The
MMSA raises funds for Masonic and other charities through
the promotion of sporting and social events. Over £200,000
has been donated to various deserving causes. The Association has
been a sponsor of the British Wheelchair Sports Foundation (now
Wheelpower) at the last 5 Paralympic
Games. This includes Beijing 2008 for which the Association contributed
£12,500 to support training and subsistence of our wheelchair
athletes who have won so many medals previously. The British team
was second in the overall medal tally at Athens 2004. Second only
to China. The Paralympic movement began at Stoke Mandeville. are
proud to be associated with the Games which put the athletes first.
The enthusiasm and warm hospitality of the Paralympic Games creates
an environment for athletes to perform at their best and really
put disability sport on the map says Martin McElhatton, CEO, Wheelpower.
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H.R.H.
Prince of Wales
As Patron of the
British Wheelchair Sports Foundation, I have witnessed for myself
on many occasions the opportunities that wheelchair sport provides
for people with disabilities. There are tremendous benefits for
those who take part. For some it will be rehabilitation, for others
a marvellous way to keep fit and, for many, a chance to compete
in organised events from novice level to the Paralympic Games. For
Britain's elite wheelchair athletes the 2000 Sydney Paralympic Games
was the climax of four years training and dedication to their sport.
I can only wish them every possible success in their chosen sport.
The Sporting Chance Appeal, which I helped launch in March 1999,
will help fund the redevelopment of the Foundation's unique facilities
at Stoke Mandeville, offering a sporting chance to many thousands
of people. Through their sporting endeavours, those taking part
provide others who have disabilities with inspiration and positive
role models, encouraging young and newly disabled people to improve
their quality of life through sport. The work of the British Wheelchair
Sports Foundation is to be admired and supported, and I wish all
those involved every success in the future. |