SVG pitching for place in Paralympics 2016 in Rio

Once things go according to plan, St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) could be represented for the first time at the Paralympics 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.{{more}}

Working feverishly to make this a reality is the board of directors of the local Paralympics committee, which comprises Rudi Daniel, Earl Paynter, Shirlon Jacobs and Ayana Baisden.

Spokesperson of the board Rudi Daniel told SEARCHLIGHT that entering the Rio Games, which are set for August 31 to September 21, was one of their major mandates since gaining full membership of the International Paralympics Committee at its General Assembly last November.

Daniel revealed that coaching sessions in bocce, athletics and swimming from 2014, were part of mapping out the course for St Vincent and the Grenadines representation.

“We have two wild cards: one in swimming and the other in athletics and we are very hopeful that we will be represented in Rio,” Daniel projected.

He noted that swimmer Jason Williams of Bequia, who will be accompanied by Helen Ashton, is set to journey to Cuba soon, to get advanced training with Rio in sight.

Daniel said that several partnerships are firming up to get the local Paralympics organization on a stronger footing.

Daniel acknowledged working closely with the New St Vincent and the Grenadines Association and Friends of London and the Red Rose Club of England.

Part of the forging relationship has so far resulted in the former donating 500 pounds sterling to the efforts of the local board.

He also announced Toyota as the local sponsor, as of 2017.

Daniel said that despite already having potential donors, others are welcome to make the historic trip to Brazil later this year possible.