In 2004, at the paralympic games in Athens, France ended 9^th among the nations and 6^th for the number of medals. So, as the Beijing Olympics approach, the hope of belonging to one of the eighteen French handisport teams (swimming, fencing, athletics, etc.) represents the second opportunity they await for many handicapped young people.

The Youth Department, a vital branch of the French Handisport Federation, has the mission of coordinating and structuring all sports practice projects for youths under 20 and to propose specific sports events (Jeux de l'avenir, Grand Prix National des Junes, etc.). In fact, the practice of a sports activity, in addition to the muscle development necessary for a proper balance, helps recover self-esteem when the view of one's diminished body tends to deteriorate. The FFH therefore has to meet a growing need for equipment specific to the sports practice of young handicapped persons: electric wheelchairs, basketball or athletics wheelchairs, miscellaneous equipment (bumpers, safety items, wheels, tyres, mudguards, cushions, safety belts, etc.).

Sports as a drive for integration

For the FFH, the current taste of handicapped youths for sports is also an opportunity to promote their social integration. In fact, while sports is a vector of motor, psychological and social development for everyone, it is especially so for handicapped youths. For them, the practice of a sports activity is often the privileged means to escape a sedentary and isolated life. And from the moment when they agree to train for the first time, for a demonstration or for a rally, the challenge to escape this solitude is largely won.

The 49,000 euros grant from the Veolia Environnement Foundation, which already backed the FFH last year, will serve to buy seven electric wheelchairs. A sterling initiative to encourage future champions.