Meet the ParalympicsGB Para Canoe Team for Paris 2024

Making their Paralympic debuts in Paris, two-time world champion Jack Eyers and former shot put athlete Ed Clifton are set to compete in the VL3 and VL2 categories respectively, as they join an impressive contingent of nine athletes representing ParalympicsGB at the much-anticipated 2024 Games.

Eyers expressed his overwhelming excitement, stating, “This is a life-long dream of mine. Making it to Paris and getting to call myself a Paralympian means everything to me. I’ve worked incredibly hard the last three years to earn my place on the team, and I can’t wait to get out to Paris and showcase what I can do on the biggest stage.”

Welcoming a Legacy of Excellence

The team represents a remarkable tapestry of talent, showcasing both seasoned athletes and fresh faces. Penny Briscoe, Chef de Mission at ParalympicsGB, shared her pride in the squad’s depth, remarking, “The strength in depth of this Para canoe squad is testament to the hard work and dedication that every athlete has shown in the build-up to Paris 2024. I’m absolutely delighted to welcome all nine athletes and look forward to seeing what the squad can achieve on the water in Paris later this summer.”

This sentiment of collective effort is echoed by Chris Furber, Performance Director for Para canoe. “I’m thrilled and honoured to be leading such a strong Para canoe team to Paris 2024 this summer,” he said. “All nine athletes have performed exceptionally well to make this world-leading team for ParalympicsGB.”

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Furber emphasised the blend of experience and new talent, highlighting Jeanette Chippington, who is set to compete in her eighth Paralympic Games, alongside Eyers and Clifton, who are embarking on their debut journeys. “There are world medallists within our own team who won’t be with us in Paris, which only highlights our strength in depth as a nation in this sport, and the highly competitive environment that the Paralympics have become.”

Historic Achievements

The depth of talent within the squad reflects a legacy of success. At the Tokyo 2020 Games, ParalympicsGB achieved a historic milestone, clinching medals across a record-breaking 18 different sports – the highest number of any nation in Paralympic history. Finishing second on the medal table, the team secured a impressive 124 medals overall, including 41 gold, 38 silver, and 45 bronze.

The upcoming Paris Games promise to uphold this tradition of excellence, with expectations running high. Furber noted, “We consistently topped the World Championship medal table, and that’s a testament to our athletes, but also our staff, who work tirelessly to ensure we head into every competition in a strong position and best prepared.”

Preparing for Paris

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Looking ahead, Furber reaffirmed the team’s commitment to preparation: “Our focus is now on the next few months in the build-up to an exciting Games, and the entire team will work really hard to ensure we are ready to perform this summer.” A talented squad awaits, set to inspire and engage the nation as they take to the water.

The Paralympic spirit is not merely about competition; it’s a celebration of resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of dreams against all odds. Athletes like Eyers and Clifton embody this ethos, showcasing that every stroke in the water represents not just personal triumph, but a powerful narrative of possibility.

Meet the Para Canoe Team

The roster of athletes representing ParalympicsGB showcases an exhilarating blend of skill and determination:

• Emma Wiggs MBE – VL2 & KL2
• Charlotte Henshaw MBE – KL2 & VL3
• Laura Sugar MBE – KL3
• Jeanette Chippington OBE – KL1 & VL2
• Hope Gordon – VL3 & KL3
• Dave Phillipson – KL2
• Ed Clifton – VL2
• Jack Eyers – VL3
• Rob Oliver – KL3

As the countdown to Paris intensifies, all eyes will be on this remarkable group of athletes. The passion, tenacity, and heart of these competitors will undoubtedly light the pathway to what promises to be an unforgettable Paralympic spectacle. With the roar of the crowd and the spirit of competition igniting the atmosphere, the stage is set for history to be written once again, showcasing the sheer talent and indomitable will of these inspiring athletes.

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