TT Kipps carries Paralympic torch

The 14-year-old from Maracas St Joseph and two other young people involved in the programme got to meet International Inspiration Ambassador Oscar Pistorius.

“I can’t explain what it was like to run with the torch! I was ecstatic, with everyone waving and cheering! It was amazing to meet Oscar Pistorius. Like me, he has a disability to his legs, but he is an amazing athlete and it makes me think that I can be successful and that it’s good for me to keep trying new sports. He is someone who has gone out there and done it. At home in Trinidad, doing sports is very important and I like being part of that with International Inspiration,” said Kipps.

The South African gold medallist and world record holder, praised them for reflecting the Paralympic Values of courage, determination, inspiration and equality.

“As an Ambassador for International Inspiration it is fantastic to see how the programme has touched these young people’s lives, bringing them closer together and encouraging them to look beyond personal challenges. It’s a fabulous legacy for the London 2012 Games and one I am proud to represent”. One Torchbearer was selected from Tanzania, TT and the UK amongst nominations sent from the UK and the 20 countries which are part of the programme. Each International Inspiration Torchbearer was nominated and selected either for their dedication and commitment to inspiring children and young people in their communities through the power of sport or for the personal challenges they have overcome in their lives.

Anthony was nominated by Lucia Nero-Giles because of his consistent volunteer work and achievements on International Inspiration and in other spheres of school life. He is a popular young leader and role model in his school where he is involved in planning and delivering sport events, swimming, music and more recently paralympic sport.

The 2011 Youth of the year is also involved in the school Student Council and has copped awards from the Disability Affairs Unit for his efforts in social work. Additionally he is a Youth Ambassador and placed third in the CNMG individual of the year 2011.

International Inspiration is bringing to life the promise made by the London 2012 bid team where they pledged to reach young people all around the world and connect them to the inspirational power of the Games so they are inspired to choose sport.

The programme is delivered around the world by a unique partnership of organisations including the British Council, UNICEF UK and UK Sport.

International Inspiration is enriching the lives of more than 12 million children in 20 countries around the world through high-quality physical education, sport and play.