Paralympics Ireland has today launched a new crowdfunding campaign in a bid to raise vital funds ahead of the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games which will kick off in exactly six weeks’ time.
The new crowdfunding campaign, which is part of their ‘More Than Sport’ awareness drive that was launched earlier this year, aims to raise €25,000 in necessary funds in order to support Ireland’s elite Paralympic athletes as they prepare for the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.
Speaking about the initiative, Commercial Director at Paralympics Ireland, Patrick Haslett stated: “Ireland’s Paralympic athletes are more than elite athletes with a disability. They are extraordinary sportspeople and ambassadors who deserve the nation’s support.
“While state funding provided €1.28 million for Paralympics Ireland this year, the cost of leading Team Ireland to Rio 2016 is enormous. We’re asking the Irish public to help us on our way to raising an additional €500,000 overall in 2016 so that we can fully support Irish Paralympic athletes on their quest for success.
“Proceeds from this crowdfunding campaign and earlier fundraising events will go towards final team preparations including athlete coaching and travel costs and sports-science/medical support and competitive kit. All support will help our athletes deliver their absolute best in competition.”
Thanks to this new campaign, there are now yet even more exciting ways Irish supporters can be part of the Irish Paralympic journey to Rio, with a specially commissioned ‘Dreaming of Rio’ print a key part of the campaign.You can access the crowdfunding campaign and corresponding rewards here.
The Opening Ceremony for the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games kicks off on Wednesday, September 7th. Ireland will have 46 athletes across 10 sports competing for glory on the world stage once more, striving for Personal Best performances and of course, that glorious climb on to the podium.
You can find out more about the athletes who will represent Ireland at the Games here.
