Soprano Guleghina New IPC Honorary Board Member

Bonn, Germany - During a visit of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Headquarters in Bonn, Germany, one of the worlds' most famous sopranos, Maria Guleghina, has officially confirmed her acceptance to become a member of the IPC Honorary Board. She met with IPC President Sir Philip Craven and further discussed her involvement in the Paralympic Movement.

Said Ms. Guleghina: "My support to the Paralympic Movement is rooted in my personal experience. At my birth, the doctors told my mother that I would have to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair. Thanks to my mother and her determination, this prediction did not come true. She also encouraged me to practice sports and take ballet lessons, both of which helped to build the confidence and stamina needed to be an opera singer. This determination, confidence and stamina are, I believe, key ingredients for the success of Paralympians."

"I would be very happy if my engagement for the IPC could help Paralympic athletes achieve their dreams and realize their goal of never giving up. It is a great honour and responsibility to be allowed to support the Mission and Vision of the IPC," she added.

The main purpose of the IPC Honorary Board is to allow leaders of society an opportunity to support the vision of the Paralympic Movement and to strive to maintain the issue of sport for persons with a disability high on the agenda of the global community. Honorary Board Members assist the IPC in creating opportunities for raising awareness and funding, through the Member's network of contacts and sphere of influence. Through their efforts to help the IPC to achieve the above goals, Honorary Board Members will allow the mission and vision of the IPC to be fulfilled, thus improving the quality of life of persons with a disability around the world.

"With Maria Guleghina joining the IPC Honorary Board, the Paralympic Movement is showing its wider reach throughout society where sports and culture truly come together. It is a great honour for the IPC to welcome Ms. Guleghina to our family," added Sir Philip.

Other members of the IPC Honorary Board are HRH Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, HRH Grand Duchess of Luxemburg Maria Teresa, HSH Prince Albert of Monaco and HRH Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden.