PARALYMPIC AND PARA SPORTS NEWS

A view of the skyline of Toronto featuring tall buildings and the CN Tower.

The fifth edition of the Games will be the biggest yet but how has the Paralympic Movement developed in recent years in the Americas?

Two men in a swimming pool, after a race

After winning silver in the event at July’s Worlds, Canadian superstar Benoit Huot is confident he can still challenge for medals and will do so at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games.

Chui Yee Yu - London 2012

The two federations signed a Collaboration Agreement, which is promising for the growth of wheelchair fencing.

IPC Top moment 44 Wheelchair Dance Sport – Continents Cup

Changes made to athlete eligibility at major Championships and rules and judging criteria for freestyle/showdance events.

Group of young girls in Rio 2016 shirts

Initiative to promote Olympic, Paralympic sports expected to reach seven million Brazilian kids and be available in English and Spanish.

Powerlifting at the Parapans

Brazil led the medals table in 2011, but the competition is far more open in 2015.

Chuck Aoki

On home territory, Canada, the world’s second best side will be aiming to win gold, but the USA will have something to say about that.

Katie Holloway

Brazil’s men and the USA’s women will start as favourites for gold in the sitting volleyball competition.

Woman sitting on a bench, preparing for her competition

The Parapan American powerlifting gold medallist is on the way back from injury hoping to top the podium once again between 7-15 August.

Brent Lakatos at the 2013 IPC Athletics World Championships Lyon

The Canadian world champion wheelchair sprinter believes the upcoming Parapan American Games can deliver a “London 2012 legacy” for his home country.