New Zealand’s Winter Paralympian Adam Hall has been given “Cool dude” status by the main stream media, after his dramatic gold medal performance, in the men’s standing slalom. Adam’s medal winning downhill run was nothing short of courageous as he overcame a fall two-thirds of the way down the course.

Cerebral Palsy Society member Mike Henry is pleased with this positive portrayal, but it irks him that athletes with Adam’s ability continue to be deprived of regular recognition and significant funding.

“One month ago, no kiwi was placed higher than 11th at the equivalent able bodied event. But as always, everyone including government and the sports minister of New Zealand will continue to put more money and time behind the Olympics, at the expense of the Paralympics,” states Mike.

“Why is this?” queries Mike.

“Disabled people work harder, longer, and spend more time trying to obtain sponsors but as we know, most everyday people just don't care. In contrast an able boded athlete can go around, flash his or her name, and doors and funding just seems to open up. Now I’m able bodied but all my life I always supported Paralympians more than Olympians, as history shows Paralympians do sooooo much better,” continues Mike.

Mike has offered to investigate this in-balance in funding in his own time and he hopes his efforts will make life, in terms of dollars, easier for all present and future Paralympians.

“If anyone has any ideas why Government supports able bodied athletes more than Paralympians I would be interested to hear,” concludes Mike.

Mike raises some very good points here and feedback on this debate would be greatly appreciated.

Ross Flood rflood@cpsociety.org.nz