XYZ OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE PARALYMPIC MOVEMENT ISSUE NO. 2 | 2016

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Special Rio 2016 Preview Edition THE EYES OF THE WORLD ON RIO Latin America’s first Paralympics

RZ_Paralympian_COVER_02_2016_final.indd 1 13.07.16 12:35 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 3

“During Rio 2016 the world is going to witness incredible feats of skill, endurance and speed from athletes that many thought was unimaginable years ago.”

After more than seven years in the planning, Latin change their views about what a person with an America’s fi rst are almost upon impairment can achieve in life. us. Four years ago, one in three British adults – Before you know it, September will be here and equivalent to 20 million people – changed their the eyes of the world will be on as attitudes toward people with an impairment as a billions tune in to watch Para athletes once again result of 2012. With more countries than inspire and excite the world. ever before set to broadcast the action from Brazil, I expect Rio 2016 to further cement the Paralympic It is fair to say that in the lead-up to these Games, Games’ position as the world’s number one sport- Rio 2016 has faced more challenging circum- ing event for driving social inclusion. stances than any other Organising Committee previously. Despite this, I am fully confi dent the In the coming weeks, in addition to concluding our Games will be a tremendous success and, without preparations for Rio 2016, the IPC will be working doubt, the best ever in terms of athletic perfor- hard with the International Olympic Committee mance. (IOC) to fi nalise our latest agreement, the princi- ples of which we agreed in June. Over the last four-year cycle we have seen multi- ple world records broken and huge improvements This new long-term agreement, which will take us across all sports. This is testament to the outstand- through to 2032 and extend our co-operation to ing work of National Paralympic Committees and a fourth decade, is hugely important for the the International Federations and I cannot wait for whole Paralympic Movement. It will increase the the sporting action to begin. visibility of the Paralympic brand and ensure the fi nancial stability and long-term viability of the It is amazing to see what the human body can IPC, the Paralympic Games and the Paralympic achieve when tested to its absolute limits and I Movement. think that during Rio 2016 the world is going to wit- ness incredible feats of skill, endurance and speed I hope to bring you more news about the agree- from athletes that many thought was unimaginable ment soon. years ago. Enjoy the magazine and I hope to see you in Rio. It is these mind-blowing acts that will trigger those watching the Games on TV around the world to Sir Philip Craven MBE

Sir Philip Craven, MBE IPC President 4 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 CONTENTS CONTENTS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 5

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06 PARALYMPIC NEWS 10 #ASKANATHLETE 11 DIGITAL BONUS

Find out about a new agreement between the Amanda Reynolds and Anne Dickins are set Athletes took over the @Paralympics IPC and IOC, as well as the latest on Rio 2016 to face off in canoe’s Paralympic debut. Insta gram account to share their behind-the- broadcast coverage from around the world. scenes training pictures for Rio 2016.

12 RIO 2016: 20 ATHLETE PROFILES 32 WORLD SPORT ONE GIANT LEAP FOR ROUND-UP 30 THE AMERICAS

After 20 years of gradual growth, what Get to know the athletes going for gold at Rio A look back at the World Championships in impact will Latin America’s fi rst Paralympic 2016. boccia and sailing, plus a rundown on regional Games have on the region? competitions.

38 FUTURE GAMES 40 UPCOMING EVENTS 42 ISSUE OF THE SEASON

Rio 2016 revealed the medals for the Games, A handy schedule planner of the Rio 2016 Following the disqualifi cation of an athlete and PyeongChang 2018’s mascot and Tokyo Paralympic Games, and regional Champion- for showing his Olympic rings tattoo, Scott 2020 emblems were unveiled. ships in the newest Paralympic sports Reardon and Alexis Schaefer give their of badminton and taekwondo. views on why it is important to promote the Paralympic brand. 44 FINAL WORD

Yiannis Exarchos, CEO of Olympic Broad- cast Services, shares his perspective on the evolution of Paralympic broadcasting.

THE PARALYMPIAN CONTACT IMAGES

Editor Craig Spence International Paralympic Committee © Photo Credits: [email protected] (p. 1/46), IPC (p. 3/24/43), Getty Images (p.4/5/7/ Assistant Editor Ros Dumlao Adenauerallee 212-214 D-53113 , Germany 10/12/13/14/16/17/19/21/23/24/25/26/27/28/29/30/31/33/34/35/42), Contributor: Hernan Goldzycher NPC Ecuador (p.5), 123rf.com (p. 6/7/8/9/11/15/17/36/37/42/43), Tel. +49 228 2097-200 Göran Strand (p. 6), Australian Paralympic Committee (p. 10), Graphic Design designfee Bianca Werninghaus Fax +49 228 2097-209 instagram (p. 11), Zee Que (p. 11), youtube (p. 13), Luc Percival (p.17), Art Editors Yosof Rohesh, Mariel Avalos, Francois Nel (p. 21), Detlev Seyb (p. 22), Rowing (p. 22), [email protected] Peter SpurrierIntersport Images (p.22), Jacques Vapillon (p. 23), www.paralympic.org Peter Karreman (p. 25), NPC Iran (p. 25), Caifeng Yang (ITTF) (p. 26), Printing welzel + hardt GmbH Morten Olsen (p. 26), Matthew Stockman (p. 27), Adam Pretty (p. 28), PRINT The views expressed in The Paralympian are not necessarily those of the IPC. In case of republication of any part of The Paralympian, please Augusto Bizzi (p. 29), NPC Poland (p. 29), Canadian Paralympic send a copy to the IPC. The publisher reserves the right to edit submitted articles. The International Paralympic Committee endeavours to All rights reserved Committee (p. 30), Laura Godenzi (p. 31), BISFed (p. 32), ICF (p. 33), be as current and accurate as possible with this publication, aiming to treat all readers with courtesy and respect. We cannot guarantee © 2016 International Paralympic Committee Delta Lloyd (p. 34/35), Tennis Foundation (p. 35), however, that the information contained in this publication is complete and accurate in all respects and readers are taken to understand ISSN 1609-1329 istockphoto.com (p. 36/37/42/43); Bill Wippert (p. 36), and agree to this disclaimer upon reading any part of The Paralympian. No infringements upon any law, including sport regulations, from Pedro Vasconcelos (p. 36), DTU Jo Kleindl (p. 37), Alex Ferro (p. 38/40), people within the photographs and/or featured in the magazine’s content were known at the time of publication. Articles, pictures and other Divulgação Porto Maravilha (p. 38), PyeongChang 2018 (p. 39), written or graphic devices published in The Paralympian may not be reproduced without the prior written permission of the International Rio 2016 (p. 40), Badminton England (p. 41), BWF (p. 41), Paralympic Committee. Alan Spink (p. 41), WTF (p. 41), Olympic Broadcasting Services (p. 44) 6 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 PARALYMPIC NEWS PARALYMPIC NEWS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 7

IOC, IPC outline principles ‘Ostersund Declaration’ to Agitos Foundation launches + + + + for new agreement strengthen winter Para sports documentary fi lms NEWS IN-BRIEF

ANTI-DOPING: The IPC clarifi ed that the The IOC and the IPC signed a Memorandum of Understanding out- The development arm of the IPC the Agitos Foundation launched a series of video stories IAAF’s decision on 17 June does not aff ect lining the principles for a new long-term agreement between the documenting eight athletes from Latin America on their journey to Rio 2016. The release of the participation of the Russian Para athletics organisations on 14 June. the fi rst fi lm on 21 June also launched the social media hashtag #TeamAgitos; this aims to team at the Rio 2016 Paralympics. raise awareness of the Agitos Foundation by encouraging sport fans, athletes and partners The Russian Para athletics team train as The new agreement will run through to 2032 and build on the cur- to join the team for developing Para sport by showing their support and sharing their own part of the Russian Paralympic Committee rent partnership and co-operation agreements that were signed pri- updates on social media. and have no association with the All-Russia Athletics Federation (ARAF). or to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The athletes featured have all benefi tted from training and expertise provided during the Since the allegations were fi rst made The 2000 Paralympic Games was the fi rst time the IOC and Road to Rio 2016: Agitos Foundation Sessions, which aim to improve coaching and Para regarding ARAF, the IPC has been in dialogue with the Russian Paralympic Committee to IPC outlined the principles to further relationships between the two sport standards as part of the legacy of Latin America’s fi rst Paralympic Games. establish what relationship and interactions, organisations. if any, they have with ARAF. The short documentary fi lms will be published on the Agitos Foundation’s Facebook and Currently there is no evidence that the In 2001, a co-operation agreement was signed to protect the organ- Twitter each week. A fi nal fi lm for each athlete will be revealed before September’s Games. anti-doping issues within ARAF extend to the isation of the Paralympic Games and secure the practice of “one Russian Paralympic Committee or Russian bid, one city.” It re-affi rmed that the Paralympic Games from 2008 Athletes being featured: Para athletics team. ■ would always take place shortly after the , using the Darwin Castro, athletics, Ecuadorador GENERAL ASSEMBLY: Abu Dhabi, UAE, will same sports venues and facilities. From the 2012 bid process on- ■ Maria Paula Barrera, ,ng, ColombiColombiaa stage the 18th IPC General Assembly between wards, the host city chosen to stage the Olympic Games would also ■ Luis Herazo, athletics, Colombiabia 7 and 8 September 2017, when the elections for the IPC Governing Board, including a new ■ be obliged to host the Paralympics. Omara Durand, athletics, Cubaba President, will take place. ■ Yunidis Castillo, athletics, Cubaba Since then several agreements were signed to strengthen the rela- ■ Cecilia de Araujo, swimming, BraziBrazill : History will be made at the Rio 2016 Olympics, as two Paralympians – ■ tionship between the IOC and the IPC. Eliezer Gabriel, athletics, Mexicoxico Poland’s Natalia Partyka and Australia’s ■ Washington Do Nascimento, aathletics,thletics, BrazBrazilil – will also be playing in the Olympic table tennis event. AIMS UNDER NEW AGREEMENT www.agitosfoundation.com It is hoped April’s meeting will act as a catalyst to growing winter Para sports. BROADCASTING: WOWOW, Japan’s leading www.facebook.com/AgitosFoundationFoundation premium pay TV broadcaster, will start airing Representatives of 34 National Paralympic Committees (NPCs), its fi rst series of documentaries www.Twitter.com/Agitos “Who I Am” this October. They as well as National and Inter national Federations made a historic will feature Brazilian swimmer pledge to strengthen winter Para sports around the world following Daniel Dias, Australian a three-day workshop in Ostersund, Sweden, held 22-24 April. swimmer , Dutch sprinter Marlou van Rhijn, Record candidates up for Brazilian football 5-a-side The ‘Ostersund Declaration’ outlines a number of measures needed player Ricardo Alves, Bosnia to improve athlete development, talent identifi cation and recruit- IPC Athletes’ Council elections and Herzegovina sitting volleyball player Safet Alibasic, Japanese Increase the visibility of the Paralympic Games and ment which all organisations agreed to take forward. player Shingo Kunieda, to enhance the Paralympic brand A record 22 athletes will run for election for the IPC Athletes’ Council at the Rio 2016 Iranian archer Zahra Nemati and The NPCs and National Federations (NFs) present agreed to de- Paralympic Games. US wheelchair racer Tatyana McFadden. velop athlete pathways by building partnerships with governments, Olympic Federations and competition organisers, healthcare, edu- Elections for the six summer sport representatives on the Athletes’ Council will take place LAUREUS WORLD cation, business and research institutions to provide opportunities between 5 and 16 September, in the Proud Paralympian area of the Athletes’ Dining Hall in SPORTS AWARD: Daniel Dias garnered for athletes from grassroots to high performance levels. the Paralympic Village. the honour for Sports- person of the Year In support, International Federations (IFs) agreed to expand their The Athletes’ Council acts as the liaison between athletes and decision-makers and infl uenc- with a Disability. competition calendars, seek opportunities to hold multi-sport es how Paralympic sport and the Movement grow and develop. Accredited athletes are en- PARTNERSHIPS: World- Deepen existing co-operation, specifi cally on the implementation events and initiate and promote research and development in areas couraged to vote in the elections to ensure their voices are heard and their sport and regions wide Paralympic Partner of Olympic Agenda 2020, the strategic roadmap of such as classifi cation so that NFs can grow their athlete numbers. are represented. Visa, the payments technology the future for the Olympic Movement company, extended its portfolio of global Paralympic rights to include Paralympics New The IPC’s role will be to join all organisations together in regular, A candidate brochure Zealand. active dialogue, develop tools to support IFs and NFs build their is available on www.paralympic.org ALPINE SKIING: The 2017 IPC Alpine Skiing organisational capacities and take the lead in building a 10-year World Championships, the biggest Para alpine plan based on the Ostersund Declaration. This includes organising a skiing event outside of the Paralympic Winter multi-sport event where the world’s best competitors can compete Games, will take place in Tarvisio, Italy, from 22-31 January. alongside young and new Para athletes, and using growing media interest in winter Para sports to leverage commercial opportunities. POWERLIFTING, SWIMMING: Mexico City will jointly host the 2017 World Championships for powerlifting and swimming. The event Ensure the fi nancial stability and long-term viability of the IPC, In agreeing to the declaration, all parties have committed to putting will take place between 30 September the Paralympic Games and the Paralympic Movement it to the relevant governing bodies and NPCs and NFs not present and 7 October. for formal endorsement by the end of 2016. 8 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 PARALYMPIC NEWS PARALYMPIC NEWS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 9 10 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 #ASKANATHLETE DIGITAL BONUS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 11

With canoe making its Paralympic debut in Rio, fi nd out what the top two athletes in the women’s KL3 have to say about their sport, their rivalry and more.

Anne Dickins 234.92926 Amanda Reynolds @Anne200solo @AUSParalympics

Simply believing I could do it. My biggest challenge at the start Was it possible to change an injured, was keeping my stump under control. ex-endurance mountain biker What was the biggest It took a while to get my brain wired as into a sprint paddler in four years? challenge when taking to how to control it, as it waved around all There were many “self-imposed barriers” over the place when I was paddling, that I subconsciously put up, up the sport? which aff ected my balance and drive. which I then had to remove. I think I have tamed it now though.

Honestly, to come away with a massive smile on my face. The journey has been much I want to say gold, as that is where tougher than I could have imagined, and What are your my focus lies but, in reality, I want to have a I have got so much out of it because of that. expectations good solid race … as in get a good start, Clearly we are all hoping that I podium, be strong and consistent through the middle and if that happens it will be the icing for Rio? and fi nish off well. and the cherry on the cake.

Relieved and happy that against all odds I had actually performed through the seasickness and qualifi ed the boat. Glad that the season You left the 2015 was over and that I still had areas to improve World Championships Amazed and ecstatic (after winning gold). on. And yes, pleased that I no longer had a target on my back but also disappointed that I feeling …? was no longer world champion.

She inspires me with her determination and is on a very steep improvement curve which What makes Anne and I are very similar in times, so it just makes her one to watch in Rio. depends who gets it all right on the day as to One thing however that I’ll never be able to your opponent who comes out on top. beat her on is hair colour. Rumour has it that tough to beat? she’s going green and gold for Rio.

Nationally I think we could benefi t I think the key to the sports development is the from developing more entry-level Para canoe up-and-comers. It’s a relatively young sport programmes in our regional clubs. How can the in Australia compared to Europe but is slowly getting recognised. Internationally it would be great if sport continue more nations participated in Para canoe. developing I would like to see a pool of paddlers develop Maybe I’m a dreamer, but I would love at a national level with cooperation from all to see the top nations and even individual after Rio? the states with a uniform international path as athletes set up mentor and buddy systems for the goal. nations without Para canoe.

Rio 2016 Paralympic Games Canoe events 14-15 September Lagoa Stadium www.canoeicf.com 12 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 RIO 2016: ONE GIANT LEAP FOR THE AMERICAS RIO 2016: ONE GIANT LEAP FOR THE AMERICAS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 13 RIO 2016 he Rio 2016 Paralympic Games will not region took part in the Games, with just just be a stepping stone for the devel- two countries – hosts USA and neighbours T opment of Para sport in the Americas Canada – making the top 20 of the medals but a measure of how far the Paralympic table. Movement has come in the region over the last 20 years. This September, more countries and athletes One giant than ever before will compete in Latin Amer- Atlanta 1996 was the last time the Para- ica’s fi rst Paralympic Games with the likes lympics were held in the Americas. Back of hosts Brazil and Cuba expected to join then, 654 athletes representing 18 National Canada and the USA amongst the world’s leap for the Paralympic Committees (NPCs) from the elite Para sport nations. Americas

Brazil’s Mateus Evangelista Cardoso will be aiming to win gold at Latin America’s fi rst Paralympic Games 14 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 RIO 2016: ONE GIANT LEAP FOR THE AMERICAS RIO 2016: ONE GIANT LEAP FOR THE AMERICAS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 15

PARTICIPATION OF COUNTRIES IN THE AMERICAS AT EACH PARALYMPIC GAMES

18 of 104 NPCs 20 of 122 NPCs 24 of 135 NPCs

ATHENS 2004 ATLANTA 1996

SYDNEY 2000

Camila Haase Quiros of Costa Rica trains in the warm up pool during the Tournament

Starting point ness and to train professional staff in each isation has improved a lot too,” added the country.” 29-year-old who will compete in her third Much of the Paralympic Movement’s Paralympics this September. growth in the Americas in the last 20 years In 1999, the fi rst can be put down to the formation of the were held in Mexico City, attracting 1,000 Rio 2007 marked the fi rst time the Para- Americas Paralympic Committee (APC) in athletes from 18 countries. Since then, pans were held in the same city as the Pan 1997 and the creation of the Parapan Amer- the event has taken place every four years, American Games, a format that was formal- ican Games two years later. developing a strong track record for blooding ised in January 2015 when the APC signed young talent who have gone on to compete a collaboration agreement with the Pan Formed with the intention of developing Para at the Paralympic Games and win medals. American Sports Organisation (PASO). 24 of 146 NPCs 28 of 164 NPCs 29 of more than 160 NPCs sport in the region after the Atlanta Games, one of the APC’s fi rst objectives was to One athlete who followed this path is The most recent edition was held in , 2008 establish more NPCs. Cuba’s most successful Paralympian Yunidis Canada, in 2015 and featured 1,600 ath- LONDON 2012 Castillo. In 2003 as a talented 16-year-old letes from 28 countries. They raised the bar “When I was fi rst appointed APC President sprinter, she won two gold medals in the in many areas. RIO 2016 in 1997, there were not many NPCs. Most of second edition of the Parapans in Mar del the members of the regions were federations Plata, Argentina. “In the earlier editions of the Games, NPCs for visually impaired or wheelchair athletes, had to pay a registration fee of around USD or in some cases the government,” explained “The Parapans were very important for my 300-700 to cover the costs of the hotel, Jose Luis Campo, who is currently serving career because they gave me an energy transportation and food, whilst in Toronto his second spell as APC President after re- boost to later reach the Paralympics,” said they got everything paid by the Organising election in 2013. Castillo, who has won fi ve Paralympic and Committee,” said Campo. nine world titles. “By creating and developing NPCs, our “The growing strength in depth of the aim was to form organisations that could “Back then, I had to run only one race be- competing countries was also highlighted manage and develop Para sport in their cause there were few athletes competing, with 18 of the 28 competing countries win- respective countries. From there it took whilst in the following Parapans there were ning a medal. The Games showed great pro- many years of hard work to raise aware- many more. The infrastructure and organ- gress.” 16 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 RIO 2016: ONE GIANT LEAP FOR THE AMERICAS RIO 2016: ONE GIANT LEAP FOR THE AMERICAS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 17

