Blind athlete Lilo Lubisic has learned to make the most of every opportunity-even adversity-competing in the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games on October 20.
The Yugoslav-born, Canadian-trained athlete entered the discus throwing, finishing in fourth place. Lubisic said that she was happy just to have the opportunity to compete. “That is winning,” she said.
Lubisic has been awarded 178 medals and awards during her 16 years of competing, and holds current world records in discus and shot put. She has competed in four paralympic games.
As a Seventh-day Adventist Christian, Lubisic trains for six days a week and takes a break on Saturday, which Adventists observe as a Sabbath, or day of rest. “Sabbath has never been a problem,” says Lubisic. ” I have never had to participate on Sabbath. If that were to change, I simply wouldn’t compete.”
“Sydney has put on the best games ever,” says Lubisic, who between competitions tours as a motivational speaker. “The crowds are inspiring and the volunteers have made us athletes very welcome. I want to come back some day.”
The Paralympic Games, held every four years following the Olympic Games, began on October 18 and will run for 12 days. The event has attracted some 4000 athletes from 125 countries, who are competing in 18 sports. Six disability categories are represented.