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Message from the President: Irish Blind Sports Christmas Appeal 2008

November 2008

Jason Smyth celebrates double gold after his world record performance in the T13 category 200m at the Paralympics

Jason Smyth celebrates double gold after his world record performance in the T13 category 200m at the Paralympics (photo courtesy: Sportsfile)

You know of my deep interest and love of all sports well, I am proud to say that nothing gives me greater pleasure these days than campaigning on behalf of Irish Blind Sports in their hour of need.

Our mission is to enable all blind and visually impaired people in Ireland to take part in a wide range of sporting activities, from Bowling to Cycling, Swimming to Walking, and many, many more.

Naturally, we were delighted with Jason Smyth's exploits in September in Beijing 2008, where he won both 100m and 200m, breaking the world record in each event.

Jason is an inspiration to other young blind people around the country, who do not yet possess his focus, determination and sheer will to win. However, in Irish Blind Sports, our primary concern is to increase participation. It is our challenge to inform blind people of the immense benefits to be derived from regular physical activity - and to enable them to participate in sports in their locality.

However, it is a constant struggle to match our ambitious objectives with the funding required to deliver our services - as a result, we are seeking your support. Perhaps you might consider including IBS on the list of charities you already support or, at Christmas this year or next year, suggest to your family and friends that they would consider IBS when seeking a worthy charity to help. Believe me, any donation whatsoever, is most welcome.

Diane, at 01 2020118 will be only too happy to provide any further details required.

Hoping you are keeping well.

Kind regards

Fred Cogley
President
Irish Blind Sports 

Irish Sports Council Paralympic Council of Ireland National Council for the Blind in Ireland International Blind Sport Federation