Developing NPCs and events With many NPCs still at an early stage of region and to get more people into sports,” development, greater international compe- said Chile’s athletics London 2012 gold ATHLETES FROM THE AMERICAS WHO GOT THEIR STARTS AT THE Since the Atlanta 1996 Paralympics, 11 new tition opportunities are required for those medallist Cristian Valenzuela. PARAPAN AMS AND ARE EXPECTED TO SHINE IN SEPTEMBER’S PARALYMPIC GAMES NPCs have been founded in the Americas, countries whose athletes are not ready to with St. Vincent and the Grenadines the most compete in major world or regional events. Ricardo Elizalde, President of NPC Chile, recent IPC members in 2015. agreed: “The Para South American Games YunidisYunidis CCastilloastillo To help, Santiago, Chile, staged the fi rst Para created an infrastructure legacy and a Age:Age: 29 GustavoGus Fernandez SpoSport:rt: AAthleticsthletics In total there are now 30 NPCs in the region South American Games in 2014, and in two positive incentive to organise more sporting 2 x wworldorld titltitleses Age:Agee: 22 and 29 of them – 11 more than 20 years ago years’ time Nicaragua will host the Para Cen- events.” Sport:Spoor Wheelchair tennis in Atlanta – are set to compete at the Rio tral American Games. 1 x GGrand Slam singles 1 x GGrand Slam doubles 2016 Paralympic Games. “Santiago 2014 was a great opportunity to develop Paralympic sports in the

CarlosCarlos SSerranoerrano Age: 17 JarrydJarryd Wallace Sport: Swimmingming 1 x world titlee Age:Age: 26 Sport:Sport: AthleticsAthletics 2 x world titlestitles 18 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 XYZ RIO 2016: ONE GIANT LEAP FOR THE AMERICAS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 19

Developing a new generation “He had been working in Para swimming for can expect many more countries from that some time and saw potential in me.” region competing at Sao Paulo 2017 and, In addition to greater competition opportu- further ahead, Tokyo 2020.” nities, a platform was needed to get more The Agitos Foundation, the IPC’s develop- youngsters with an impairment involved in ment arm, has also supported several pro- Para sports in the region. grammes and workshops in Latin America, Platform for growth fi rst in the lead-up to Toronto 2015 and most Close to 1,000 athletes from the Americas This prompted the fi rst Youth Parapan Amer- recently for Rio 2016. will compete in the Rio 2016 Paralympic ican Games in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, in Games, with the majority having benefi tted 2005, an event that has taken place every The programmes have helped to raise from the structures and pathways that were four years since. awareness of Para sports, train coaches and developed post Atlanta 1996. identify promising athletes. In June, the Agi- Colombia’s world champion swimmer Carlos tos Foundation launched a series of videos With the Games set to receive more broad- Serrano was 14-years-old when he won four showcasing the incredible stories of eight cast and media coverage than ever before golds in the most recent edition in Buenos athletes who have benefi tted from the Agitos in the Americas thanks to likes of American Aires, Argentina, in 2013. Foundation’s work on their journey to the Rio Movil, NBC, CBC and Globo, there are high 2016 Paralympic Games. hopes about what the Games will achieve. “The Youth Parapans was my fi rst interna- tional competition and gave my career a “We have trained more than 20 regional “Rio 2016 will help boost Para sports in the huge boost,” said Serrano, who will make his leaders who later multiplied their knowledge region as never before and get more spon- Paralympic debut this September. in their countries,” said Georg Schlachten- sors thanks to the Games broadcasting,” berger, Director of the Agitos Foundation. Campo said. “Rio 2016 will be the stepping “My fi rst contact with Para sports was at stone to a more inclusive future in Latin 13-years-old, when I took part in a course to “A signifi cant number of NPCs from the America and a platform for future growth.” learn how to swim and met coach Luis Carlos Americas have applied for our Grant Calderon Fuentes. Support Programme and we have delivered That future growth it is hoped will continue programmes in diff erent countries such as El when Sao Paulo, Brazil, stages the 2017 Salvador, Colombia, Chile, Peru and Ecuador. Youth Parapan American Games, and Lima, Peru, the 2019 Parapan American Games. “Brazil has played a leading role, off ering its support in terms of funding and experts. They know that if they want to improve, they need competitive neighbouring countries.

“Cuba has been helping the Agitos Foun- dation a lot to develop the Caribbean. We

Argentina will aim to stop football 5-a-side rivals Brazil winning their fourth succes- sive Paralympic gold 20 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 ATHLETE PROFILES ATHLETE PROFILES THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 21 Athlete Profi les Athletics China 33 29 24 Russia 19 12 5 Following on from the last edition of Great Britain 11 7 11 The Paralympian, we profi le the 11 remaining sports that will be contested at Rio 2016. Yohansson Nascimento (BRA)) He is the reigning world and Paralympic champion in the 200m T46, but the 100m has eluded Nascimento since his nightmare race four years ago. QUICK FACTS

You pulled your What are your aims for What do you think about hav- Venue: hamstring in the Rio 2016? ing been named after former Olympic Stadium & Fort Copacabana middle of the 100m I want to achieve the best results car racer Stefan Johansson? fi nal at London 2012 of my life and win even more I like my name very much. Be- Dates: 8-18 September but still limped to the medals to add to the gold, the sides, I think that having been fi nish line. How did you two silvers (4x100m and 400m) named after a Formula 1 car rac- Medal events: do that? and the bronze (100m) Para- er is pretty cool. We both share 177 I knew I had a good mark lympic medals I already have. something: the speed. He is a Athletes: and chances of winning the speed driver and I am a sprinter. 1,100 race. However, after getting in- What does it mean for Brazil Games debut: jured everything changed. It was to host the fi rst Paralympic Rome 1960 a bit frustrating, but I wanted to Games in Latin America? Classifi cation overcome myself and make it to There is much happiness for the Athletes are grouped the end of those 100m. Brazilian people to be able to or- into classes according to ganise one of the biggest sport- how much their impairment impacts their event-specifi c When did you decide you ing events in the world. Brazil performance. wanted to propose to your will receive the whole world with In each class, the fi rst digit girlfriend Talita during the open arms. indicates the nature of an London 2012 Paralympics? athlete’s impairment, and the second indicates the I decided it one day before run- amount of functional ability ning the 200m T46. I wanted to the athlete has. The lower the give her that nice surprise, which second number, the greater the impact the impairment motivated me even more to win has on the athlete’s ability to that race. compete. A T or an F before each two-digit number shows whether the athlete is competing in a track or a fi eld event.

Classes 11-13: athletes with a visual impairment Class 20: athletes with an intellectual impairment Classes 31-38: athletes with co-ordination impairments, e.g. due to cerebral palsy, with classes 31 to 34 using a wheelchair to compete Classes 40-46: athletes with loss of limb or limb defi ciency, who compete standing Classes 51-54: wheelchair racers Classes 51-58: fi eld athletes who throw from a seated position ipc-athletics.com

MORE ONLINE: Each sport on the Rio 2016 Paralympic programme is having a dedicated week of ONES OMARA DURAND (CUB) MARKUS REHM (GER) MARLOU VAN RHIJN (NED) Clocked the fastest 100m Became the only athlete Sprinted to a 100m world featured content published on the IPC’s website. Visit paralympic.org/rio-2016/sports to learn about TO WATCH time ever by a female Para to break eight metres with record 12.79 in May and now athlete in 2015 in her fi rst a world record leap of targets the much coveted each sport’s history, read athlete stories and even watch video clips about each sport. major event back since the 8.40m at the 2015 World Paralympic gold in that birth of her daughter. Championships. event. 22 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 ATHLETE PROFILES ATHLETE PROFILES THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 23 Rowing Sailing China 2 0 0 Great Britain 1 0 1 Ukraine 101 1 0 1 Great Britain 100 Australia 100 Moran Samuel (ISR) Heiko Kroeger (GER) Samuel showed vast improvement since fi nishing fi fth at London 2012. After winning her fi rst world title, the ASW1x rower now targets her fi rst Paralympic gold. The 50-year-old won May’s 2.4 Norlin OD world title, proving to be a threat to French favourite Damien Seguin for Paralympic gold. You had a very successful She changed my technique, she Also, being able to go and watch but we were very committed to 2015 season. What has changed the way I sat in my boat, other sports was inspiring. It both journeys. …The fi rst month What did it mean to you to win barrier for me to remain among Schuemann. Have you ever changed since London 2012? really fi tted it to my needs, my helped me because it was six was harder. But he sleeps better gold at Sydney 2000? the top competitors. had the chance to meet him? After 2013, I felt I was not ful- physical body, and furthermore years after my injury. Watching (now). It was very special because it Yes, and I know him very well by fi lling my own potential and the training programme was ad- all the other athletes with their was my fi rst Paralympic title. The Please explain what your now. He is not just a two-time felt we needed to get more justed to our needs as Para ath- disabilities and feeling normal What are your goals in Rio? event in general was outstand- sailing project is about. Olympic champion but an amaz- knowledge and change some- letes. was something that was very im- First of all, I hope to have fun. ing. We received a warm wel- It is called ‘Sailing Team Germa- ing person. That is actually what thing. Together with the Israeli portant for me mentally. This is one of the reasons why come and people in the streets ny Inclusive Academy.’ We work I admire in him the most, how Paralympic Committee and I also got sponsors. It was rare I am an athlete. …. And also, it talked to us the athletes, and with diff erent sailing clubs from he acts. He is an example of the Daniel Rowing Centre, that I was able to get sponsors You and your partner had is important for me to cross the asked where we came from. I the country, helping them run sportsmanship, which we decided to hire a new here in Israel. That helped me your fi rst child in February. fi nish line in Rio and ask myself won the regatta one race before a proper sporting programme, might not be so easy coach in rowing for us. We work less (as a physical thera- How is it being a mother and ‘Did you do your best?’ … If that the last one. It was hard and I to fi nd sponsors and promote to fi nd these hired Paola Grizzetti who pist) and train more. an athlete? answer is yes, it does not matter was nervous in the beginning, themselves. We want every dis- days. had 10 years of Para row- I have been working for Rio the if I get gold, silver or bronze. But but it worked well in the end and abled sailor to have the same ing experience. What was your fi rst Paralym- last three-and-a-half years, and I am aiming for gold, of course. I was very happy. opportunities as an able-bodied pics like? my partner has been working one. I tried to stay focused and said to on having a baby for three-and- QUICK FACTS How important was it for you myself, ‘Listen this is like any oth- a-half years. We did not know to win the World Champion- You once said you look er competition.’ But that is not when to expect it to happen. Venue: ships ahead of Rio 2016? up to Germany’s true. You feel it. It is something Once she got pregnant, we knew QUICK FACTS Marina da Gloria It was really good to be able to Olympic sailor in the air. I really felt like I was in it was going to be a challenge, Dates: win this regatta, my eighth world Jochen the biggest event in sports. Venue: 12-17 September title in total. I had won the last Lagoa Stadium Medal events: one in 2014, while last year I fi n- Dates: 3 ished second. It is great for my 9-11 September self-confi dence. The other sail- Athletes: Medal events: 80 ors now know that age is no 4 Games debut: Athletes: Atlanta 1996 96 Classifi cation Games debut: Sailors with a physical Beijing 2008 or visual impairment com- pete in sports classes 1-7, Classifi cation with 1 point being the least Paralympic rowing functionally able. has three sport classes for 2.4 Norlin OD is open to all athletes with diff erent func- athletes meeting the mini- tional abilities, depending mum eligibility criteria. on what they primarily use to SKUD: In the two-person accelerate the boat. team, one athlete has to be AS: arms and shoulders female and one must be a 1 TA: trunks, arms and or 2 pointer. shoulders : the total classifi cation LTA: legs, trunks, arms and points have to add up to 14 shoulders or less

