit an able-bodied Phryge for the Olympics and a prosthetic Phryge for the Paralympics.

While Paris was hosting the Olympics for the third time, it was actually the first time the city had hosted the Paralympics (France has hosted one Winter Paralympics in 1992 in Albertville, while the next one will be in 2030). In fact, the Paralympics began in 1948 with a small gathering of British veterans of the Second World War at Stoke Madeville Hospital (hence why the Paralympics flame is lit there) on the opening day of the 1948 Summer Olympics in London. But the first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960, and since then they have been held in the same year as the Olympic Games, but in a different city or even country. Since 1988 in Seoul, the Paralympics have been held immediately after the Olympics in the same city and using most of the same venues. Bidding to host the Olympic Games means bidding to host the Paralympic Games as well.

The Paralympic Games have a tremendous track record of transforming host cities and countries, improving the lives of people with disabilities and all those with accessibility needs and acting as a catalyst to improve accessibility. In France, since 2008, able-bodied and Paralympic medalists have received the same amount of money depending on the medal won [NB: since 2021 for the USA paralympiques!]. Since the London 2012 Olympics, guides (para-athletics, para-triathlon, para-cycling and para-triathlon) who accompany visually impaired or blind athletes have also been rewarded with a medal when the athlete reached the podium. The Paralympics are here to drive change in the world and drive this "inclusion revolution".

To say that Paris2024 was amazing is an understatement. But there is something even more special about the Paralympics. Yes all athletes are super-humans but Paralympians are a cut above and we got to see 4,400 athletes from 168 delegations compete in 549 medal events across 22 sports. I've always admired Paralympians but after attending even more events this time than at the Beijing2008 games, I’m in total awe of their abilities beyond their disabilities. The words I heard the most often at the events: Incredible. Unbelievable. Amazing. Everyone seems to be in admiration of the athletes. You can't help but be in amazed when you are in the stands of Paris La Defense Arena cheering the athletes of the Para swimming events or astonished by the complete silence of 12,000 spectators in the Stade Eiffel Tower for Blind football followed by an eruption of applause when a team scores a goal (any team for that matter… although the cheering might be slightly louder when Team France is on the field), that’s also where I got to experience a silent, slow ola where the public rose to their feet in a gentle, synchronised way to create a perfectly silent Mexican wave. The Grand Palais was as packed as for the Olympics for para taekwondo or wheelchair fencing, both events I attended. I couldn’t not go to the gorgeous Para equestrian venue on the grounds of the Palais de Versailles and got again to do the Silent Applause: a very important part of Para Equestrian that encourages the fans to cheer without distracting the rider and the horse. As I never make it to the French Open, the Men's single medals in wheelchairs tennis were the events that finally took me to the mythic Roland Garros central court. I’m not a huge fan of tennis in general (I know the players, and follow the Grand Slam from afar) but the Gold/Silver match between Japan's Tokito Oda (Gold Medalist) and Britain's Alfie Hewett (Silver Medalist) was a real treat and kept us on the edge of our seat for three sets. I may have to look for wheelchair tennis events to watch in the future. Finally one cannot experience the Games (Olympic and/or Paralympic) without attending at least some of the Athletics events at Stade de France. The atmosphere on the final night of the game was electric.

The Olympics are always very popular and well televised but the Paralympics tend to be a bit less enthusiastic and not as well-followed (often due to the lack of media coverage unfortunately). In Paris, however, there were huge crowds at the venues, and local fans not only supported the French athletes, they cheered on athletes from all over the world and made sure the athletes felt welcome. As IPC President Andrew Parsons mentioned in his closing ceremony: For a country famous for its fashion and food, France is now famous for its fans. With more competing countries, more women and more global coverage than ever before, Paris 2024 has set a benchmark for all future Paralympic Games.

With 10 Paralympic and 4 Olympic events, I've had a busy summer in Paris and I’m so glad we’ve decided to stay in town and experience the Games. And yet, there are so many more sporting events I would have love to have seen, especially for the Paralympics: wheelchair rugby, sitting volleyball, wheelchair basketball, etc, etc. Who knows if I’ll ever live again in a city hosting the Games. Twice was already great.

From Tony Estanguet's closing ceremony speech: This summer, France had a date with history, and the country showed up. France dared to imagine things that had never been done before: the first Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic and Paralympic Games outside a stadium, the first marathon open to all, the first Games in the heart of the city. France dared to believe in the power of sport.

With the Games, we rediscovered our heritage, our creativity and our capacity to achieve great things. We rediscovered our joie de vivre, our impertinence at times, and above all, all the positive energy that exploded in the stands! These Games will have been an encounter between France and itself. The France that smiles. The France that loves itself. The France that we are proud of. The France that breaks records: Olympic medal records, Paralympic medal records, Spectator records, Audience records, Atmosphere records, “Allez Les Bleus" records.

From Olympic Rings to Paralympic Agitos… Everything must come to an end but memories last forever.

PS: There was no “addressing the elephant in the room” with the Paralympics Opening Ceremony… it was just perfect; although seeing the gorgeous sunset as the Paralympics athletes walked down the Champs Élysées towards the Place de la Concorde was slightly bittersweet as it reminded us of what the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony could have been like (if it hadn't rained that evening).

Edit: Paris2024 sold 12 millions tickets. 9.5 for the Olympics and 2.5 for the Paralympics!!