THE Official Magazine of the International Paralympic Committee PARALYMPIAN

ISSUE 4 2007

Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD 2007 IPC General Assembly in Seoul, Korea

PASSION FOR THE PARALYMPIC MOVEMENT

The President of the International Paralympic the last two years, the General Assembly also INSIDE Committee (IPC) Sir Philip Craven heralded this approved the Financial Budget for 2008 and the year's General Assembly as a "landmark event" framework of the budget for 2009. that will pave the way to glory at the Beijing 2008 NPC Profile: Paralympic Games. The membership of three NPCs (Liberia, Panama, Hellenic the Netherlands) and one Regional Organization - Representatives from more than 70 National the Asian Paralympic Committee was ratified Paralympic Paralympic Committees (NPCs), nearly all sports, during the event. Four International Sports Committee p.6 regions and all four IOSDs gathered in Seoul, Federations, the International Cycling Union (UCI), Korea, to renew their dedication to the Paralympic the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the Movement. High profile political figures and International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and Sport Profile: officials, including the Prime Minister of Korea, Han the International Rowing Federation (FISA) were Rowing p.7 Duck-Soo, the Minister of Culture and Tourism Kim also welcomed as new membership bodies of the Jong Min, the President of KOSAD and the Korean IPC. NPC Jang Hyang-Sook were also in attendance. Para Table Tennis Addressing the delegates in his opening speech, Sir European Champs Hosted by the NPC of Korea, from 24 to 25 Philip, said: "I call upon all of you to use the valuable November 2007, the motto of the General discussions we will have during the next few days p.8 Assembly - "Passion for the Paralympic Movement: to focus and motivate yourselves for the tasks Striving Towards Global Development" - summed ahead. By drawing upon each other's strength and up the progressive nature of the event. experience we will be able to stage the most UN Training on successful Paralympic Games ever in Beijing. We Human Rights p.10 The General Assembly saw the ratification of many owe it to Paralympic athletes all over the world to important milestones for the IPC, including the deliver the kind of excellence they produce time Classification Code - an integral framework of and time again through astonishing athletic Classification Code policies and procedures relating to Classification. performances. p.11 After being presented with an overview of IPC's "As we embark on this year's General Assembly organizational performance and activities during my closing words are: listen, learn and be inspired."

SPIRIT IN MOTION

Photo ©: Jeff Vinnick / Kim Stallknecht VANOC Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys Vancouver 2010 Mascot Paralympic Awards p.12 Athlete Profile: Kirsten Research Into Nordic Sit Meets the Public p.3 Bruhn p.5 Skiing p.11 PARALYMPIC GAMES: BEIJING 2008 Editorial Medals for Beijing Unveiled

We are now coming to the The medals for the Beijing 2008 Paralympic a campaign launched to find the best design end of what has been a Games are ready - all that's required now is schemes for the Beijing Olympic Games remarkable year for the for the athletes to win them. medals. International Paralympic Committee (IPC), and I The Beijing 2008 Organizing Committee for The materials, distinctiveness, weight, would like to take this the Olympic and Paralympic Games measurements and pattern of the medals opportunity to reflect on (BOCOG) unveiled the medals on 14 have met the approval requirements of the some of the highlights. November during a press conference at the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). Beijing Olympic Media Centre. The beginning of the year was marked by the Leading officials from BOCOG and the China excitement of the IPC Disabled Persons' Federation, Paralympic Alpine Skiing World Cup athletes and a representative of the Beijing and Biathlon & Cross Country Skiing World 2008 Paralympic Medal Sponsor BHP Billiton Cup. During this season, which saw were in attendance. competitions taking place on slopes all over the world, our athletes put in some The design concept and pattern of the astounding performances. medals for the Beijing 2008 Paralympics is similar to the one for the Beijing 2008 And the summer months proved to be just Olympic Games. Made out of gold, silver, as exhilarating for the world of Paralympic bronze and jade, the medals have been Sport. One of this year’s most exhilarating designed to signify the concept of "One events was the Visa Paralympic World Cup World One Dream." in Manchester, Great Britain. During seven days of intense competition in May, 15 Research and planning for the medal design World Records were smashed. started in November 2006. An analysis of Photo ©: BOGOG the experiences from previous Paralympic At the end of July, I flew to Brazil for the Games led to the formulation of the 2007 Parapan American Games in Rio de concepts, requirements, creation methods Janeiro. Excellent sporting performances and development scheme for the Beijing were seen throughout the event, especially Paralympic Medals. during the Athletics, Powerlifting and Swimming competitions, where a number Based on their experience of designing for of records were broken. the Olympic Games, specific designers were invited to create the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Shortly after Rio, I was boarding a plane to Medals. Germany, where IPC staged its largest International Paralympic Day (IPD) in the The designers were from the Central fabulous setting of the Brandenburg Gate Academy of Fine Arts, the Academy of Fine in Berlin. It was hugely satisfying for me to Arts at Tsinghua University and China see so many people experiencing the Banknote Printing and Minting Corporation. excitement of Paralympic Sport by All of the designers had submitted entries to watching their favourite athletes compete and having a go themselves. And we were PARALYMPIC GAMES: LONDON 2012 delighted to have HRH Grand Duchess of Luxembourg and her daughter HRH Princess Alexandra as our honorary guests. Stadium Construction Due to Start

