By Tom Lloyd, London, June 20, 2017: (Andrew Parsons candidate IPC Presidency), Following today’s confirmation by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) of the candidates shortlisted to become the next IPC President, Andrew Parsons has released the following statement:
“I am delighted that my candidacy to become the next IPC President has been confirmed and I would like to thank the Brazilian Paralympic Committee for the trust and support they have placed in me by nominating me as a candidate.
“This election comes at an exciting, but crucial, time for the IPC and Paralympic Movement, following the successes of London 2012 and Rio 2016, and with para-sport experiencing unprecedented growth under Sir Philip Craven’s guidance and leadership.
This progress has not been without its challenges and it is vital that the IPC continues to build on the strong foundations that have been laid and work in the best interests of every single para-athlete and our great family of stakeholders.
“It is vital that the next IPC President is someone who offers strong, inclusive leadership and has a clear vision that harnesses the unique potential of para-sport and its ability to inspire and excite.
I am someone who has worked in the Paralympic Movement for most of my life; as IPC Vice-President, IPC Governing Board member, Chair of the IPC Paralympic Games Committee, President of the Americas Paralympic Committee, and at the Brazilian Paralympic Committee for 20 years.
This experience means I have both the knowledge and passion required to represent the needs of our athletes, maximise the huge potential of para-sport and guide the IPC forwards.
“If elected, I want to ensure the IPC is an inclusive, dynamic and fair organisation that works in the very best interests of all 178 National Paralympic Committees, international federations and regional organisations; and places athletes at the very core of its thinking and activities. It must reach, engage and support everyone involved in para-sport, throughout their careers, so we can all grow stronger together.
“I also believe that an open and collaborative IPC is an organisation that works closely with partners across the Paralympic and Olympic Movement. If elected, I will do all that I can to strengthen relationships and work across our partner organisations to unlock untapped development and commercial potential.
“I am extremely humbled and honoured to be shortlisted as a IPC Presidential candidate and, over the coming weeks and months, I look forward to speaking with every one of our members to outline my vision for the IPC and para-sport, and to seek the views of our unique and special family.”
The new IPC President will be elected at the 18th IPC General Assembly, which takes place on 7-8 September 2017 in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.