The final PTSB NextGen Community Series event of 2024 took place today at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin. The events are aimed to help young athletes with a disability uncover their Paralympic potential by trying out a variety of Para sports, including boccia, cycling, athletics, and table tennis.
Paralympians Kerrie Leonard (Para archery) and Tiarnán O’Donnell (Para rowing), were in attendance and they took part in an engaging Q&A panel discussion, where they candidly shared their personal journeys from first discovering Para sport to competing on the world stage at the Paralympic Games. Beyond the panel, they graciously gave their time, offering one-on-one encouragement, answering questions, and sharing tips specific to their respective sports.
Speaking about his own experience with PTSB NextGen O’Donnell who was an ambassador for the programme in 2023 said, “I wanted to show what can happen. I came to a day like this and then a couple of years later I was living out my dream in Paris so there’s no stopping you. If you come along today and find one sport you love, then we’re doing something right.”
Greta Streimikyte, who recently competed at her third Paralympic Games was also at the National Indoor Arena to share her expert knowledge and advice with attendees.
Their stories resonated deeply with participants and their families, many of whom were attending their first-ever Para sport event. The athletes’ experiences underscored the transformative power of sport—not just as a means of physical activity, but as a gateway to empowerment, community, and achieving dreams.
The PTSB NextGen Community Series will return in 2025. News about the future events will be advertised here on our website and via our social channels.
If you have any queries regarding the PTSB NextGen Community Series or Para sport in Ireland please e-mail info@paralympics.ie