It has also been hugely encouraging to The stadium design for the London 2012 In his response to the stadium design Sir assess the progress being made towards Olympic and Paralympic Games has been Philip Craven, President of the International Beijing 2008, Vancouver 2010, London unveiled by the Olympic Delivery Authority Paralympic Committee (IPC), said: "What 2012 and Sochi 2014. The Beijing medals and construction is due to start in 2008. really impresses me about this design is that have now been unveiled and the it embraces the vision of legacy through its construction of the London stadium will The 80,000 seat stadium, located at the incorporation of temporary and permanent soon be underway. Months of suspense south of the Olympic Park within short elements, which will create further came to an end when Vancouver’s walking distance of the Olympic Village and opportunities for the development of sport in charming Paralympic Mascot Sumi was warm up area, will host both the Opening and Great Britain. This is one way in which introduced to the public, and huge progress Closing Cermonies and athletic competitions London will benefit in the long-term from is being made towards the 2014 during the Games. It is expected that the hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games." Paralympic Games in Sochi with the project, designed and built by Team Stadium creation of the Co-ordination Commission. will be complete by 2011. Chair of the London 2012 Organizing Committee Lord Seb Coe Towards the end of the year IPC had the Since the bowl-like creation said: "We talk a lot about chance to reflect on what we have was unveiled at the beginning milestones, but few will be achieved, as well as map out our course for of November, many remarks more exciting than this, the 2008 and beyond. Of course, our General have been made about its unveiling of the Olympic Assembly in November, which took place in multi purpose elements, Stadium, which will be the Seoul, Korea provided the perfect which will allow it to be centre piece of our Olympic opportunity for the Paralympic Family to converted to a permanent Park. The stadium will stand prepare for the challenges ahead with an 25,000 seat stadium after for everything we talked increased sense of togetherness. the Games have finished, about in the bid: it will be providing sports facilities for inspiring, innovative and Due to the remarkable accomplishments of professional athletes and the sustainable - the theatre within this year, I am confident that we will start wider public. which the Olympic Games and the New Year with an increased sense of Paralympic Games will be unity. Be in no doubt, IPC is in excellent The main features of the played out, leaving behind top design, budgeted at €693m (£496m), include class sporting and community facilities after

EDITORIAL shape to stage the best ever Paralympic Games in Beijing, where, once again our a sunken bowl, built into the ground and the Games." athletes will inspire and excite the world. designed to bring spectators closer to the action; a cable supported roof stretching 28 Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell decribed the Season’s metres around the whole stadium and design as a "stunning" and "truly imaginative Greetings. demountable seating. Catering and concept." merchandisingPhoto ©: Getty willImages be grouped into self- "We will ensure that the Olympic Stadium contained 'pod structures’ around the access leaves a lasting legacy for London and the Sir Philip Craven, MBE PAGE level of the stadium. UK - a flexible venue with athletics at its IPC President heart.” 2 THE PARALYMPIAN ISSUE 4: 2007 PARALYMPIC GAMES:VANCOUVER 2010

Mascot Sumi Introduced to the World Months of mystery and anticipation finally developing and designing these Vancouver ended in November after Sumi, Miga and 2010 characters. They will tell a unique story Quatchi, the mascots for the Vancouver about the Games and they will appeal to 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games children across Canada and around the were introduced to the public. world. The mascots truly represent the people, geography and spirit of British Sumi, the Paralympic Mascot, unveiled on 28 Columbia and Canada, while personifying the November, is the animal spirit who wears the essence of the 2010 Winter Games." hat of the orca whale, flies with the wings of the mighty thunderbird and runs on the furry Sir Philip Craven, President of the legs of the black bear. With a name that is International Paralympic Committee (IPC) derived from the Salish word 'sumesh,' said: "The mascot for the Vancouver 2010 meaning 'guardian spirit,' Sumi is passionate Paralympic Winter Games is an excellent about the environment and is a fan of all choice and I am sure that it will be loved by Paralympic sports. Miga, a snowboarding sea children all over the world. It represents the bear, and Quatchi, a shy and gentle giant, values of the Paralympic Movement, but also both mascots for the Vancouver 2010 links to the Aboriginal Canadian culture and Olympic Winter Games, were presented at tradition." the same time. For more information visit the official website Designed by the Vancouver-based company www.vancouver2010.com. Meomi Design, the Olympic and Paralympic Mascots were inspired by Aboriginal mythological creatures and also strongly influenced by popular culture, modern animation styles, the Olympic and Paralympic Movements, the culture and wildlife of British Columbia and Canada.

Joining the three mascots is a friend, or 'sidekick,' by the name of Mukmuk. Mukmuk is a rare marmot unique to the mountains of Vancouver Island. While he is not officially a Mascot, Mukmuk is considered an honorary member of the team and enjoys surprising his friends by popping up on occasion to share in the spirit and fun of the Games.

"Miga, Quatchi and Sumi are ambassadors for Canada and we are thrilled to introduce them to Canadians and people from around the world," said John Furlong, CEO for the Vancouver 2010 Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC). "Great care has been taken in Photo ©: Jeff Vinnick / Kim Stallknecht VANOC PARALYMPIC GAMES: SOCHI 2014 Vice President Joins Co-ordination Commission

The International Paralympic Committee's Samaranch Jr. (ESP), Rebecca Scott (CAN), (IPC) Vice President Miguel Sagarra has Tsunekazu Takeda (JPN), Cesare Vaciago joined the International Olympic Committee (ITA). (IOC) Co-ordination Commission for Sochi 2014. And for the first time after Sochi's election to host the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Mr. Sagarra, who was a former member of Games, IPC CEO Xavier Gonzalez and IPC the IOC Evaluation Commission for the Sochi Fundraising and Sponsorship Director Sergio 2014 Winter Games, will be one of 13 people Furman visited the Sochi 2014 Organizing who will assist the Sochi 2014 Organizing Committee in Moscow, Russia. Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games during the seven years leading up to At the beginning of December, the IPC the Games. representatives met with Sochi 2014 CEO Dmitry Chernyshenko and received a general The commission will act as a link between the overview of the planning for the 2014 Games, International Olympic Committee (IOC), the discussing several aspects, including the IPC, the Organizing Committee, the organizational structure, legacy and International Federations (IFs) and the integrated planning. National Olympic and Paralympic Committees. "This visit was a great opportunity to exchange ideas and get a first overview of The commission's Chairperson, Jean-Claude the Paralympic Winter Games organization Killy has met with the Russian Prime Minister and transition. We are looking forward to Victor Zubkov and representatives of Sochi working with the Organizing Committee to 2014 to conduct a Sochi Orientation Seminar stage a great Paralympic Winter Games in in Moscow, Russia, last week. 2014", said CEO Gonzalez.