worldrowing.com sailing.org

ONES (AUS) GREAT BRITAIN’S LTA AUSTRALIA’S TA MIXED ONES DAMIEN SEGUIN (FRA) DAN FITZGIBBON AND HELENA LUCAS Since taking silver in London MIXED COXED FOUR TEAM DOUBLE SCULLS TEAM The 2015 world champion (AUS) (GBR) TO WATCH 2012, Horrie has dominated The world champion crew Finished fi fth at London 2012, TO WATCH failed to reach the podium in The two-time SKUD18 world The defending Paralympic the AS men’s class, winning hold a world best time of but and Kathryn London 2012 in the 2.4 Norlin champions are aiming for champion in the 2.4 Norlin OD the world titles from 2013- 3:13.76. Ross have since won every OD (formerly 2.4mR). their second consecutive will be determined to retain 2015. major race. Paralympic gold. her title in Rio. 24 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 ATHLETE PROFILESPROFILE ATHLETE PROFILES THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 25 Shooting Sitt ing China 4 1 3 MEN Bosnia- Iran Germany Korea 301 Herzegovina France 110 volleyball WOMEN China USA Ukraine Cuiping Zhang (CHN)

After taking two silvers in Beijing 2008, Zhang came back to win golds in London 2012 in R2 (women’s 10m air rifl e standing SH1) and R8 Liliane Mukobwankabo (RWA) (women’s 50m rifl e three positions SH1).

You are the holder of both the At Beijing 2008 you missed Have you changed anything fi nal round my coach Africa is sending a women’s sitting volleyball team to the Paralympics for the R2 and R8 world records. Do out on a gold medal. What did since London that you think was afraid that I would fi rst time ever. Team captain Mukobwankabo played a key role in helping Rwanda make you think you can break those you change between then and will help you perform even be nervous, he reassured history, as they qualifi ed by winning the 2015 African Championships. world records again in Rio? London to win gold? better in Rio? me that it was not my fi rst gold To break the records I think luck The Beijing Paralympic Games The training programme was medal match. So I had less How has Rwanda’s sitting my attention the most about is also needed. I would be satis- was my debut. I was a very young changed, mainly targeted at im- pressure. After winning the gold volleyball success helped heal China. And now I want to visit fi ed if I performed to the level of athlete and had fantasised about proving skills. I also told myself everybody came to congratulate the wounds from the country’s the US. I think it is a developed my daily training. the podium. It was a pity that to “reset,” starting from zero and me, including our chairwoman civil war? country with many nice places I lost the gold, but I knew then forgetting about the past Games Ms. Haidi Zhang. I felt so proud It helped so much. People to visit. I have friends and family QUICK FACTS about my shortcomings and and achievements, and get my- of myself and I think it might started to play together with- who live in New York. Venue: trained harder afterwards. It is self mentally mature and steady. be encouraging to the other out thinking about the previous Riocentro – Pavilion 6 time that makes me a diff erent My coach and I will adopt a athletes from China. diff erences that had kept us What is your goal for Rio? woman than a girl. I grew more competition strategy according divided for so many years. We I want to make sure that we are Dates: 9-18 September mature and became a good to the atmosphere in Rio. might be coming from diff erent not going to Rio just to visit the shooter. regions, but we are one big team city but to perform well at the Medal events: How do you think your QUICK FACTS who share the same goals. We Paralympic Games. The team 2 Paralympic success has are all Rwandan. It also helped feels confi dent even though we Athletes: impacted China? Venue: integrate injured people from have been training for just four 192 Olympic Shooting In 2012 in London, I won the fi rst Centre the war in to society. People years compared to other teams. Games debut: gold medal for China. Before the with an impairment are happier We know it is not going to be Arnhem 1980 (men); Dates: now and accept their disability. easy, but we aim for winning at 2004 (women) 8-14 September least three matches. We truly Qualifi ed teams: Medal events: The Rwandan team took part believe we can defeat Iran and Women’s Pool A: 12 Brazil, Ukraine, in a training camp in China Canada, for example. Anything Russia, Canada Athletes: earlier this year. Have you ever can happen. Women’s Pool B: 150 imagined you would travel China, USA, Iran, Rwanda there? What do you like to do during Games debut: Men’s Pool A: Toronto 1976 Certainly not! It was such a your free time? Brazil, Germany, wonderful experience which When I am not competing, I like Egypt, USA Classifi cation Athletes with diff erent we enjoyed a lot. We learned going shopping and trying on Men’s Pool B: impairments compete as well. The tall buildings new shoes and clothes, and tak- Iran, Bosnia and together in three classes: Herzegovina, Russia, SH1 pistol: athletes with and the long roads caught ing a look at bags. China lower limb impairment and/or Classifi cation upper limb impairment in the All players have a non-shooting arm physical impairment and are SH1 rifl e: athletes with lower either allocated sport class limb impairment “D” for disability or “MD” SH2 rifl e: athletes with an for minimal disability. MD upper limb impairment, who indicates a higher functional require the use of a spring ability than D. A team may mounted stand to support only fi eld one MD player at the weight of the rifl e. a time.

ipc-shooting.org worldparavolley.org

ONES OLEKSII DENYSIUK (UKR) VERONIKA VADOVICOVA MICHAEL JOHNSON (NZL) ONES KATIE HOLLOWAY (USA) RAMEZAN SALEHI SAFET ALIBASIC (BIH) Set a new P1 (men’s 10m air (SVK) The Athens 2004 Described as an “all-round HAJIKOLAEI (IRI) Tapped the Most Valuable TO WATCH pistol SH1) fi nals world record The world and European Paralympic champion TO WATCH player”, Holloway will lead One of the sport’s best liberos Player from the 2014 World in 2015 and medalled in all champion has recently been set his 14th career world the USA’s eff orts to topple aims to help his team bounce Championships, Alibasic aims but one World Cup. in world record breaking form. record in 2015. Paralympic champions China. back from their runner-up to help his country retain their fi nish from London 2012. Paralympic gold. 26 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 ATHLETE PROFILES ATHLETE PROFILES THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 27 Table Triathlon China 14 5 2 Poland 311 ten nis Germany 211 Hailey Danisewicz (USA)

Sandra Paovic (CRO) Three of the world’s best PT2 racers from the USA will compete in Rio. World No.1 Danisewicz will start as favourite. The Olympian bounced back from a life-threatening car accident in 2009 to dominate the women’s class 6. Describe your breakthrough You qualifi ed for Rio really Ally Seely and Melissa Stock- race the moment. early. What has your mindset well are both your teammates way I want Rio 2016 will be your fi rst ever You have won gold in every Each has their strengths and What do I think I really started to come been since the start of 2016? and opponents. What is the to be, it’s cool Paralympics. What are your major event you have com- weaknesses, and for me it is very you enjoy into my own in (early) 2014. That I’m in an interesting spot be- relationship like? knowing that … the expectations? peted. What has been the key important to prepare good tac- doing in your was when I really started to win cause I did qualify early and it We’re neck-in-neck with each other podium spots are Before my Para athletic career, to your success? tics. downtime? some races. was a big weight off my shoul- other (during races) but also off being occupied by people I I competed as an able-bodied Eighteen years of experience is I like to spend much of my ders. The Continental Champi- the race course we are the clos- love and respect. athlete during the Beijing 2008 key. I was a member of the Croa- The main challenge for me is time with my husband who Me winning, it was not a fl uke. onships in (March) was the sec- est of friends and have a lot of Olympic Games. Besides that, I tian national team with high level that my opponents are much is also a Croatian Para table That (season) was when I started ond qualifying race and so pretty respect for each other. … Even Living in Chicago where the had plenty of experiences from results, had participated in high more mobile than me. I am the tennis player. We like to go to to believe that I belonged there. much everyone else racing there when I’m in a race with the two winters are cold, how do other major events. So although level competitions and spent only one in the category with the cinema, relax at dinners and The World Championships in peaked at that race (while I fi n- of them and I might not fi nish a you train for the open water Rio will be my fi rst Paralympics, most of my life training and at a spinal injury, so movements travel when we fi nd time. On eve- 2013 in London, that was the ished fourth). So that was a lit- segment? competing at a high level is rou- competitions. Sport is my life. during matches nings we like to watch a movie or fi rst race I ever won, and it was tle challenging for me mentally In the summer I swim a lot in tine for me. and training TV series. I also enjoy reading a really the fi rst time where I because I didn’t have to peak. Lake Michigan usually a couple Who will be your toughest are chal- lot. thought “yeah this might actual- It was hard to go into this race of times a week. … But I also I expect to continue performing opponents? lenging. ly be something.” and to see the fi tness levels of train in Austin, Texas, (during the on a high level and to do my Three Ukrainans in Maryna all my competitors and just not winters) where I have access to best. Lytovchenko, Yuliya Klymen- being able to match that (was open water which is great. Very ko and Antonina Khodzyn- hard). … In the long run, I know few people are able to swim skaya are great athletes, as I have the advantage because I open water in the winter so that QUICK FACTS well as Russia’s London 2012 only have to peak once. So right is defi nitely a plus. champion Raisa Chebanika. nown I am kind of just in the Venue: QUICK FACTS Riocentro – earlye stages building Pavilion 3 towardt Rio. Venue: Dates: Fort Copacabana 8-17 September Dates: Medal events: 10-11 September 29 Medal events: Athletes: 6 276 Athletes: Games debut: 60 Rome 1960 Games debut: Classifi cation Rio 2016 Athletes are grouped into 11 diff erent classes. ‘ Classifi cation 1-5 are devoted to wheel- In Para triathlon there chair athletes, 6-10 to are four diff erent sport class- athletes with a physical es for athletes with physical impairment competing in a impairments, numbered 1-4. standing position. Athletes in There is a fi fth sport class for class 11 have an intellectual athletes with vision impair- impairment. ment named PT5. ipttc.org triathlon.org

