Q&A with Refugee Paralympic Team athlete Salman Abbariki

Salman Abbariki will compete in Para athletics as a member of the largest-ever Refugee Paralympic Team The Q&As have been edited for length and clarity 09 Jul 2024
Imagen
Salman Abbariki, a member of the Refugee Paralympic Team at Paris 2024, prepares to throw
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will take place between 28 August and 8 September 2024.
ⒸTobias Lackner
By IPC

1.    How did you get involved in sport? 

In 2003, I was at home watching a programme about disabled sports on TV. Since I was interested in sports, I followed up the next day, made some enquiries, and was offered a chance to participate in shot put training. From that day forward, I developed a great interest in this sport. 

 

2.    What is your biggest sporting achievement to date?  

I won a gold medal at the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games (shot put F34), held in China, and I also broke the Asian record (10.34m). After that, I achieved many successes including having the chance to participate in the London 2012 Paralympics.

 

3.    Was there one big moment that has been like a turning point in your life?  

The day I became Asian champion was an extremely special day for me, and I was able to see the results of my hard work.

 

4.    What was the biggest lesson you learned on your journey that others might be able to learn from you? 

I can tell people with disabilities that in no way should disability be a limitation to your progress.  You can be an inspiration in the lives of others.

 

5.    What does it mean for you to be on the Refugee Paralympic Team?  

Being on the Refugee Paralympic Team means that we can continue to achieve our dreams and succeed despite having to leave our countries, even when facing the most difficult circumstances.  

 

6.    What are your hopes for Paris?  

I hope I can get the best possible result and do it for my coach, who has played a big role in my successes since I arrived in Germany. 

 

7.    What message are you hoping to send to others? 

Make exercise a part of your daily routine, because it contributes greatly to a healthy and vibrant life. 

 

8.    What has sport meant to you and to your life? 

Sport brings me joy, vitality, and self-confidence. Sport has given me the hope and motivation to continue following my dreams and to strive to be the best.