his summer Atlanta
hosted not only the world's largest sporting event but also its
second largest. While the 1996 Summer Olympic Games were seen
on television by millions, the Paralympic Games, which showcase
athletes with disabilities, attracted relatively little media
attention. Yet the level of competition at both events was impressive.
China's Hou Bin, for example, set a world record by jumping 6
feet 3 inches (1.92 meters) -- on one leg.
GEORGE VALCARCE |
In both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Ithacans made their presence known. The College was represented by one Olympic competitor and a large group of professionals who helped support the athletes, run the show, and provide media coverage. Here, some of them recall realities the cameras didn't catch.