Since they began in Rome 1960 with 400 athletes, the Paralympics have spiralled. Beijing 2008 was the peak seeing over 4,200 athletes from 148 countries competing – many for the first time.  The British Paralympic Association commissioned these images with special coverage for the ARA.  What’s affecting is how quickly body appearances cease to be the focus. Awe switches from a Paralympian’s ability to overcome their handicap to the thrill of observing competitive sport.  But sadly divisions remain. The 2008 August games were covered by 2,700 NBC television employees. Later, when the Paralympics started, there were just five. As London 2012 looms, there is hope that lines between the games will be blurred by a common goal to be the best athlete in their field.