With the London 2012 Paralympic Games set to kick off tomorrow, CNIB is cheering for all the athletes who will be competing in the Games, and rooting especially for the athletes with vision loss on Canada’s team.

“We’re inspired every day by Canadians who are blind and partially sighted doing amazing things,” said John Rafferty, CNIB’s President and CEO. “The Paralympic Games give the world an opportunity to see great athletes who are truly seeing beyond their vision loss.”

There are more than 30 athletes with vision loss who will compete in the London 2012 Paralympic Games. 

Victoria Nolan, for example – dubbed “The Metronome” by the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s Super Athletes ad campaign – turned to sport to overcome the depression she experienced after the birth of her second child left her with only three per cent of her sight. As part of Canada’s national adaptive rowing team, she is a medal hopeful in London.

“We’re feeling strong and gaining speed and momentum,” Victoria Nolan told CNIB. “I can't wait to see what we are capable of.”

Canadians have, historically, excelled in the Paralympic Games. Former great Paralympic athletes have inspired the next generation of Canadians with a disability to participate in sport, and pursue dreams of representing their country in international high performance competition.

Rafferty added: “Athletes with vision loss are proving they are fierce competition. At CNIB, we’re on the edge of our seats. We can’t wait to watch the events and share in the excitement!”

For the complete roster of athletes who will compete in the London 2012 Paralympic Games, visit the Canadian Paralympic Committee website here: http://www.paralympic.ca/en/London-2012/Team-Canada.html ​

Erika Bennett, Public Relations Specialist 
(416) 486-2500 ext. 8355
erika.bennett@cnib.ca