ONES NATALIA PARTYKA (POL) ALVARO VALERA (ESP) ANNA CARIN-AHLQUIST (SWE) ONES MARTIN SCHULZ (GER) STEFAN DANIEL (CAN) LAUREN STEADMAN (GBR) The most popular Para table The defending World and The World bronze medallist Has won every single triathlon The Canadian teenager took The swimmer-turned-triath- TO WATCH tennis player is going for a European class 6 champion will rely on her strong tactics TO WATCH race since June 2013 in the down top rival Schulz at the lete has been unbeaten in third-straight Paralympic title looks poised for his fi rst and backhand to retain her PT4, that is, until the 2015 2015 Worlds for the gold and major Para triathlon events in class 10. Paralympic gold since Para lympic gold in class 3. World Championships. looks to repeat that in Rio. since September 2014 in the Sydney 2000. women’s PT4. 28 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 ATHLETE PROFILESPROFILE ATHLETE PROFILES THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 29 Wheelchair Wheelchair MEN Canada Australia USA China 6 3 1 WOMEN Germany Australia Netherlands Hong Kong 214 basketball fen cing Poland 201

Shaun Norris (AUS) Beatrice Vio (ITA)

The veteran is an integral part of world champion team The 19-year-old burst onto the scene in 2012 and is the defending world looking to improve on their silver medal at London 2012. and European champion in the women’s category B.

Have preparations for Rio What are your thoughts on What is your role on the team? How did you get the I have to thank my previous Who are your greatest How do you think QUICK FACTS 2016 been diff erent to the the evolution of wheelchair It is an interesting question be- nickname Bebe? coach Fabio Giovannini for that infl uences? your success has im- other three Paralympic Games basketball? cause over the years, and even I got the nickname Bebe from my choice which was surely the right Many of them belong to the world pacted others? Venue: you have experienced? There is defi nitely a lot more now, it still changes. I have al- brother Nicolò (two years older one. Since then I have made a of … especially the girls When someone begins to be Carioca Arena 1 & Rio It is a little bit diff erent for me support of disabled athletes, ways thought of myself as a play- than me) when we were kids. I very nice and stimulating path in the Dream Team (Valentina known and followed by people Olympic Arena personallyp because as the years which is fantastic. I remember er (and) always wanted to fi ll the like it a lot and since I restarted for growth. Vezzali, and it is important to behave in the Dates: haveh gone by we have gotten when I fi rst started with the Aus- role that is just needed. Some my life after the disease it has ) because I have best way and to always set a 8-17 September morem and more support. We tralian team and had to go away have me as a bit more of a scor- become my “offi cial” name. How do you balance something to learn from each of good example. During compe- Medal events: haveh always had the personnel, for tournaments, I had to try and ing threat, so it just depends. competing and school? them. But there are many also in titions when kids come to me 2 thet people there to support us, fi nd money to aff ord to fl y. There With the personnel we have You did not compete in I love the school that I attend the Paralympic world. … Franc- and tell me “I started fencing be- Athletes: butb now to be actually training was money there for the basket- and what we need at the end of London despite your potential. and I really like the subjects I esca Porcellato because she can cause I want to be like you,” I am 264 directlyd out of the facilities as ball team to subsidise the cost, the day, I am not really looking Do you sometimes wish you study and then, as for fencing, it be so aggressive during competi- the happiest, especially if they well,w (that) sort of brings that but you would (still) have to raise out there to drop 30 (points) on competed? is a pleasure to dedicate all my tions but also so sweet in normal are kids with disabilities. Unfor- Games debut: Rome 1960 home-baseh somewhere central some form of money to be able every team. I am just looking out In London I was 14 years old and time pursuing in parallel the two life, Alex Zanardi for his strength tunately in Italy there are very forf all of us and gives us more to go away and play. there to do what is needed to win according to the coach of the things: the study and fencing and determination, and few children with disabilities who Qualifi ed teams: opportunitieso to train hard. games. national team I was too young training and then exams and last I mention play sports and I know that doing Women Group A: Brazil, Canada, It has changed heaps. I can now and inexperienced to attend the competitions. Martina Caironi, sport is very important for them Germany, Great focus more on basketball than What do Paralympic Games, although who is a good because they will grow stronger Britain, Argentina Women Group B: to think about how I am going to you like to technically I could try. friend of mine and more confi dent. USA, Netherlands, live from day-to-day. do when you for many years. France, China, Algeria Men Group A: are not But I wanted to go to London Spain, Australia, competing? somehow and I was able to be QUICK FACTS Canada, Turkey, Relax, watch TV. Play an active part of the Paralympics Netherlands, Japan Men Group B: some games, chill out. I like by being chosen as torchbearer Venue: Brazil, Iran, USA, motorsport. Working as well, so representing Future Paralym- Youth Arena Great Britain, Germany, Algeria trying to keep busy with my work. pic athletes. Then, during the Dates: Games, I was a reporter for Sky 12-16 September Classifi cation Italia television. Each athlete is Medal events: assigned to a classifi cation 14 between 1-4.5 points, I know I would not have enjoyed and could be classifi ed as Athletes: a 1.5, 2.5, etc. The more (London 2012) as much 88 functional ability an athlete if I were an athlete and has, the higher the number of Games debut: points he or she is awarded. Rome 1960 For instance, a 1-point player could be a high-level para- Classifi cation plegic and a 4.5-point player A and B: athletes in typically has an impairment of the B category have an a lower limb. A team may not impairment with a greater play with more than 14 points impact on their functional on the fl oor at one time. ability.

iwbf.org iwasf.com

ONES MARINA MOHNEN ABDI JAMA MARISKA BEIJER ONES YU CHI YEE JOVANE SILVA GUISSONE ADRIAN CASTRO (GER) (GBR) (NED) (HKG) (BRA) (POL) TO WATCH The 4.5-classifi ed player is Captained his team to back- One of the most dangerous TO WATCH Looking to strike Paralympic Brazil’s lone fencer at The dominating fencer in the expected to help the Germans to-back European titles and scorers in the women’s side gold again in the epee and foil London 2012 won gold in men’s category B is defend their Paralympic gold. looks to help Britain return to looks to help her side battle category A but will be chal- the epee category B. seeking his fi rst Paralympic the Paralympic podium. for the gold. lenged by rising fencers. medal. 30 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 ATHLETE PROFILES ATHLETE PROFILES THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 31 Wheelchair Wheelchair Netherlands 2 2 2 Australia Canada USA USA 111 rugby ten nis Israel 101

Zak Madell (CAN) Gustavo Fernandez (ARG)

After fi nishing behind Australia at both London 2012 and the Consistently ranked in the world’s top 10 players, Fernandez is confi dent he can end 2014 World Championships, Canada’s key scorer and playmaker the Paralympic dominance of Japan’s Shingo Kunieda and France’s Stephane Houdet. wants gold in Rio. Your dad and your eldest ended-up being sport fans. He Kunieda and Houdet seem to What makes Canada one of developed a strong bond with sweeter. It is also always a bonus for brother are both professional did not force us to like sports; we be one step ahead of the rest. the world’s best teams along- one another both on and off the when we win match-ups against team basketball players. Can we say just choose them as well. My dad Is it possible to defeat them? side the USA and Australia? court. our long standing US rivals, Alberta in sport is in your blood? was an excellent professional Shingo and Stephane are defi - A huge part is that we are such especially after losing to them wheelchair bas- Yes, defi nitely. As my dad used and my siblings and I dreamed nitely one step ahead. But a tight knit group. A large core Take us back to the Toronto earlier in the round-robin. ketball. But now that to be a basketball player, sports about becoming athletes one everything is more even. The of our team has been playing to- 2015 Parapan American I am too old to compete were the fi rst topic we talked day. It is crazy that when all gap between them and us is gether for two-plus Paralympics. Games fi nal against the USA. Will you play with a mohawk in the next games, do not ex- about at home. We all the kids were looking at getting bridged, which could Because of that, our squad has Describe the emotions after hair-style at Rio? pect to see me with a mohawk their parents wearing be seen on the last events we winning. No way, the mohawk is a thing on my head again. suits to go to work, played at. But yes, they are The whole team was ecstat- of the past for me. The reason we used to look at our still the best. Anyway, I know I QUICK FACTS ic that we qualifi ed for that happened was be- What do you like to do when dad wearing his sports can defeat them. I just have to Rio. The fact that we cause it was my tradition you are not competing? clothing to work. keep working hard to be closer. Venue: Carioca Arena 1 were able to do it on for the last two Canada Since recently moving to Victo- home soil in front of Winter Games playing ria, I have spent a good amount You won your fi rst Grand Dates: our own fans made of my free time just exploring the Slam in Wimbledon with the 14-18 September the moment much city and discovering what kind of doubles. What did that mean QUICK FACTS Medal events: things there are to do here. Also to you? 1 being a “foodie,” I love trying It was the most intense emotion Venue: Olympic Tennis Centre Athletes: out the local cuisine and fi nd- I have ever felt in my life. It was 96 (8 teams) ing where the good food joints the prize for the sacrifi ce I had Dates: 8-16 September Games debut: are around town. made for so many years. I hope Atlanta 1996 to win many more, and I am re- Medal events: 6 Qualifi ed teams: ally aiming for the Pool A: singles title (Fernandez won his Athletes: Canada, Australia, fi rst singles Grand Slam in June 104 Great Britain, Brazil at Roland Garros). But still, if my Pool B: Games debut: USA, Japan, Sweden, career would end right now, that Barcelona 1992 France moment when I was lifting the Classifi cation Classifi cation trophy was worth all the Open class: All players have an hours of training. athletes with an impairment impairment aff ecting the of one or both legs but does upper and lower limbs and not aff ect their arms or hands are classifi ed from 0.5 to 3.5 Quad class: athletes with (most physical function). an impairment that aff ects The total point value has to their arms and legs, which be 8 or less with a maximum limits their ability to handle of four players on the fi eld the racket and to move their of play. wheelchair compared with open class athletes.

iwrf.com itftennis.com

ONES CHUCK AOKI (USA) (AUS) DAISUKE IKEZAKI (JPN) ONES SHINGO KUNIEDA (JPN) (NED) (AUS) Tabbed the best 3.0 player at Part of the team that took Ikezaki helped his side upset Has struggled in 2016 due Ranked No. 1 in the women’s The former wheelchair TO WATCH the 2014 World Champion- golds in London 2012 and Australia to win the Asia- TO WATCH to injury but the Paralympic singles, Griffi oen looks like the basketball player targets ships, Aoki is one of the most the 2014 Worlds. The veteran Oceania zonal Championships and Grand Slam champion next big thing to follow Dutch another gold in tennis, and consistent and skilled players shows no signs of slowing. and has been a regular in the remains a favourite in the legend . is the new favourite in the on the court. Japanese line-up. men’s singles. quad division. 32 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 WORLD SPORT ROUND-UP WORLD SPORT ROUND-UP THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 33

MEDALS TABLE Country Gold Silver Bronze Total

Great Britain 2215 Australia 1113 Germany 2002 Russia 0022

Medals table only includes kayak events, not va’as.

