The origins of the Paralympic Games go back to 1944 when a spinal injuries centre was opened for former servicemen at Stoke Mandeville hospital in England, focussing on sport as a means of treating and rehabilitating people with a disability. In 1948 the Stoke Mandeville Games for athletes with a disability began on the same day as the Opening Ceremony of the Games of the XIV Olympiad in London. From this the Paralympic Movement was born.

The first Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960 when 400 athletes from 23 countries competed in eight sports. This year's Paralympics in Athens expects 4000 athletes from over 140 countries who will be competing in 19 sports.

The Vision of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is "To Enable Paralympic Athletes to Achieve Sporting Excellence and Inspire and Excite the World."

This will be the first time 2K Plus has covered the Paralympics. Our team of six radio reporters and journalists includes three who themselves have disabilities. With reference to the IPC's vision, our aim is to produce material that will inspire radio listeners around the world. Many paralympians have inspirational stories to share, including those who have an active faith in Jesus Christ.

We plan to serve up to 300 radio stations with news, comment and interviews in English only.

Andy Atkinson: Andy is based in Leeds, England. In 2003 he won the Yorkshire Area Volunteer of the Year award for his work with the Kidz Klub initiative for children in some of Leeds' most deprived areas. He has been active in several sports for people with disabilities and is undergoing radio training to prepare him for his role in Athens.

Tasha Books: Tasha is a journalist based in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. She has written for the Albuquerque Journal and is currently working with a local Christian radio station. Her interests include horse riding, performing arts and photography.

Mike Flynn: Team leader and veteran of 2K Plus reporting assignments at All Africa Games (Harare 1995, Abuja 2003), Olympics (Barcelona 1992, Sydney 2000) and Commonwealth Games (Manchester 2002). Mike is based in Leeds, England and works for the Royal Mail. Formerly he was a producer with Radio Worldwide in London and Leeds.

Rich Hallstrom: Rich is a freelance sports reporter based in Seattle, USA. He has over ten years reporting and commentating experience including two years as Sports Director for KGHO Radio. He is also Director of LIFE Ministries, the disability outreach of Antioch Bible Church, Seattle.

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Last Updated: May 21 2004 12:19:01.