The members of the IOC Co-ordination Mr. Gonzalez and Mr. Furman also had the

Commission are: Jean-Claude Killy (FRA), opportunity to meet with Sochi 2014 Director Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys Rémy Charmetant (FRA), Ottavio Cinquanta of Strategic Planning, Dmitry Mosin, Russian (ITA), Philippe Drevon (FRA), René Fasel Paralympic Committee First Vice President, IPC Vice President Miguel Sagarra (SUI), Gian-Franco Kasper (SUI), Gunilla Pavel Roshkov, and former Paralympian Lindberg (SWE), HRH The Prince of Orange Mikhail Terentiev, who has been appointed as PAGE (NED), Miguel Sagarra (ESP), Juan Antonio Sochi's Director of Paralympic Games. 3 FUNDRAISING NEWS

Photo ©: Aronson

Heidi Makes a Splash for the Paralympic Movement

Dr. Ludwig Guttmann's passion and to raise money for such a great cause. Reflecting on his daughter's courage and commitment for Paralympic Sport has People should just think of something that determination Lew said: "We are very proud survived the test of time and lives on through they really like to do and do it to raise money of how she has been doing and how she did future generations of his family. for something they really like", she added. in this event, and that she took such a strong interest in it. Californian teenager Heidi Aronson has Lew Aronson's Grandmother, Alice always taken a special interest in the Bamberger emigrated to the East Coast of "You can do these things - it's well within your Paralympic Movement since she learned that the United States with her husband in the grasp but something like this would her great grandmother's brother Dr. 1940s, around the same time that her overwhelm a lot of people and prevent them Guttmann was the man that founded it. And brother Dr. Guttmann left for Stoke from getting started." it is this piece of family history, coupled with Mandeville in the Great Britain, where he set Heidi's enthusiasm for the Paralympic Games up a spinal injuries centre at the Stoke IPC's Fundraising and Sponsorship Director that prompted her to do swimathon to raise Mandeville Hospital in 1944. In his treatment Sergio Furman also acknowledged the money for the Paralympic Movement. of injured Second World War soldiers Dr. importance of Heidi's achievements: "It is the Guttmann used sport as a central part of compassion, dedication and commitment of The 13-year-old, who attends Blach remedial treatment and rehabilitation of supporters like Heidi that enable more Intermediate School in Los Altos, California, persons with a disability. Paralympic athletes to reach their potential. raised a massive €2727 ($4000) after Funds raised through donations are swimming 200 lengths of an Olympic sized Sport used for rehabilitation purposes rapidly extremely important because they help IPC pool - a total distance of 10km. More than 40 developed into recreation sport, which was to globally promote Paralympic Sport and people sponsored Heidi who completed her eventually practiced at a competitive level. create even more opportunities for people to challenge in just 3:09. On 28 July 1948, the day of the Opening achieve empowerment and inspiration Ceremony of the 1948 Olympic Games in through the Paralympic Movement. Every Heidi, who started swimming at the age of London, Dr. Guttmann organized the first Paralympic supporter should follow Heidi's seven, said: "Well at the hundredth length, I competition for wheelchair athletes which he example and contribute, even if it's a small just kept thinking, I'm half way there - I don't named the Stoke Mandeville Games. gesture or donation, since it all adds up at the have that much more left to do. end" In 1970s, Lew saw Dr. Guttmann on his 80th "When I finished I was really tired but really birthday party and remembers him as being If you would like to support the Paralympic happy and when I got home I just slept." remarkably similar to his grandmother. Lew Movement by donating to the IPC, click on described him as a very determined man who the "donations" link on www.paralympic.org. "Everyone should do this - it feels really good "spoke what was on his mind."

PAGE 4 THE PARALYMPIAN ISSUE 4: 2007 ATHLETE PROFILE: KIRSTEN BRUHN Spirit of Sport

German Swimmer Kirsten Bruhn, Paralympic gold medallist and world record holder, revealed that sporting success lies in the power of the mind.

"I'm doing many things with my mind - mental attitude is very important for me. It's exciting every time whether I'm in a competition or training", she explained. At the height of her endurance Kirsten tells herself to "go through it, go through it - it's not going to kill you."

“I think the sprit of sport for every person is the same and it doesn't matter who you are or if you have a disability or no disability. If you want to be free in your mind and in your body sport is the only way you can do that.”

After Kirsten sustained serious injuries and lost the use of her legs as a result of a Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys motorbike accident in Greece, she had to draw upon vast amounts of inner strength to However, Kirsten has worked hard to achieve come to terms with what had happened. global recognition as an athlete and this is illustrated through her strict training regime. Commenting on how she felt after her She trains six days a week for four hours and accident, Kirsten said: "You try to reflect on in the run up to a professional competition it but it doesn't work. You have to realize she trains every day for eight hours. what really happened - you have to handle it every day and get used to the reality." "It's a very busy routine but we have to do that to get to the top", she said.

Kirsten, who has always been a keen Encouraging others to get involved in the swimmer, took up the sport again in 2002. excitement of sport, she added: "I think the Since then her career as a Paralympic sprit of sport for every person is the same swimmer has taken her all over the world and and it doesn't matter who you are or if you she has become one of the most admired have a disability or no disability. athletes of her generation. "If you want to be free in your mind and in your body sport is the only way you can do that." Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys Tributes Paid to Joan Scruton

the Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Aylesbury the Paralympic Movement is incalculable. Great Britain. Born in 1918 in Yorkshire, she Probably the saddest aspect of this incredible was a qualified administrator and was posted lady's life is that she never realized or in 1944 to Stoke Mandeville to receive injured understood that the Games she helped to soldiers. mould would be coming home in 2012 - had she known there would have been a huge And in her role as Secretary General for the party with Joan right in the middle." International Stoke Mandeville Wheelchair Sports Federation (ISMWSF) she was hugely instrumental in Dr. Guttman's work to develop Paralympic Sport. In the late eighties she worked with other sport organizations to establish the International Paralympic SPIRIT IN MOTION Committee (IPC). In 1999, she received a Paralympic Order for her outstanding and For more long-lasting contributions to the Paralympic Movement. information about IPC President Sir Philip Craven, said: "Joan the IPC, Paralympic was a highly revered member of the Paralympic Family. Her hard work and Sport and the commitment in those early years contributed Photo ©: Peterhouse to making Paralympic Sport the inspirational Paralympic phenomenon it is today. I offer condolences Tributes have been paid to the late Joan to Joan's friends, family and loved ones. She Scruton MBE for her outstanding Movement visit will be sadly missed but her spirit will always commitment and dedication to the live on in the remarkable achievements of Paralympic Movement as the esteemed www.paralympic.org Paralympic athletes for years to come." colleague of Dr. Ludwig Guttmann. Tony Sainsbury, Head of the Paralympic Joan, who died 1 November 2007, worked Planning at London 2012, also offered his with Dr. Guttmann in the spinal injuries unit at condolences. He said: "Joan's contribution to

PAGE 5 NPC PROFILE A Remarkable Presidency

When Spyros Stavrianopoulos took the helm of the Hellenic Paralympic Committee (HPC) in 2004 one of his first challenges was the ATHENS 2004 Paralympic Games. Despite having successfully come through the biggest test of his presidency, in his first term of office, Mr. Stavrianopoulos equalled this remarkable achievement in the subsequent work he has done for the Paralympic Movement in Greece.

Since the Paralympic Games, Mr. Stavrianopoulos, having been re-elected for a second term, pioneered the introduction and propagation of two Paralympic sports in Greece - Wheelchair Dance Sport and Shooting. He also took up several positions on organizations committed to disability rights issues and was the founding member of two federations and clubs set up to improve the lives of persons with a disability through sport. Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys Spyros Stavrianopoulos receives a It was these and other achievements that The glittering opening ceremony of the Paralympic Order. earned Mr. Stavrianopoulos a Paralympic ATHENS 2004 Paralympic Games - the Order - the most prestigious award offered to highlight of Stavrianopoulos’ presidency. individuals involved with the Paralympic How many members does your organization Movement. Mr. Stavrianopoulos, who is to bring new athletes into Paralympic have? received his award at the International Sport. We are in the process of inviting young Paralympic Committee's General Assembly in persons with a disability to get involved in The Hellenic NPC is comprised of 13 Seoul, Korea, said: "It fills me with joy that Paralympic sports. We have developed a members. We are also in co-operation with the such a big honor is awarded to me. But it also programme for new athletes and discover Hellenic Sports Federation for People with a fills me with responsibility to offer even more young talented people for Paralympic Sports. Disability, the Hellenic Wheelchair Basketball to the Paralympic Movement, and work even Federation, the Hellenic Yachting Federation harder to promote the Paralympic Movement What are the main objectives of your and the Hellenic Rowing Federation. We are in Greece and all over the world." organization? also in close co-operation with the Sport Ministry. We are working with the Ministry to And when asked about the importance of The Hellenic NPC is the authority responsible develop Paralympic sports and sports for promoting the values of the Paralympic for the development and promotion of the people with a disability. Movement, he said: "Sport is a social Paralympic Movement in Greece. It oversees phenomenon, contributing, not only, to the the selection and formation of the Hellenic What has been the highlight of your improvement of a person's physical health teams that represent Greece at the presidency so far? but also to the development of team spirit, Paralympic Games. It promotes the solidarity and respect, fostering social Paralympic Movement in Greece and offers One of the highlights was the staging of the cohesion and contributing to the evolution of incentives to people with a disability and Paralympic Games in our country and to a young athlete into a complete and well encourages people, especially young people, support the biggest organization of balanced personality." to get actively involved in sports and athletic Paralympic Games so far. At the ATHENS activities. Our NPC offers opportunities for 2004 Paralympic Games, the Greek The Paralympian had the chance to talk to people with a disability to reach their delegation was the biggest in history, Mr. Stavrianopoulos about the work of the maximum athletic potential and achieve consisting of 137 athletes. The Paralympic Hellenic NPC and how he foresees the future excellence in sport and inspire others through Games took Paralympic Sport to a new level of the Paralympic Movement in Greece. their achievements. Supporting a wide range of athletic performance and organizational of activities from recreational sport to high quality. The Paralympic Games also acted as When and how was the NPC Greece performance athleticism for people with a a very important tool to shift the interest of established? disability, the Hellenic NPC strives to public opinion towards issues of people with encourage people with a disability to take a disability. The Hellenic NPC was officially established in part in sports and feel the joy of sport. It 2000 as a successor of previous supports the socialisation and the equal Is the NPC involved in any educational organizations, which promoted sports for integration of persons with a disability into programmes? people with a disability. It came into being to Greek society. co-ordinate all actions and act as an umbrella The HPC is involved in a line of educational organization for all sports organizations Who are your main target groups and how do programmes. Every year we participate in the involved in Paralympic Sport in Greece. you intend to reach them? biggest school sport festival in Greece called Mathitiada. Schools from all over Greece How many athletes does your NPC have? We aim to get all persons with a disability participate, developing a Paralympic Park on involved in Paralympic sports, while also the sports ground. This offers pupils a first- Our organization caters for a wide range of developing high performance sport. We are hand experience of Paralympic Sport. And as athletes all over Greece who are training in 18 trying to achieve this through a wide range of part of a programme, run by the Ministry of out of the 20 sports on the Paralympic educational programmes and the Young Education, Paralympians share their Programme. Under the Hellenic NPC more Talent programme. experiences with school children and promote than 65 sport clubs and 4 Sports Federations Paralympic Sport and the Paralympic Games are co-operating to develop sports and in schools all over Greece. spread the Paralympic Movement in Greece. What excites you about the future? It is estimated that more than 800 athletes What are the biggest challenges faced by the are actively involved in training in Paralympic What makes me feel very confident about NPC at the moment? sports. Paralympic Sport is that it makes athletes develop a balanced personality, allowing them One of the biggest challenges we face is to to be actively involved in society and in reap the benefits of the ATHENS 2004 professional life. Besides all athletic Paralympic Games and turn them into a characteristics it helps them develop traits lasting legacy that will translate into the that are very useful in social and professional constant and dynamic growth of the life. Paralympic Movement. Another big challenge

