Paralympics Ireland has launched the second instalment of their ‘More Than Sport’ campaign today, featuring London 2012 double gold medallist, Michael McKillop.
“As an experienced athlete it was great to be a part of this campaign with Paralympics Ireland. I feel very strongly about showcasing the talent we have here in this country" McKillop said speaking about the video.
“More than sport goes beyond winning gold medals and beyond the long hours of training and sacrifices. More than sport is bringing pride to our nation and showcasing what Ireland has to offer across the globe.
“Growing up with a physical disability was tough as it was visible to the public. I stood out. I was different to all the other kids,” he continued.
“Yes, I was picked on at times, but I didn't allow those words to affect the way I lived. I realized after a while that everybody is different and I should be proud to be who I am and own my disability.
"Today, I hold my head up high when I introduce myself as a Paralympic athlete. I am extremely proud to be competing at an elite level for my country."
Speaking about the launch of the campaign last month, CEO of Paralympics Ireland, Liam Harbison stated: “More Than Sport is a new awareness and fundraising initiative we’ve launched this year as we prepare for the Rio 2016 Games.
"Over the coming weeks and months we will be bringing you more, as we take you behind the scenes to meet these athletes, hear their stories and come behind them to support them all the way to Rio. It’s an extremely exciting and inspirational campaign.”
The More Than Sport campaign also saw the launch of a text drive which asks the public to text PARA to 50300.
The video comes as a second instalment of their campaign, with the first featuring a number of Paralympians ahead of the Rio Games.
You can see who is on the panel here.
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