Paul Cayard: Open letter on the International Paralympic Committee verdict
by US Sailing Team 30 Jan 2023 16:58 EST
Paul Cayard: Open letter on the International Paralympic Committee verdict © US Sailing Team
Context: On January 30, 2023, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced their decision that Para Sailing will not be reinstated for Los Angeles 2028 after a valiant worldwide campaign led by World Sailing to boost involvement in the sport and support of Para athletes.
Read the World Sailing press release and statement from World Sailing CEO, David Graham here.
Highlights:
- Following the launch of the #BackTheBid campaign in summer of 2021, there are now 41 nations on five continents active in Para sailing, and over 630 active Para Sailors registered with World Sailing.
- Five World Championships took place in 2022, and Para Sailing will make its debut at the Allianz Sailing World Championships in 2023 alongside their Olympic counterparts.
- Read more about US Para Selection Procedures here, published on January 23, 2023
- Classes: Hansa 303, 2.4mR, RS Venture Connect
From Paul Cayard:
"US Sailing is deeply disappointed to learn, today, that the International Paralympic Committee has voted not to reinstate Sailing in the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
US Sailing was a strong supporter of "Back the Bid," the Worldwide movement to reinstate Sailing in the Paralympics in Los Angeles, 2028, and would like to express our deep appreciation to the athletes, volunteers, and supporters who put their heart and soul into this initiative.
While the USA Paralympic Teams have had great success over the years, their inclusion in the Paralympics, most importantly, has served as inspiration and motivation for so many in our disabled sailing community.
Worldwide efforts to support Para Sailing are not subsiding or weakening, and US Sailing looks forward to welcoming Para Sailors to the Allianz Sailing World Championships for the first time ever this year.
US Sailing will continue to advocate for and support disabled sailors through many different agendas, including inclusion in the Paralympics for 2032 in Brisbane."