Calling all Canadians to join Canada's Paralympic Super Athletes in Passing the Torch

Canadian Paralympic Committee launches Pass the Torch 2012 Fundraising Campaign to provide opportunities to the next wave of Super Athletes

LONDON, UK, Aug. 29, 2012 /CNW/ - On the eve of the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, Canadian "Super Athletes" are gearing up to compete against the World's best from August 29 to September 9. The outcome will likely inspire the nation!

For the Canadian Paralympic Committee, these next 10 days will be the catalyst for sparking the dream within the next wave of champions.

"The Paralympic Games are a unique platform to show the years of hard work, dedication and commitment that each of our athletes have invested in preparing for this moment," said Henry Storgaard, CEO and Secretary General for the Canadian Paralympic Committee. "Many of our current Paralympic champions were inspired to get involved in parasport after witnessing one of those magical moments achieved by a Paralympian."

By contributing to the Pass the Torch fundraising campaign, Canadians can play a great part in providing young Canadians with a disability with the opportunity to take part in sport. A contribution of $20.12 can provide an environment for these young individuals with the proper equipment to pursue an athletic career.

"Every child in Canada has the right to participate in sport," adds Storgaard.

"We need the support of all Canadians to ensure that everyone has the same chance to participate in sport regardless of their ability," says Justin Karn, a Paralympic judo athlete. "Pick up the torch, support participants and athletes like me and help us strive to be the best!"

Join our Canadian Paralympic "Super Athletes" and give your support now to Pass the Torch to Canada's next generation of Paralympic athletes.

For more information, log on to www.passthetorch.ca

About the Canadian Paralympic Committee

The Canadian Paralympic Committee is a non-profit, private organization with 46 member sports organizations dedicated to strengthening the Paralympic movement. The Canadian Paralympic Committee's vision is to be the world's leading Paralympic nation. Its mission is to lead the development of a sustainable Paralympic sport system in Canada to enable athletes to reach the podium at the Paralympic Games. By supporting Canadian Paralympic athletes and promoting their success, the Canadian Paralympic Committee inspires all Canadians with a disability to get involved in sport through programs delivered by its member organizations.

Follow Your Team:
www.paralympic.ca/london2012
www.facebook.com/CDNParalympics
www.twitter.com/CDNParalympics #London2012 #GoCanadaGo
www.youtube.com/CDNParalympics

SOURCE: CANADIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE (CPC)

For further information:

Alison Korn
Press Chief
Canadian Paralympic Team
London : 07510 875 867
[e-mail]

Martin Richard
Executive Director, Communications & Marketing 
Canadian Paralympic Committee 
Cell. 613-725-4339
[e-mail]