PAGE 6 THE PARALYMPIAN ISSUE 4: 2007 SPORT PROFILE: ROWING Rowing Excites Kenya

The Secretary General of the Kenya Rowing Commenting on the increased appeal of the and who cannot do. and Canoe Association (KRACA) Seifudin sport, the 45-year-old said: "It's the "Once given the chance they commit Patwa spoke to the Paralympian about the treatment of a boat by another human themselves fully - it's just a case of finding growth of Adaptive Rowing in Kenya and being against the elements, the water and out that they can do it." how he is preparing his athletes to qualify the waves. It's about being at one with the for the Paralympic Games. environment.” Mr. Patwa now wants his athletes to prove that “they can do it” at elite level by Mr. Patwa, set up KRACA in 1995 in “Many people cannot believe the strength competing at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Mombassa, Kenya, to share his "passion" of the rowers, some of whom are double- Games. And, as part of efforts to select a for water sports with other people in his amputees or polio victims. They can't team to compete at the final qualification community. believe these people are able to row a boat, regatta in Munich, Germany around 17 let alone enter a race - this catches a lot of athletes received specialist training at a More than 12 years later, the association people's attention”, he added. series of workshops hosted by KRACA has set up ten clubs across Kenya and between 24 November and 1 December. become a valuable part of the country's Paralympic Movement by creating sport “It's is all very well having a passion The workshops, organized in conjunction opportunities for persons with a disability for yourself but you need to share with FISA and the Kenya NPC, gave through Adaptive Rowing. the passion for it to grow. It's hugely Category TA (trunk and arms) and Category satisfying for me to see that the A (arms only) the chance to work with "I have always had a passion for water sport has now spread.” professional coaches and receive medical sports - Sailing and Rowing. It's is all very assessments from physiotherapists. well having a passion for yourself but you need to share the passion for it to grow. It's However, it took some time for Mr. Patwa The workshops focused on the international hugely satisfying for me to see that the and his colleagues to convince the athletes classification of athletes and addressed sport has now spread", said Mr. Patwa. that they could row a boat, let alone win a problems relating to the transportation of race. He said: "At first it was difficult athletes. The association included Adaptive Rowing in convincing people with a disability that they its programme two years ago. The can do these things and take a boat out on International Rowing Federation (FISA) and water. Sometimes they would see it as if we the Kenyan Ministry of Sports provided are planning to go to the moon or funding for 30 boats suitable for able bodied something. That's the main barrier, breaking athletes and athletes with a disability. people's preconceptions about who can do

SPORT NEWS Eindhoven and Christchurch to host 2010 World Champs

The Governing Board voted in favor of the IPC called for bid applications from all recommendations put forward by the Bid over the world to host the World Evaluation Committee that Christchurch, Championships. Suitable candidates were New Zealand (Athletics) and Eindhoven, the then asked to submit further proposals and Netherlands (Swimming) should host the site inspections were carried out in The World Championships in 2010. Netherlands, Spain, New Zealand and USA. Other candidate cities competing to host the The announcement of the winning countries 2010 World Championships were Barcelona, followed an extensive bid application and Spain (Athletics), and Minneapolis, USA review process, which started in 2006 when (Swimming). Photo ©: Gallo images Viable candidates were required to complete a detailed bid application. During the review and evaluation stage, site visits were conducted and all bid applicants had the from Barcelona and Minneapolis for their opportunity to submit further details of their significant efforts. bid proposal. All bid applicants presented their final proposals to the IPC World "It was a hard decision for the IPC Governing Championships Bid Evaluation Committee in Board. During the bid process, we saw strong November in Bonn, Germany. presentations and commitments from all bid authorities. The IPC is sure that the selected IPC President Sir Philip Craven said: "I cities will ensure great and exciting congratulate Christchurch and Eindhoven for Championships and promote Paralympic their respective selections and extend our Sport in the best way." sincere appreciation to the bid authorities Photo ©: Prezioso

PAGE 7 SPORT NEWS Para Table Tennis Wheelchair World Solleftea to Host European Champs Champs Qualifier Paralympic World Cup

