On behalf of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the whole
Paralympic movement, I extend my best wishes to IBSA, which has
been a member of the IPC since its foundation in 1989, for continued excellence
and growth.
From the very first day, co-operation between IPC and IBSA
has been extremely fruitful and successful. This is reflected in the high and
still growing number of participating elite visually impaired athletes in the
ten sports on the Paralympic Programme. But it also shows in other areas, such
as in the common efforts in sports development, promotion of sports for athletes
with disabilities, classification, joint congresses and conferences, to name
just a few.
The IPC's vision is to enable athletes with extra-ordinary
abilities to achieve sporting excellence and to inspire the world. This has also
long become a maxim for IBSA and visually impaired athletes. The IPC is very
grateful to IBSA for its immense support and contribution towards realising this
vision and achieving this common goal. The IPC highly appreciates and values
IBSA's work, advice and commitment.
On behalf of the International
Paralympic Committee, I would like to emphasize that we value IBSA as more than
just a member of the IPC. For the IPC, IBSA is a partner and friend.
|
Phil Craven MBE
President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC)
One of the fundamental principles of the Olympic Movement is that sport should be open to all and encourage the harmonious development of all individuals through its practice.
It is in this spirit that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is supporting the development of sport for the blind and visually impaired, by giving recognition to the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA).
Since its creation in 1981, the IBSA has continued its efforts for the growth of disabled sport, thus contributing to the universality of sport. Through various events worldwide, the IBSA has helped to underline the important place which sport for those with a disability occupies within the sports community and its progressive integration.
I wish IBSA and its members every success in its future endeavours for the true meaning of Sport for All.
Jacques Rogge
President of the International Olympic Committee
|
 |
