The establishment of the foundation comes as figures indicated that only two per cent of people with an impairment in Croatia are engaging in sport.

However, the Croatian Paralympic Committee is hopeful it can get more disabled people involved in sport following its promising performance at the London 2012 Paralympics where the nations athletes claimed two silver and three bronze medals.

The Paralympian Foundation will look to raise funds and resources to support sports for people with an impairment and to give individuals the chance to actively support the Paralympic Movement.

"I am proud of our athletes," said Croatian Paralympic Committee President Ratko Kovačić.

"Every day they push their own boundaries and prove to be the real athletes.

"The Paralympian Foundation will provide the opportunity for every individual to become a part of their incredible success.

"With every donation they will support their courage, determination, inspiration and equality."


Board members of the Foundation include Paralympic swimmers Ana Sršen and Mihovil Španja  (pictured top, second left) and shot-putter Darko Kralj.

Kralj took a silver medal at London 2012 in the men's shot put F42-44, while Španja claimed bronze in the men's 100 metres backstroke S7.

The launch event of the Foundation in Zagreb was supported by Allianz and Croatian Telecom, and attended by representatives of the Croatian Government and leading Croatian businesses.

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