International Inspiration leaves a legacy in Azerbaijan
12 May 2010Sir Philip Craven, President of the International Paralympic Committee, has today seen firsthand the global legacy of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in a visit to Azerbaijan to see the impact of London 2012’s International Inspiration programme. Sir Philip was guest of honour in the Azeri capital, Baku, as the work of the initiative was marked at the International Inspiration legacy conference. The achievements of the programme have been acknowledged by the Azeri government who have committed to continuing its work.
International Inspiration is London 2012’s official international sports legacy programme. Using the power of high-quality physical education, sport and play, International Inspiration works to enrich the lives of 12 million children and young people of all abilities in 20 countries across the world, including Azerbaijan.
The three-year Azeri programme started in 2007 and has helped more than 150,000 children, with 40,000 now regularly joining sport and play activities. Twenty-one playgrounds have been renovated in targeted schools to create safe spaces for children to play, widening access to sport and play for thousands of children and young people.
IPC President, Sir Philip Craven, said: ‘It’s fantastic to see the impact that International Inspiration has made to so many lives in Azerbaijan. I am particularly impressed by the commitment to integrate all children into the programme including children with impairments. The fact that these children are accepted as full members of society through their participation in safe and fun sporting activities is how life should be.’
Seb Coe, Chair of the London 2012 Organising Committee, said: ‘I am very proud of the tremendous achievements of International Inspiration in Azerbaijan. In the three years since the programme was implemented, it has already made a real difference to the lives of children and young people in the country.
‘When we won the bid, we were clear about our aims – to use the power of the London 2012 Games to inspire young people around the world and leave a lasting legacy. I am thrilled to see that this is happening in Azerbaijan and that its government is committed to building on the fantastic work already achieved.’
Read the full media release
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