SINGAPORE - President Tony Tan Keng Yam took to his Facebook page to wish Singapore's para-athletes well as they head into the Paralympic Games on Wednesday (Sept 7).

The Games begin in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on the same day.

In his note, he called them an inspiration and told them that they had the nation's full support.

He wrote: "Sports is about ability, not disability. The Games epitomises this by empowering our Paralympians to achieve sporting excellence and inspire the world. I am particularly proud of our Team Singapore athletes for exemplifying the Paralympic values of courage, determination, inspiration and equality in preparing for the Games.

"They have shown tremendous grit, perseverance and discipline in overcoming various physical disabilities to hone their skills in their chosen sport, in order to perform at the highest level. An inspiration to all of us indeed!"

"I met some of our Paralympians during training in June this year. Para-swimmers Theresa Goh and Yip Pin Xiu, para-sailor Jovin Tan and para-equestrian Gemma Rose Foo shared with me their aspirations to do their best at the Games and better their personal records. I wish them, as well as the rest of Team Singapore Paralympians, all the best. Singapore and all Singaporeans are rooting for you."

Singapore has sent 13 athletes to Rio. They will compete in six sports - archery, athletics, boccia, equestrian, sailing and swimming.

More stories on the Paralympics and Team Singapore's Paralympians here.