France rose to supremacy at the Para Table Wheelchair Curling teams from Italy and The IPC and the National Paralympic Tennis European Championships in Slovenia. Sweden qualified for the World Committee of Sweden signed an agreement Championships after battling their way to that established the organizational elements More than 460 athletes from 35 countries victory at a toughly fought competition in required to stage the first ever Paralympic competed at the 2007 Championships in Scotland. Winter World Cup in Solleftea, Sweden in Kranjska Gora. The event, organized by 2009 and 2011. ZSIS-POK, the Sports Federation for the The Wheelchair Curling Championships Disabled of Slovenia, took place from 10 to Qualifying Tournament, staged by the World The Paralympic Winter World Cup will be the 21 October. Curling Federation (WCF) at the Inverness Ice biggest international biannual multi-sport Centre from 5 to 9 November, will be competition outside of the Paralympic Winter The French team claimed 22 medals, nine of remembered for its exciting tie-breakers. Games. which were gold. Alena Kanova from Slovakia and Tommy Urhaug from Norway were A total of nine countries (China, Czech All five Paralympic Winter sports (Alpine heralded as the best players of the Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Great Skiing, Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing, Ice Championships in the Wheelchair category. Britain, Italy, Poland, Sweden) came to Sledge Hockey and Wheelchair Curling) will be And the performances of Natalia Partyka Scotland to fight for one of the two available showcased at the event. from Poland and Ivan Karabec from the places at the World Wheelchair Curling Czech Republic earned them the accolade of Championships in Switzerland. The signing ceremony on 23 November took best players in the standing category of the place on the occasion of the IPC General event. Italy won 6:4 in a tie-breaking match against Assembly in Seoul, Korea. IPC CEO Xavier Denmark - a victory that earned the Italian Gonzalez, Kari Marklund, President of the The Championships coincided with the team a place at the World Championships in Swedish NPC, Stig Carlsson, General Slovenian National Paralympic Day, also held Sursee, Switzerland in February 2008. Secretary of the Swedish NPC, Eric in Kranjska Gora on 20 October. A number of Germany won its first match against Sweden Angstadt, IPC Winter Sports Manager and different sports were showcased at this but it was the Swedes that celebrated after Elysabeth Bystrom and Jenny Karlsson from event, including Athletics, Boccia, Goalball, winning the final tiebreaker. China, the the Solleftea Organizing Committee, attended Judo, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Table newest country to join the sport, won one the event. Tennis, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair match against the Czech Republic. Tennis. Visitors were given the chance to The Paralympic Winter World Cup will provide watch Paralympic athletes in action, as well The tournament was the first WCF a platform for Paralympic athletes from all put their own sporting talent to the test by competition to be hosted in Inverness. over the world to compete at the highest level trying out the sports. Building work on the venue was finished days and represent their country. before the event opened. The Paralympic Winter World Cup will play a critical role in providing competition between Paralympic Winter Games. And the. Patron of the event will be HRH Queen Silvia of Sweden.

The Paralympic Winter World Cup will replace the Solleftea Winter Games, which have taken place every two years since 1995, and will be a hotly anticipated event on the international Paralympic Winter Sport calendar.

For more information visit the official website at www.paralympicwinterworldcup.com.

Photo ©: Ivo Drinovec Photo ©:New York Road Runners Action at the Para Table Tennis Champs (left) and Hunkeler at the finish of the New York Marathon (right). Glorious Comeback for Edith Hunkeler

Wheelchair athlete Edith Hunkeler of Australian Kurt Fearnley, broke the tape in the marathon distance just a year and a half Switzerland forged a record-breaking return 1:33:58, which secured his place as ago, took third in 1:56:9. to New York City in her first marathon since champion for the second year in a row. But an accident in September 2006 took her out Fearnley revealed later that he struggled in In the men's race, Krige Schabort, finished of the racing circuit. In a near-perfect the final stages. "With 10km left, the fast second in 1:35:8 and Masazumi Soejima comeback, Hunkeler took gold, beat her own pace caught up to me," he said. made Japan proud with a 1:36:16 third-place course record by 48 seconds with her 1: finish in his New York debut. 52:38 finish. Fearnley will be back next year to take the hills again and try to break his course record Chantal Petitclerc from Canada and Sandra Hunkeler's fall, at the 2006 IPC World from 2006. As for this year, "the finish line Graf, of Switzerland, took fourth and fifth in Championships Marathon, crushed her right couldn't have come soon enough," he said. the women's race. Saul Mendoza and Aaron leg so severely that doctors feared they Gordian, both from Mexico, rounded out the would have to amputate it. Two major Hunkeler, Shelly Woods, and Amanda top five in the men's field. surgeries later, with another procedure McGrory held the lead pack until Hunkeler scheduled for next year, Hunkeler has defied broke away between 35 and 40km. Woods With thanks to www.nycmarathon.org the odds, and she is setting the bar high for took second in 1:54:19, while McGrory, who future competitors. has been winning races since she first tried

PAGE 8 THE PARALYMPIAN ISSUE 4: 2007 GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2007

Passion for the Paralympic Movement continued from page 1

Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD

Scenes from the opening ceremony of the 2007 IPC Conference and General Assembly.

Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD

IPC President Sir Philip Craven meets Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-Soo on the occasion of IPC’s General Assembly

PAGE 9 IPC NEWS Seoul Declaration Governing Board Sports’ Council

The energy and zeal of the International The International Paralympic Committee The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Paralympic Committee's (IPC) General staged its 48th official meeting of the hosted its annual Sports' Council meeting in Assembly was brought to a close with a Governing Board on the occasion of the Bad Honnef, Germany. promise to enrich the rapid growth of the General Assemby in Seoul, Korea. Paralympic Movement. Representatives from 22 of the 25 sports During two days of meetings, which finished affiliated the with IPC attended the event, The signing of the Seoul Declaration on 25 on 21 November , board members approved held from 19 to 21 October. Officials from November symbolized a commitment the technical delegates for the Vancouver the Beijing 2008 Organizing Committee between the IPC and its members and the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games and the (BOCOG), the Vancouver 2010 Organizing Korean National Paralympic Committee to Paralympic Games Chapter of the IPC Committee (VANOC) and the London 2012 advance the rights of Paralympic athletes, Handbook, outlining principles for the Organizing Committee (LOGOG) conducted achieve sporting excellence, promote the organization of Paralympic Games. formal presentations to the Council and held values of the Paralympic Movement and side meetings to address planning for future empower young people through Paralympic A debriefing was given of the Torino 2006 Paralympic Games. Sport. Paralympic Winter Games and reports were provided on the progress being made Representatives from the International In his closing speech Sir Philip Craven, towards the Beijing 2008, Vancouver 2010 Cycling Union (UCI), the International Archery summed up the significance of the event. He and London 2012. Federation (FITA), IPC's Athletes With High said: "I am sure that I am not the only one Support Needs Committee, the IPC's who will come away from this General The Governing Board also received updates Athletes' Council, Regions' Council and Assembly feeling that there is an increased on the budget for the financial year 2007, the International Sports Organization for the sense of unity and understanding between work of various IPC Standing Committees Disabled (IOSD) Council attended the IPC and its members. It is these qualities, and Councils, as well as approved the meetings. combined with unwavering dedication, which transfer of governance of IPC Archery to the will pave our way to glory at Beijing. By International Archery Federation (FITA). Several topics were addressed, including the merging organizational expertise with future direction and role of the IPC Sports astonishing athletic accomplishment the 2008 The next Governing Board Meeting will take Council, the IPC 2007 General Assembly, Games will inspire and excite the world!" place in February 2008 in Bonn, Germany, at updates on the IPC Sport Governance and IPC Headquarters. Management Initiative, the IPC Classification The pledges made in the Seoul Declaration Code and the IPC Anti-Doping Programme. were derived from the topics of the IPC Conference, which kicked off with a glittering Opening Ceremony at the Grand Intercontinental Hotel in Seoul on 22 November.

