The Paralympic Games took center stage in London, England, from August 29 to September 9. An estimated 4,200 people with disabilities came from more than 160 nations to compete. The Paralympics began in 1960 and are held every four years, after both the Summer and Winter Games. Take a look at just a few of the events and athletes that captured the hearts of fans around the world.

Fireworks light up London’s night sky at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Paralympic Games, on August 29. It took 3,250 volunteers to coordinate the event. The show included 73 performers who are deaf or disabled.

Britain’s Mickey Bushell whizzes across the finish line to win the gold medal in the final men’s 100-meter race. The 22-year-old wheelchair racer blew away the competition but fell just short of breaking his own world record.

Germany’s Vanessa Low competes in the women’s long-jump final. The 22-year-old athlete ranked sixth in the event.

Brazil’s Felipe Gomes, left, competes in the men’s 200-meter semifinal race. Gomes, who is blind, ran with his guide, Leonardo Souza Lopes. Gomes went on to win gold in the 200-meter finals. He and his guide stood together on the podium at the medal ceremony.

Britain’s Eleanor Simmonds swims to win gold in the women’s 200-meter race. The 17-year-old athlete was born with dwarfism.