Grant towards 1996 Atlanta Paralympics

May 25, 1996

Western Australia's paralympians have been given a $30,000 helping hand today with the announcement of a State Government grant for the 1996 Atlanta Games team.

"WA will have 18 athletes competing in the Atlanta Games and it is important they have undergone the best preparation possible," Sport and Recreation Minister Norman Moore said today.

"We have competitors in track and field, swimming, basketball and cycling."

Mr Moore said the $30,000 grant would assist athletes with the intensive pre-Olympic training.

"Our team comprises 10 world record holders and the present and past paralympians of the year," he said.

"Despite all this experience, it is still imperative that the athletes be able to prepare and practise for the upcoming games.

"The Paralympics is an elite, high pressure competition that is the pinnacle of an athlete's career and the competitors deserve our support in achieving the goals of representing Australia."

The Paralympic Games will be staged two weeks after the Atlanta Olympic Games, from August 15-25. More than 3,500 athletes from 120 countries are expected to compete. The Australian contingent consists of 162 competitors.

"WA paralympians have enjoyed tremendous success in the past and I am confident that this team will return with a swag of medals to add to their collection," Mr Moore said.

Media contact: Anabel Gomez 222 9595