More than 250 delegates attended the event and took part in meetings and breakout sessions on a number of different subjects, including the Organizational Development Initiative (ODI), Anti-Doping and Therapeutic Use Exemption, Paralympic Day, Paralympic School Day (PSD) and Youth Round Table. The World Academy of Sport also conducted a session on Communication and Stakeholder Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD Relations. IPC’s 48th official meeting of the Governing Board. DEVELOPMENT NEWS

Rights for All

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) access to sport, while also highlighting that its Commenting on the importance of the is committed to supporting and promoting measures will only be enforced once the training sessions IPC Development manager human rights for all Paralympic Athletes and Convention is ratified by 20 countries. Amy Farkas, said: "The training was a great urges its member organizations to champion success. We received very positive feedback the rights of persons with a disability by At the moment, the Convention, adopted by from the participants, many of whom staging awareness campaigns in their own the UN in December 2006, has been ratified believed that what they had learnt would countries. by eleven countries and signed by 118. The enhance their work performance. I would like IPC wants people to start benefiting from the to thank all of our participants for renewing On the occasion of IPC's General Assembly in implementation of this legislation as soon as their commitment to instigate social change Seoul, Korea, members of the Paralympic possible and is therefore keen to promote the by deepening their knowledge on human Movement received valuable training in ratification and advocacy by leaders within rights and learning more about how to set up advocacy and human rights by taking part in the Paralympic Movement. campaigns in their own countries." a series of workshops organized by the IPC, the Landmine Survivors Network and During the workshops participants were Rehabilitation International. given the opportunity to increase their campaigning skills and were taught how to The workshop held from 20-21 November, develop national advocacy campaigns to call aimed to deepen the participants' for the ratification of the Convention and understanding of disability rights and how promote disability rights and specifically the they are addressed within the international right to sport. human rights framework, in particular the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Jennifer Kamande, training participant from Persons with Disabilities. During the training Kenya, said: "This training helped me to sessions IPC reiterated the importance of the understand more about human rights and Convention, which stipulates that persons how to help others, particularly women with a disability to understand their rights.” with a disability should have equal choice and Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD

Members of the Paralympic Movement receive training on human rights. PAGE 10 THE PARALYMPIAN ISSUE 4: 2007 MEDICAL AND SCIENTIFIC NEWS Classification Code

The International Paralympic Committee classification has also been addressed in the need to harmonize procedures and to give a (IPC) has approved the Classification Code - Code. clear directive to classification within the a framework of policies and procedures that Paralympic Movement was recognized by are essential to sustain the credibility and Commenting on the importance of the the IPC in 2003 and the Classification Code future progression of Paralympic Sport. Classification Code IPC Medical and was created in response to this concern. Scientific Director, Peter Van de Vliet, said: The overall objective of the Classification "The Classification Code sets the standard “The Code ensures that the best Code, approved at IPC's General Assembly, for future classification for all sports in the is to support the development of sport Paralympic Movement, and establishes a practice of operations are achieved focused classification systems to ensure consistent philosophy on classification, by all Sports and International athletes will be able to compete in the fairest specifically as it relates to the harmonization Federations, thereby protecting the environment possible by harmonizing and transparency of classification rights of all those involved in the classification procedures and outlining a set procedures. classification process, while ensuring of policies that are common to all sports. International Federations (IFs) will have to “The Code also reflects the direction of the accountability and principles of fair ensure that their Classification Rules will Paralympic Movement towards sport- play." comply with the Code. specific classification systems underpinned by scientific research and validated The process, which started in 2003, included The Code is concerned with the international assessment methods. The Code ensures that a widespread consultation on classification to classification of athletes and will ensure that the best practice of operations are achieved IPC's membership through the release of athlete evaluation is done on the basis of the by all Sports and International Federations interim versions of the Code. Feedback, impact an athlete's impairment has on their (IFs), thereby protecting the rights of all received from different stakeholders, sport performance. Sports will need to those involved in the classification process including athletes, classifiers, researchers, clearly define which athletes will be eligible to while ensuring accountability and principles International Organizations for the Disabled compete and how athletes will be grouped of fair play." (IOSDs) and IFs. for competition in a particular sport through robust, transparent and fair processes. The Classification in Paralympic Sports is the need to stipulate procedures to deal with responsibility of the respective IF that athletes who do not fully participate in governs a particular sport. However, the

Research Into the Race Patterns of Nordic Sit Skiers

Nordic Sit Skiers striving for gold will be researchers were able to identify the strive for a consistent energy management interested in new research that suggests changes in their race patterns. Researchers strategy, allowing them to utilize energy energy management is the key to success. discovered that the severe physical fatigue sources from the beginning to the end of the experienced, particularly by lower ranking race. A research project, conducted by the Italian athletes, could be due to an inefficient Paralympic Committee, the School in Sports movement pattern adopted during the last The report also highlighted that an athlete's Medicine (SSM), the University of Rome and part of the race. ability to maintain high-energy levels and the the Inter-Universities Centre of Research in maintenance of sufficient levels of muscle Bioengineering and Motor Sciences in Italy, “The report concluded that all power were essential to win the race. sheds light into the extent of physical athletes should strive for a consistent tiredness experienced by Nordic Sit Skiers at energy management strategy, the end of a race. allowing them to utilize energy The project is based on previous research sources from the beginning to the end that highlighted increased heart rates and of the race.” high oxygen consumption was particularly prevalent amongst sit skiers and, focused on the performance of athletes in LW10-12 It became apparent that higher-ranking classes at the Torino 2006 Paralympic athletes were able to maintain the same Games. speed throughout the entire race with a more stable movement pattern and less After looking at data generated from physiological effort. analyzing Nordic Sit Skiers, who were ranked in the first and last five of a 15km race, The report concluded that all athletes should

Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys Photo ©: Lieven Coudenys

Nordic Sit Skiers in action at the Torino 2006 Paralympic Games. PAGE 11 AWARDS

A Celebration of Talent and Commitment

Lauren also has also won numerous World Cup events, World Championship medals and World Cup titles.