Portugal’sPortugal’s AntonioAntonio Marques in actactionion at the World CChampionshipshampionships in BeijiBeijing,ng China Great Britain’s Emma Wiggs in action at the 2016 ICF Para Canoe World Championships in Duisburg, Germany

BISFedBISF Individual World Championships Para Canoe World Championships 19-2619-26 March 17-19 May

PattayaPattaya TTadtong reinforced his push for back-to-back Paralympic golds after winning Interest levels in the men’s KL2 200m further in- champion in her class, trading medals with Australia’s 2015 world the BC1 individual world title in Beijing, China, in an all-Thai fi nal with creased ahead of the Rio 2016 Paralympics after champion Amanda Reynolds. Witsanu Haudpradit 4-3. Australia’s Curtis McGrath handed Austria’s Mark- us Swoboda his fi rst World Championship fi nal de- Germany’s Tom Kierey (men’s KL3) and SPOTLIGHTSPOTLIGHT ON: The Thai dominance continued in the BC2, with Worawut feat since 2010. Great Britain’s Emma Wiggs (women’s PattayaPattaya TaTadtongd Saengampa taking the gold medal over China’s Zhiqiang Yan. KL2) retained their titles. (THA)(THA) In the BC3 category, South Korea’s London 2012 silver med- At the event in Duisburg, Germany, the After winningwinning the wworld title, allist Ho Won Jeong did not drop a point to Japan’s Kazuki women’s KL1 and KL3 also saw a swap China’s Xiaowei Yu showed a vast improve- willwill now be aiaimingm for Takahashi as he claimed the world title. of results from the 2015 World Cham- ment, winning gold in the men’s KL1 after successivesuccessiv ParalympicParalympic golds.g pionships. Germany’s Edina Muller fi nishing eighth in last year’s Worlds. The BC4 encounter between China’s Yuansen Zheng and Great won the KL1 title, as Britain’s Britain’s Stephen McGuire was the game that drew the biggest defending champion Jeanette www.canoeicf.com crowd. Zheng, who upset No. 1 ranked and defending world champion Chippington took the silver. Yuk WinWingg Leung in an earlier round, could not overcome McGuire who captured the title British KL3 canoeist Anne wiwithth a 44-3-3 win. Dickins was crowned the new

www.bisfed.comwww. SPOTLIGHT ON: MEDALS TABLE Curtis McGrath (AUS) Country Gold Silver Bronze Total Snapped Markus Swoboda’s World Championship winning streak and made the race for gold at Thailand 2103 Rio 2016 much Great Britain 1012 tighter. South Korea 1012 34 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 WORLD SPORT ROUND-UP WORLD SPORT ROUND-UPXYZ THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 35

MEDALS TABLE Country Gold Silver Bronze Total

Germany 1001 Poland 1001 USA 1001 Great Britain 0202 France 0101 Australia 0033

The USA’s Tatyana McFadden and Switzerland’s Marcel Hug celebrate winning in London The 2016 Para Championships The Netherlands defeated Germany’s Sabine Ellerbrock with Prince Harry were held in Medemblik, the Netherlands in the Roland Garros fi nal

Boston and London Marathons Para World Sailing Roland Garros and Wimbledon 18 April // 24 April Championships 2-4 June // 7-10 July

Switzerland’s Marcel Hug world champion Manuela 24-28 May Great Britain’s Gordon Reid and the Griffi oen claimed her fourth Slam title, and the USA’s Tatyana SPOTLIGHT ON: Schaer in the fi nal sprint. Netherlands’ Jiske Griffi oen became the beating compatriot 4-6, McFadden won their re- Marcel Hug McFadden, who has won The sonar class had a stunning fi nale in fi rst wheelchair tennis players to win the 6-0, 6-4. Japan’s and Britain’s spective races in London, the Grand Slam of Bos- Medemblik, the Netherlands, with the Wimbledon men and women’s singles ti- Jordanne Whiley took the women’s dou- (SUI) Great Britain, just six ton, London, Chicago USA’s Alphonsus Doerr, Bradley Kendell tles, respectively. bles title, adding to their Roland Garros Won both marathons in a days after the pair also fi nal three-man sprint and New York for the and Hugh Freund taking the gold with crown from June. won in Boston, USA – to the fi nish. last three years, took the 26 points. They fi nished ahead of Great This was the fi rst time wheelchair sin- the fi rst event of the 2016 Boston Marathon victory in Britain’s John Robertson, Hannah Stodel SPOTLIGHT ON: gles events were featured in Wimbledon, The Roland Garros saw new Grand Slam Abbott World Marathon 1:42:16. and Steve Thomas; and Australia’s Colin took silver fol- US Sonar team which before only held doubles competi- singles champions. Majors Wheelchair Series. Harrison, and Russell lowing a protest Sealed the world title just tions. Fellow US wheelchair racer Ray Martin Boaden in silver and bronze respectively. hearing that in- one point ahead of Great Britain Argentina’s Gustavo Fernandez defeat- In a fi nal sprint in London, Hug won in also made a winning return to London as volved Australia’s and two over Australia Reid topped Sweden’s Stefan Olsson 6-1, ed Reid, and the Netherlands’ Marjolein following a thrilling 1:35:24 after seeing off Australia’s Kurt he took the tape in the T51/52 IPC Athlet- Despite crashing in the fi nal 2.4 Norlin OD reigning Paralym- fi nal race. 6-4 for his second career Slam title. The Buis had a confi dent win over Germany’s Fearnley (1:35:25) and Great Britain’s ics Marathon World Cup event for the sec- race, Germany’s Heiko Kroeger managed pic champions 24-year-old also picked up his fi rst Wim- Sabine Ellerbrock. David Weir (1:35:26). ond consecutive year, clocking 1:59:53. to take gold with 32 points. France’s Ath- and bledon doubles crownown with fellow Briton ens 2004 gold medallist Damien Seguin Liesl Tesch. Alfi e Hewett. Japan’sJapa Shingo Kunieda and Reid se- Hug also had to out-sprint South Africa’s In her London Marathon debut, China’s claimed silver, and Australia’s Matthew curedcured the men’s doubles title on the clay. Ernst van Dyk and Fearnley in a three- Jin Zheng smashed the world record, Bugg collected bronze. It seemed the Australians were going to www.rolandgarros.comw way, wheel-for-wheel dash in Boston. knocking 13 minutes off the T11 mark fi nish as runners-up, but after the protest, SPOTLIGHT ON: They all clocked 1:24:06, with Hug win- set by Germany’s Regina Vollbrecht 12 Poland’s Monika Gibes and Piotr Cichocki their ninth race was wiped off , promoting Gordon Reidd www.wimbledon.com ning by a chair’s length. months ago. Zheng crossed the line in showed great form and won the SKUD18 the British crew to the second place and (GBR) 3:13:15 in the women’s T11/12 event. world title with 18 points after having relegating Fitzgibbon and Tesch to the Won the inaugurall McFadden (1:44:14) collected her fourth stayed in front of the leaderboard for third position. Wimbledon singles title,itle, consecutive London Marathon title as she www.baa.org most of the regatta. Great Britain’s taking two of the three www.sailing.org Grand Slams this year and held off Switzerland’s former marathon Alexandra Rickham and Niki Birrell the last before Rio. virginmoneylondonmarathon.com 36 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 REGIONAL RUNDOWN REGIONAL RUNDOWN THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 37

