The mascot creator searched for an image that would portray the four unique values for the ATHENS 2004 Paralympic Games: inspiration, strength, pursuit, celebration. The mascot for the 2004 Paralympic Games is a sea-horse (hippocampus) named Proteas, from a divinity of the Greek mythology. The name embraces the notion of excellence that is a core notion of the Paralympic Games, as the athletes seek to overcome themselves in achieving even higher competition performances. The Greek word "protos" means first in rank, excellent.

(Credit: IPC. Click here for further information.)