The award for Best Team Performance went to the Canadian Ice Sledge Hockey Team, who won their country's first Paralympic gold medal in the sport. Team Canada has enjoyed a tremendous run of success over the last three years, winning the vast majority of their exhibition games, culminating in their gold medal winning performance at Torino.

Swiss athlete Thomas Pfyl's astonishing performance on the slopes of Torino earned him the award for Best Games Debut. Thomas won a gold and silver medal for Alpine Skiing at Torino (class Standing LW 9-2) and the European Cup ranking 2005/2006 and World Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD Photo ©: KPC / KOSAD Cup ranking in 2007. IPC President Sir Philip Craven at the 2007 Paralympic Awards to recognize Paralympic Awards Gala. outstanding contributions. Dr. Karl Quade's excellent work as Chef de Mission of the German Paralympic Team during the Torino 2006 Paralympic Games won him The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Awards for Media for its coverage of the the accolade of Best Games Official. Dr. celebrated the achievements of people whose Torino 2006 Paralympic Games. The award Quade will continue carrying out this role at the talent, commitment and spirit have enriched the for the written category went to the BBC Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games. Paralympic Movement and elevated the profile Sport Website for its long-standing of Paralympic Sport. Paralympic Awards for commitment to cover the Paralympic Games outstanding contributions in the areas of media, and sport for persons with a disability. Watch Paralympic Sport live science and sport were presented at a glittering ceremony held on the occasion of During the Torino 2006 Paralympic Games, on the Internet at: IPC's General Assembly in Seoul, Korea. the BBC Sport website helped to spread the www.ParalympicSport.TV spirit and dynamism of Paralympic Sport by Commenting on the Paralympic Awards Gala providing daily news reports of the event. Ceremony, sponsored by IPC's worldwide Swedish freelance photographer Mikael partners Ottobock and Samsung, IPC Helsing, based in Madrid, Spain, also President Sir Philip Craven, said: "Several imprerssed the judges for capturing the Imprint incredible people have played a vital role in excitement of the Paralympic Games. His raising the profile of the Paralympic Movement. winning photo showed visually impaired Editor: Xavier Gonzalez And it was a joy and an honor to recognize the Alpine Skier Eric Villalon and his guide Hodei remarkable achievements made in the areas of Yurrite during the Slalom event at the Torino Assistant Editor - Graphic Design: science, media and sport through the 2006 Paralympic Games. Nicola Sullivan Paralympic Awards ceremony.” Paralympic Sport Awards went to Nordic Printing: welzel+hardt GmbH Dr. Garry Wheeler, an exercise physiologist and Skier Brian McKeever (class B3) from registered psychologist from Canada, was Canada who won the Best Male Athlete All rights reserved awarded the Paralympic Science Award for his category. Brian has already won a total of International Paralympic Committee, 2007 extensive work to promote health and elite seven Paralympic medals in his career, ISSN 1609-1329 sports activities for persons with a disability at including two gold, one silver and one bronze home and abroad. Dr. Wheeler, also the Vice at the Torino 2006 Paralympic Winter Games. For subscriptions please visit President of the Alberta Division and Edmonton He has also won several World Championship www.paralympic.org Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of medals, including five gold at the 2005 IPC Canada, has worked with the Canadian Society Nordic Skiing World Championships. International Paralympic Committee for Exercise Physiology and National Fitness Adenauerallee 212-214 Accreditation and Certification Association The talent and determination of Canadian D-53113 Bonn, Germany (FACA). Dr. Wheeler was also a member of the Alpine Skier Lauren Woolstencroft (class Phone: +49-228-2097-200 International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) LW1-9), earned her the award for the best Fax: +49-228-2097-209 Sport Science and Education Committee. female athlete. Lauren took centre stage at E-mail: [email protected] the Torino 2006 Paralympic Winter Games, Web: www.paralympic.org The Australian Broadcasting Corporation where she won both a gold and silver medal. (ABC) was selected as the winner of the Before this, she had already won a total of six The views expressed in The Paralympian 'Broadcast' category of the Paralympic Paralympic medals, including three gold. are not necessarily those of the IPC. In case of republication of any part of The Paralympic Orders Paralympian, please send a copy to the Paralympic Orders - the most prestigious and, in particular for his assistance in IPC. accolade given to people connected with the organizing the FESPIC Games. Mr. Chiang Paralympic Movement - were presented on has also taken an active role to represent The publisher reserves the right to edit the occasion of IPC's General Assembly. Hong Kong during the Paralympic Games. submitted articles.

The President of the Hellenic Paralympic Governing Board member, Ann Cody Worldwide Partners: Committee Spyros Stavrianopoulos was accepted a Paralympic Order on behalf of given a Paralympic Order in recognition of his Carol Mushett. Ms. Mushett was chosen to contribution to the success of the ATHENS receive this award in 2005 for work carried 2004 Paralympic Games and his ongoing out in her previous positions as IPC commitment to promote the Paralympic Executive Technical Officer. She also Movement in Greece. Silas Chiang, a sports worked as Technical Officer and Classifier executive from Hong Kong, received a for the Cerebral Palsy International Sports Paralympic Order for long-lasting and Recreation Association (CPISRA). contributions to the Paralympic Movement

Gold Patrons: PAGE 12