29 July 2009
Media Statement

Kiwis excel in the Rockies

Winning seventeen gold and silver medals at the recent International Blind Sports Association (IBSA) World Youth Championships is an outstanding result for the young athletes and for our nation, Labour’s Disability Issues spokesperson Lynne Pillay said.

The recent games were held in Colorado Springs, Colorado with 26 countries taking part with over 350 athletes, 150 coaches and officials and over 250 volunteers.

“I want to pay tribute to Mary Fisher of Upper Hutt who won four gold medals and three silver medals, and to Daniel Holt of Albany who won four gold medals and six silver medals,” Lynne Pillay said.

“With a combined haul of eight gold and nine silver medals these young blind athletes have the respect and admiration of their peers and all New Zealanders.

“These results are fantastic and would not have been possible without the many hours of support and coaching Mary and Daniel received.

“This is a great lead up to the 2011 IBSA World Championships and sets them up with a real chance to qualify for the 2012 London Paralympics.

“These young men and women are an inspiration to all. Such achievements show that anything is possible.” Lynne Pillay said.

ENDS

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