International Inspiration project makes a big impression on Paralympic swimmer
International Inspiration project makes a big impression on Paralympic swimmer
Four-time gold medal-winning Paralympic swimmer Marc Woods has visited Malaysia to see first-hand the tremendous work that the London 2012 International Inspiration programme is doing for children across the globe.
Paralympian Marc Woods speaks during his visit to Malaysia
Over the course of four days, Woods visited a number of projects designed to inspire young people to choose sport, as part of the pledge made by Seb Coe in 2005 when London won the right to host the Games. He was also present as a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the UK and Malaysia to officially launch the programme in the country.
During his visit, the Paralympian – who has won a total of 12 Paralympic medals during his career – visited a festival featuring local children demonstrate a range of sports, and met young people involved in the International Inspiration programme.
Woods said: ‘I have really enjoyed meeting so many young people and seeing the tremendous work that International Inspiration is doing in Malaysia. It is particularly exciting for me to understand how the programme is opening doors for children with a disability in Malaysia and guiding teachers and coaches in making PE lessons more accessible and inclusive for all children.’
Seb Coe, Chair of the London 2012 Organising Committee, said: ‘I was lucky enough to see for myself the difference International Inspiration is making to children and young people’s lives when I went to India last year to see some projects. I’m thrilled that Marc Woods has had the same opportunity in Malaysia. Our vision is to reach young people around the world and connect them to the inspirational power of the Games and International Inspiration is helping us achieve this.’
The International Inspiration programme aims to use the power of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to enrich the lives of young people across the world by offering them opportunities to participate in sport. As the official international legacy programme for London 2012, it has already reached almost seven million children in 15 countries across the world.
