May Zhao interviewed of Baroness Tanni Gray Thompson

13th March 2022, For the closing of the Beijing Winter Paralympics, May Zhao interviewed Baroness Tanni Gray Thompson of the United Kingdom, a hero in the eyes of the British people. She has participated in five Paralympic Games, winning eleven gold medals, four silver medals and one bronze medal. In thirteen world championships, she has won six golds, five silvers and two bronzes. She has also won the London Marathon title six times. During her sports career, she broke more than 30 world records. She has visited China three times including attending the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics.

On the occasion of the closing of the 2022 Paralympic Winter Games, Baroness Tanni Gray Thompson said: Beijing is an excellent host city. The British team has had a solid performance. The Chinese team have had a great games. We must continue to work to provide young people with opportunities to participate.The following is the content of the interview （Q & A）.

Q:

1. What do you think about the Beijing Winter Paralympics?

2. How do you think the British team will compete this time?

3. How does the UK need to develop in the future of disabled sports?

A:

The winter games have been overshadowed partly by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It has been a difficult time for many athletes around the world. The Games themselves have not been easy to watch because of the time difference but it has been great to see elite sport again.

The last time Beijing had the summer games I was in the city and the atmosphere was amazing. It feels that we've missed so much sport in the last two years. It does feel slightly strange having the winter games six months after the summer games.

The British team have had a solid games. It is hard because we don't have much snow and the opportunity to participate in the UK.

The Chinese team have had a great games and it shows what you can do when you have the focus of a home games. Seeing successful athletes is good for motivation for others. It's hard to see any other nation come close to them

Our summer sports programmes are strong but we have to keep working to give opportunities to young people to participate. We're looking forward to Paris and LA