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How Cybathlon Celebrated Assistive Technology

ZURICH — It was a virtual running race with obstacles. But it was no ordinary computer game.

Competitors controlled their race avatars on the screen using only their thoughts and no other body movement. Their thoughts were translated into virtual action through a cap with multiple electrodes fitted on their head. Much like athletes in shooting or archery, contestants needed a sharp focus. But the fact that they were quadriplegic set this race apart. People with severe motor disabilities had just successfully used a computer device through their brain signals.

Like in any other race, the winners were greeted with loud cheers from the audience.