SINGAPORE - The Singapore National Paralympic Council (SNPC) announced on Thursday (June 9) its contingent of seven para-athletes for Sept 7-18's Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The number will increase once representatives for para-sailing are finalised. Athletes from archery and athletics are also trying to qualify for the Games.

As of now, Singapore are represented in four sports - boccia, equestrian, swimming and sailing.

SNPC chairman Teo-Koh Sock Miang said: "Our athletes are training hard and looking forward to flying the Singapore flag high at the Games.

"We sincerely hope that all of Singapore will support and cheer our athletes on during the Games as they seek to achieve sporting excellence and bring honour to the nation."

The squad is spearheaded by world-record para-swimmer Yip Pin Xiu. Yip, who won a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, is also the flag bearer for Team Singapore at the Games.

The 24-year-old said: "To be chosen to carry my nation's flag is a great honour and I'm grateful for the support we have been given thus far.

"With less than three months to go, we are all excited and gearing to do our very best in Rio. We hope to see everyone rally behind Team Singapore as we compete and strive towards excellence."