More than 15% of the world’s population live with a disability and tonight we celebrate their athletic achievement with the Opening Ceremony of the 13th Paralympic Winter Games live from Beijing.
The first Paralympic Winter Games were held in 1976, where the total number of athletes was less than 200 representing 16 countries.
Tonight, Â more than 700 will be in Beijing for the 13th edition of the Games, including a nine-strong Australian team comprising seven athletes and two sight guides.Â
6.00pm 7NEWS Opening Ceremony Preparations | All the latest news from Beijing, live to reporter Matt Carmichael from the Birds Nest Stadium
11.00pm* Opening Ceremony 13th Paralympic Winter Games | Live on Channel 7, 7mate, 7TWO and 7plus (check local guides)
*All times AEDT