AMERICAS EUROPE ASIA

IPC Ice Sledge Hockey IPC Swimming European Open IWAS Wheelchair Fencing 2nd Asian Para Taekwondo Open Pan Pacifi c Championships Championships European Championships Championships 29 March – 2 April 30 April – 7 May 17-22 May 18 April Buff alo, New York, USA Funchal, Portugal Casale Monferrato, Italy Manila, Philippines The USA won the fi rst-ever Pan Pacifi c title, In the last major competition before Rio Italy’s Beatrice Vio successfully defended Iran’s Mahdi Pourrahnamaahmad defeating Canada, 4-1. South Korea, who 2016, Belarusian world and Paralympic her women’s foil category B title and extend- remained No. 1 in the male K44 un- was promoted to the A-Pool last season, champion Ihar Boki left as the most deco- ed her run of consecutive gold medals in ma- der 75kg world rankings after main- Regional escaped a late rally from Team Pan Pacifi c rated swimmer with six gold medals and a jor competitions to 11. Ukraine’s world No.1 taining his undefeated run since the (featuring players from Japan and other par- bronze. Twenty-eight world records were Anton Datsko also defended his European introduction of the world rankings in ticipating countries) in the fi nal minutes to broken in Funchal, where 450 swimmers title in the men’s sabre event category A January 2015. Iranian reigning world capture the bronze with a 3-2 victory. from 51 countries participated. Ukraine champion Bolor-Erdene Ganbat won rundown topped the medals tables with 37 gold, 36 ETU Para Triathlon gold in the men’s K44 up to 61kg. IWAS Wheelchair Fencing silver and 25 bronze. Russia were second European Championships Mongolian Khurelbaatar Enkhtuya Americas Championships with 30 golds, 31 silver and 25 bronze. 27 May was untouchable in her fi nals to win AFRICA 26-29 May Lisbon, Portugal the women’s K44 up to 49kg. Sao Paulo, Brazil Germany’s Martin Schulz and Great Britain’s WTF African Para Taekwondo Brazilian fencers topped the medals stand- Lauren Steadman showed strong form IWAS Asian Wheelchair Championships ings at the fi nal major competition before ahead of Rio 2016, winning the men Fencing Championships 22 May the Paralympics. In addition to the seven and women’s PT4 races, respec- 7-10 April Port Said, Egypt titles, Brazil also collected fi ve silvers and tively. Hong Kong Africa held its fi rst Para taekwondo regionals three bronzes. Brazil’s Paralympic champion China topped the medal tally with 11 attracting 29 athletes from 11 countries to Jovane Silva Guissone took the gold in the IPC Athletics golds, six silvers and eight bronzes. an event open to athletes from around the men’s foil category B and silver in the epee. European Champion- Jing Bian was among the highlights world. Iran topped the overall medals table ships for China, winning gold after defeat- with fi ve golds; Morocco came in second Para Archery Parapan 10-16 June ing compatriot Xufeng Zou in a tight with three gold medals and Spain third with American Championships IPC Ice Sledge Hockey Grosseto, Italy fi nal. China’s Jianquan Tian left the two golds. Nigeria was the second-highest 23-29 May European Championships Twenty fi ve world Championships with two gold medals ranking African country coming in fourth San Jose, Costa Rica 15-10 April records were (men’s sabre and epee category A). with one gold and a bronze medal. The USA topped the medal standings, cap- Ostersund, Sweden broken at the turing nine individual medals, three of which Paralympic silver medallist Russia claimed biggest European were gold. They swept the men’s open re- their fi rst European title, with Italy and Nor- Championships to curve, with Michael Lukow defeating team- way securing silver and bronze respectively. date. More than 600 Germany’s Martin Schulz mate and defending world champion Eric athletes from 36 countries took was one of the winners at May’s Para Triathlon Bennett for gold. In the women’s equivalent, part and Russia topped the medals table European Championships Brazil’s Toronto 2015 silver medallist Thais claiming 51 titles. Silva Carvalho took the top prize. 38 THE PARALYMPIANARALYMPMPMPIANIANN 002|20162000116 FUTUREFUTF URERE GAMESGGAMES FUTURE GAMES THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 39

PyeongChang 2018 Tokyo 2020 The offi cial mascots for the 2018 Olympic Tokyo 2020 unveiled the offi cial em- and Paralympic Winter Games (POCOG) blems of the 2020 Olympic and Paralym- were revealed on 2 June. An Asiatic black pic Games, “Harmonized Chequered bear named “Bandabi” and a white tiger Emblems,” during a ceremony held in named “Soohorang” will each represent the Tokyo on 25 April. Paralympic and Olympic Winter Games. Both animals appear in South Korea’s foundation After having shortlisted four designs mythology and are closely associated with out of 14,599 received from all over the Korean culture and folklore. world, the Tokyo 2020 Emblems Selec- tion Committee selected the entry sub- Bandabi is symbolic of strong will and cour- mitted by designer Asao Tokolo prior to age, and also the symbol animal of Gangwon obtaining the fi nal approval of the Tokyo Province. In the name “Bandabi,” “banda” 2020 Executive Board. comes from “bandal” meaning “half-moon,” Rio 2016016 indicating the white crescent on the chest The medalsls which athletesathletes will competecompete of the Asiatic Black Bear, and “bi” has the POCOG President Hee-beom Lee said: “The for this Septembereptember havehave been revealed by meaning of celebrating the Games. mascots will now spearhead our communi- the Rio 2016016 OrganisingOrganising Committee and cation activities and marketing initiatives. Brazilian MMint.int. Both mascots are designed to express a wide With (this) meaningful step forward, POCOG spectrum of emotions such as passion, joy, will use the momentum to gain more public In addition to featuringfeaturing braille, the Paralym- enthusiasm and love to actively engage the support and excitement for the Games.” pic Gamess medals inincludeclude a specialspecial inno- public. vation; theyy have a titinynny device inside which Sir Philip Craven, IPC President, said: makes a noisenoise when the medal isis shaken, “Paralympic mascots are iconic and essen- allowing visuallysually impaiimpairedred athletes to know if tial parts of any Games. Like the Paralympi- they are gold,old, silver or bronze (g(goldold has the ans who will compete at PyeongChang 2018, loudest noise,se, bronze the ququietest).ietest). bears are strong, courageous and deter- mined creatures who make the most of their Athletes who top the podium in Rio will re- surroundings. Bears are also seen as friend- ceive medals made from gold that has been ly and cuddly, and I am excited to see how extracted without the use of mercury and ‘Bandabi’ interacts with the public between which was produced according to strict sus- now and the Games.” tainability criteria, from the initial mining This chequered design in the traditional all the way through to the design of the end New POCOG President Japanese colour of indigo blue expresses product. Hee-beom Lee was appointed as the new a refi ned elegance and sophistication, President of the POCOG in early and it was highly acclaimed by the public The silver and bronze medals have been pro- A new light railway in Rio will make it easier for people to get around the city May to succeed Yang-ho Cho, who for exemplifying the country and the city duced using 30 per cent recycled materials. stepped down. of Tokyo. Half of the plastic in the ribbons which will The city has invested in ramps at the sta- will be carried by the diff erent delegations be used to hang the medals around athletes’ tions and has installed tactile paving, guiding to form a gigantic mosaic, whose design re- Lee began his career as a government Composed of three varieties of rectan- necks comes from recycled plastic bottles. blocks and spaces for wheelchair users in mains a secret. offi cial in 1972 and served as Minister gular shapes, the design represents dif- the trams. of Trade, Industry and Energy from ferent countries, cultures and ways of To coincide with the medals launch the offi - Other renowned names who will participate 2003 to 2006. He then took on thinking. It incorporates the message of cial slogan of the Games “A New World” was Picciani said that during the Paralympic in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies executive positions at various “Unity in Diversity.” It also conveys the unveiled. The core values of the slogan and Games there will be a free shuttle service that include stylist Ronaldo Fraga and artist institutions and companies in- fact that the Olympic and Paralympic the manifesto are unity, respect for diversity will take people with an impairment between Guto Lacaz. Star musicians Teresa Cristina, cluding the Korea International Games seek to promote diversity as a and the will for change. venues and public transport stations. The Diogo Nogueira, Moncarco, Xande de Pilares, Trade Association, the Korea platform to connect the world. city has also expanded its fl eet of special Hamilton Holanda and Pretinho da Serrinha Employers Federation, STX En- Mobility for all taxis for people with limited mobility from 30 will come together to form a samba super ergy and STX Heavy Industries. Miguel Sagarra, IPC Governing Board From 5 June a new light rail system began last September to 92 now. The target is 100 group, ensuring that the festivities have an Member, attended the ceremony in operating in central Rio de Janeiro, dramat- by Games time. unmistakeable Brazilian fl avour. “We (have less than) 19 months left which the logos were unveiled and said: ically reducing journey times and making it until the Games, and I understand “The Paralympic Games are the world’s easier for people with a physical impairment Opening Ceremony additions “We want people to get here and encounter the constraints we face in terms of time number one sporting event for driving to get around the city. The Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony a new, fresh party, and not anything that and resources,” Lee said. “I have faith social inclusion and this emblem not will include the live creation of a work of art feels like the end of a party,” said Marcos in the capacity and vitality of the Or- only conveys the qualities and traditions “It is an option for urban mobility with 100 by ceremony director and renowned Brazil- Lima, a Paralympic integration specialist at ganising Committee, displayed by the of Japan but the excellence of the Para per cent accessibility,” Rio’s transport sec- ian artist Vik Muniz. Rio 2016. successful hosting of the Test Events athletes we can expect to see competing retary Rafael Picciani said at a press confer- this past February.” in Tokyo in four years’ time.” ence to mark 100 days until the Paralympic Taking place during the athletes’ parade, Games. the piece of art will use 500 plates, which www.rio2016.com www.pyeongchang2018.com www.tokyo2020.com 40 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 41

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS 26 July - 7 August 31 August - 4 September 10-12 September 2-10 October 9-12 October 30 November - World Championships International IPC Wheelchair European Thailand Open 4 December Qualifi cation Convention on Science, Dance Sport B Goalball (table tennis) NEC Wheelchair Tournament Education and Medicine World Cup Championship Bangkok, Thailand Tennis Masters (Football 7-a-side) in Sport (ICSEMIS) (Continents Cup) Maia, Portugal London, Vejen, Denmark Sao Paulo, Brazil Saint Petersburg, Russia Great Britain

25-30 October 16 September; 1-2 October European Para Badminton European Open Para Championships 2016 Taekwondo Championships; Oceania Open Para Taekwondo Championships

Para badminton will make its Paralympic debut at Tokyo 2020

The fi rst European Championships will be held since it was Poland and Fiji will stage Para taekwondo events later this year announced that Para badminton will be included in Tokyo 2020. Around 100 athletes from 22 countries are expected to compete The fi fth European Championships in Warsaw, Poland, will be the over 15 medal events in Beek, the Netherlands. The Champion- biggest event of 2016. As an open competition, as many as 100 ships will be the fi rst of three Continental Championships set to athletes from 30 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Amer- take place this year. icas and Oceania are expected to take part. Croatia’s defending world champion Ivan Mikulic is one to watch in the men’s K44 Reigning world champions in Denmark’s Julie Thrane and Great over 75 kg. Russia’s Ayshat Ramazanova took over the position Britain’s Rachel Choong will look to prove their dominance in the as world No. 1 in the women’s K44 under 58 kg from Denmark’s women’s singles SU5 and SS6, respectively. three-time world champion Lisa Gjessing.

