Paralympics kick-off in Rio tonight
Much expectation has fallen onto the shoulders of the 2016 SA team
RIO will once again burst into life this evening as the 2016 Paralympics kick off at 10pm (CAT).
But the Games also made headlines for different reasons.
Poor ticket sales and the ban of all Russian athletes topped the list, with many experts suggesting the Paralympics faced its biggest crisis in its 56-year history.
Some venues in Rio have been closed after the recent Olympics, some services cut back and various travel giants not paid in time, therefore depleting the number of volunteers.
But there was a small glimmer of hope after an announcement this week that ticket sales had risen to 1.5 million.
A campaign to #FillTheSeats by buying them for local children has also helped with the spectator issue.
Sir Philip Craven, the president of the International Paralympic Committee said that organisers told him there was sufficient resources to put on a good event.
Several finals are now sold out.
While there are still around one million tickets available, the rhythm of sales suggests that all 2.5 million tickets will eventually be sold.
South Africa
The South African team has 45 individuals competing in 10 different codes – archery, athletics, canoeing, cycling, equestrian, power lifting, rowing, swimming, shooting and wheelchair tennis.
Much expectation has fallen onto the shoulders of the 2016 team after SA claimed 29 medals in London.
Top South African athletes to look out for are Ernst van Dyk (cycling), Lucas Sithole (wheelchair tennis), Hilton Langenhoven (athletics), Zanele Situ (javelin) and the surprise package, 14-year-old Ntando Mahlangu (100m and 200m sprints).
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