The emblem for the 2004 Paralympic Games was unveiled in December at the general assembly of the International Paralympic Committee.

"The emblem was created by the creative team of Athens 2004, and it reflects the four unique values of the 2004 Paralympic Games: Pursuit, Strength, Inspiration, and Celebration," said Athens Organising committee (Athoc) chief Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki.

The future is orange

The emblem features a white line-drawing of a human head with flowing hair, emblazoned on a fiery orange circle.

Athoc have taken on the dual role of organising both the 2004 Olympics and the Paralympics which will be staged in the same city following the main games.

The hosting of the Paralympics in Athens will necessitate widespread improvements in public facilities over the three-year preparation period

"This will contribute to the upgrading of the present infrastructure and the improvement of the quality of life of the inhabitants and tourists in Greece," said Angelopoulos-Daskalaki.

Upgrading Athens

"Athens will become a more friendly city to people with a disability and will offer them equal opportunities for participation and social integration."

Athoc have faced up to the financial challenge of a changed Paralympics after conceding that participants would not be charged to compete as they had been in previous competitions.

"We are committed and we promise that the 2004 Paralympic Games will be as technically impressive and diverse as the Olympic Games," said the Athoc chief.