Norway’s Helle Sofi e Sagoy claimed the world title in the women’s The sport looks to continue development in Oceania, with the sec- SL4, but French runner-up Faustine Noel may look for a rematch. ond regional Championships in Fiji. Athletes mostly from Asia, as well as Europe and the Americas, are expected to compete. Germany’s Thomas Wandschneider and Poland’s Bartlomiej Mroz are coming off silver medals from Worlds and will look to go one World ranking points will be at stake at both Championships, with higher in Beek in the men’s WH1 and SU5, respectively. Also do the athletes from the host continent earning higher ranking points not forget Switzerland’s Karin Suter-Erath in the women’s WH 1. that will go toward the qualifi cation process for the Tokyo 2020 Despite bronze at the Worlds, she remains No. 1 in her category. Paralympics.

bwfcorporate.com/para-badminton www.worldtaekwondofederation.net

ONES TO WATCH ONES TO WATCH

BARTLOMIEJ MROZ KARIN SUTER-ERATH HELLE SOFIE SAGOY IVAN MIKULIC AYSHAT RAMAZANOVA POLAND SWITZERLAND NORWAY CROATIA RUSSIA 42 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 ISSUE OF THE SEASON ISSUE OF THE SEASON THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 43

S F AlexisA Schaefer IS UE O The IPC’s Marketing and Commercial Director

WhatWh would you think of a person that alalwaysw wants to be called by another Before London 2012 N pperson’s name, instead of being S AS a high executive from a sponsor claimed to me that H E O pproud of their own name, achieve- E om T people would continue to associate the Paralympics mments and heritage? as a sub-event of the Olympics. He said sponsors and In May a British swimmer was disqualifi ed from a race because he failed to I hope Paralympic athletes are Proud stakeholders would not support an “independent” Paralympians andan do not think that they need brand. I disagreed with him and data from market re- the Olympic rings to showshowcase what they are – fantastic search specialists Repucom supports my stance. Their athletes that inspire and exexcite the world. cover his Olympic rings tattoo at the European Open Championships, research shows the Paralympics attract fans who like what the Games say about them, who they are and how they en- A tattootatt is an individual decision. However, I would like to breaching the IPC rule on body advertisements. The incident sparked oo is an ind gage with sport; and fans who like how the sport brings make people thinki abouti the importance of promoting the people together from across the world. Agitos, the Paralympic symbol, and why this is critical for controversy on whether this was fair or not, and its potential implications at the Paralympic Movement and its athletes. These fan bases are highly attractive for sponsors. People clearly attribute diff Rio 2016. But why is it important to preserve the Paralympic marks? If you understand the diff the group is smaller erent than valuesfor football to our or brand the Olympics, and although the lympics and Olympics, the IPC and the IOC, then you can erences between the Para- research shows that it is already stronger from a qualita- probably tell the diff tive point of view. and the Agitos. And that erence is the between point. Many the peopleOlympic do rings not know the diff erences – yet! This shows why the Paralympic Family should continue to work together to promote and protect the Paralympic Following the disqualifi brand! May’s European Open Championships, cation of a British a number swimmer of peo- at ple appeared to confuse the Paralympics and Olympics, The Agitos is a sign of positivity, hope, When the Olympic Rings are picked up by broadcasters believing they were both the same thing, despite the The Australian is a two-time world champion and London 2012 silver medallist resiliency in theand 100mequality. T42. The athletes need and photographers covering the Paralympics, it is dissem- same opinion for getting an Agitos tattoo, fact that they are two diff to stand behind it and be proud of what we inated to millions of people. It dilutes the eff If I was walking down the street and you which is reserved for ceyears one of has hard made work, to events. But let’s be clear, erent the OlympicMovements rings with identify diff the have done and will continue to do. diff erentiated understanding of the Paralympic brand and dedication and sacrifi Olympic Movement, Games and Olympians. While athletes saw the Olympic rings tattooed on me, erent causes confusion. We have seen in the past orts that to such create pic- a reach the Paralympics. may associate with the idea, the person on the street will would you think of the Paralympics? The more people who know the Paralympic tures are used and re-used. In such a case the individual not think about Paralympians when they see the Olympic logo, the more recognition the athletes get. decision of one athlete has an impact on the collective in- If you go to the Olympics, you are an Olym- Rings. However, growing the awareness and understand- I do not think so. terest of the Paralympic Movement to grow and strengthen pian. If you go to the Paralympics, you are a ing of the Agitos will clearly link them to Paralympians and When a Paralympian tattoos the Olympic the Paralympic brand. Should we accept this? Paralympian. Both are held in high regard. the values of the Paralympic Movement. It will be unique I am a proud Paralympian. I am not an rings, they hurt the Paralympic Movement. One is no less than the other. to the Paralympic Movement and promote an idea that we Olympian because I do not compete in the They make people think we are something Put it this way, when you open a can of Coca Cola, you Olympic Games. I am part of a select few all can feel extremely proud about. As a Paralympian, we are realistically 60 we are not. The simple fact of the matter don’t expect to taste Pepsi; likewise when you see the who have had the opportunity to represent is that they are aligning themselves with Olympic rings, you don’t expect to see a Paralympian. years behind the progression of ghtthe for Olym- rec- Show someone a logo of Coca Cola and Pepsi, Nike and their country at a Paralympic Games. We a separate organisation and missing the pic Games. Because of this, we fi Adidas, FIFA and FIBA, and they most likely can diff are not worse as athletes. Our accomplish- opportunity to grow the Paralympics and I want athletes to be proud of the Agitos and what the ognition, sponsors and exposure, all while tiate between the brands and what they stand for. These ments are hard earned and well deserved. educate the world about how amazing the Paralympic Movement stands for. I also want TV viewers we battle hard in the competitive arena. organisations needed time, consistency, protection and Para lympics and Paralympians are. eren- when they watch the Games and spot an athlete with an erent people and promotion to fully establish their brand identities. So when Paralympians get the Olym- Agitos tattoo to see it as the hallmark of a Proud Paralym- pic rings tattooed on themselves, it goes It is up to a number of diff against who we are and Yes, it was tough to see a Paralympian dis- pian, a role model who has sacrifi channels to assist in the progression of the The Agitos, the Paralympic symbol, was offi what wwe do. qualifi ed from an event in the European to reach the pinnacle of their sport and someone who Paralympics. But foremost it is up to us the duced 13 years ago and fi ced much of their life Open Championships for not covering his through their sporting performances redefi athletes. We are the face, heart and soul of at the Torino 2006 Winter Games.rst used To during reach the the Paralympics pointcially where intro- I believebeli to have the tattoo of the Olympic rings. It breached the believe is humanely possible. the Paralympic Games. people from all corners of the world understand what the nes what many ringringss on your body, IPC’s advertising policy. But do you under- l one Agitos symbolises, the Paralympic Movement must con- you have to fulfi stand why that policy exists and its impact Through supporting the Agitos together we can all make Without us, the progress that has been tinue to be consistent in how the brand is presented and prerequisite:pre com- in the great Paralympic Movement? the Paralympic Movement stronger and further the impact made for athletes and everyday people what other logos are displayed during our events. we have on making for a more inclusive society through petepet at an Olympic around the world with an impairment slows. Games.Ga I hold the Para sport. 44 THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 GUEST COLUMN THE PARALYMPIAN 02|2016 45 Yiannis have covered many Paralympic Games, Exarchos Television coverage will consist but never before have I seen the level of Position: of 17 live feeds from the venues, coverage that took place for London 2012. Chief Executive Offi cer supplemented by coverage from I of Olympic Broadcast- It was unprecedented. the beauty cameras and daily ing Services (OBS) highlights summaries, ultimately Consider these fi gures: making up more than 800 hours ■ 17 live feeds of competition of broadcast coverage from the and Ceremonies Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. ■ 73 Rights Holding Broadcasters (RHBs) ■ An estimated viewership of 40 million Only after the Games will we know how the reached in Great Britain fi nal fi gures compare to past Paralympics. ■ A 3.8 billion cumulative viwership worldwide Rio 2016 will be the fi rst collaboration be- tween the IPC and the Olympic Channel, Here at OBS, our broadcast coverage is de- where not only will the Olympic Channel be pendent on the RHBs’ interests, which keeps complementing existing distribution of the growing for the Paralympic Games. Evolution of broadcast Paralympics, but also producing original coverage of the Paralympics, contents around this major event. I think the reason for the increasing broad- from the perspective of the caster interest is this: The Paralympics tell OBS CEO I think the Olympic Channel can benefi t the inspiring stories and capture compelling Paralympic Movement, fi rst in enabling the sport action – that is what the broadcasters IPC to reach a worldwide audience by com- are after. plementing their current and future distribu- “The Paralympics tion agreements. Paralympic sports are in a strong position tell inspiring stories to engage viewers with amazing personal It is also a digital platform tailored to engage stories and achievements; and enhanced and capture with the younger generation through social data and analysis that breakdown for the media, since it is the best way to connect audience the extraordinary eff orts behind compelling sport with them. Also, because the Olympic Chan- the athletes’ performances. nel is not just a sports channel, but a chan- action – that is what nel about sport and its greatest stories, it will In Sydney 2000, around 50 hours were produce original programming that will carry broadcast and made available to 40 dif- the broadcasters these stories and the values of the Paralym- ferent broadcast organisations. In Athens pic Movement. The IPC can only benefi t from 2004, more than 400 hours of live coverage are after.” this additional distribution, exposure and of 14 sports were provided to 43 broadcast storytelling. And Paralympic sport generates organisations. In Beijing 2008, there were 66 Rio 2016 is expected to reach even more endlessly great stories that will appeal not RHBs from more than 80 countries from all countries and territories around the world, just to the Olympic Channel audiences, but fi ve continents. especially in the Americas, and OBS is billions of viewers watch ing the Paralympics WORLDWIDE PARALYMPIC PARTNERS preparing another comprehensive broadcast around the world. London 2012 transformed the profi le and production this September, taking on the perceptions of Paralympic sport and was in momentum generated by London 2012. that sense a real game-changer.

Viewers watched sport and listened to stories that they had never seen before on TV.

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE PARALYMPIC MOVEMENT ISSUE NO. 2 | 2016

IPC Vision: “ To enable Para athletes to achieve sporting excellence and inspire and excite the world.”

RZ_Paralympian_COVER_02_2016_final.indd 1 13.07.16 12:35