Chris Bishop to Attend 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris

“I am deeply honored to have been invited to present the medals for the Men’s S4 200m Freestyle event on the evening of 3 September,” Mr. Bishop added.

Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop is set to make history as the first New Zealand Sport & Recreation Minister to attend the Paralympic Games, traveling to Paris to support the New Zealand Paralympic Team during the 2024 event.

“The Paralympic Games are the third-largest sporting event in the world, drawing massive global audiences. New Zealand boasts a proud tradition of Paralympic success, with icons like Dame Sophie Pascoe and Peter Martin MNZM inspiring us with their remarkable achievements in previous Games,” said Mr. Bishop.

New Zealand’s 2024 Paralympic Team will comprise 25 athletes competing in eight sports: Para athletics, Para badminton, Para canoe/va’a, Para cycling, Para equestrian, Para swimming, Shooting Para sport, and Para table tennis. The athletes will be supported by a team of about 40 staff members.

Mr. Bishop highlighted the pride felt by New Zealanders as the team, led by flagbearers Cameron Leslie MNZM and Anna Grimaldi MNZM, participated in the opening ceremony, marching along the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

“A few weeks ago in Auckland, I had the privilege of attending the team’s official farewell event. It was a pleasure to meet many of our Paralympians and engage with their families, who play such crucial roles in helping their loved ones reach the Paralympics start line,” Mr. Bishop said.

While in Paris, Mr. Bishop plans to cheer on New Zealand’s athletes as they strive for gold and host an event to honor the families and friends who have supported the athletes throughout their journey.

In addition to supporting the team, Mr. Bishop will engage in a series of diplomatic meetings, including discussions with officials from the OECD and the Canadian Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, who is also a former Paralympian.

“I am deeply honored to have been invited to present the medals for the Men’s S4 200m Freestyle event on the evening of 3 September,” Mr. Bishop added.

The Minister’s visit to Paris is scheduled from Monday, 2 September, to Thursday, 5 September.