Asean Para Games athletes honoured in Istana reception by President Tony Tan

President Tony Tan (back, fourth from right) with the Singapore Para games Boccia team members. ST PHOTO: DESMOND FOO
President Tony Tan Keng Yam (centre) with his wife, Mrs Mary Tan and Singapore's national para-swimmers on Dec 7, 2015. PHOTO: SPORT SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE - Singapore's para-athletes who competed at the Asean Para Games (APG) last month, as well as those at last July's Special Olympics World Summer Games, were honoured in an appreciation reception at the Istana on Saturday afternoon, hosted by President Tony Tan Keng Yam.

Team Singapore delivered a record 24 golds, 17 silvers and 22 bronzes at the APG, which the Republic hosted for the first time. Para-swimmer Yip Pin Xiu also clocked a new 50m backstroke S2 world record during the Games.

Meanwhile, the Special Olympics participants clinched 12 golds, 11 silvers and nine bronzes in July.

Dr Tan praised the athletes for displaying fighting spirit and graciousness throughout both competitions. He added: "The Games also highlight the need for inclusiveness in our society. We have to ensure that no Singaporean is left behind, especially in a society as diverse as ours. Every individual, regardless of ability, is capable of being extraordinary."

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Grace Fu added: "Not only have they achieved personal bests, they have also collectively broken our medal records. Their hard work, determination and fighting spirit have impressed the nation and inspired many."

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