Drama at the marathon – athlete disqualified shortly before the finish

The Paralympics ended today, Sunday. But one of the last competitions was dramatic once again.

At the finish, Spaniard Elena Congost was still celebrating her bronze medal at the Paralympics. But later it became clear: the marathon runner would leave Paris without a medal. Two meters before the finish, Congost let go of an elastic band that she must always touch. This band connects the visually impaired runner with her companion.

But she did so for good reason. Her guide, Mia Carol Bruguera, got cramps and stumbled shortly before the finish. Congost tried to support him, but in doing so he briefly let go of the rope. But the rules state in Article 7.9.5 that athletes are not allowed to let go of the connecting rope at any time during the competition.

Much to the annoyance of the Spaniard Congost, the organizers were strict in their interpretation of the rules. “They didn't disqualify me because of an infringement, but because I'm human,” said the disappointed para-athlete after her disqualification, adding: “It was a reflex that you have when someone falls to the ground.”

Misato Michishita (Japan) received the bronze medal in her place. Michishita finished in fourth place.