Steve Bate, piloted by Adam Duggleby, won two of Britain's 12 Para-cycling gold medals at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

British Cycling has launched a new scheme to identify potential Paralympians for Paris 2024 and beyond.

The "#Power2Paris" programme - which is launching virtually to begin with because of the coronavirus pandemic - is aimed at anyone who can compete across the various categories of impairment at the Paralympics regardless of whether or not they are currently a cyclist.

John Lenton, British Cycling’s Para-cycling pathway manager, identifies recruiting new riders as crucial to Britain's long-term success in the sport.

"The unique thing about Para-cycling is that riders don’t have to be lifelong cyclists to have the attributes to succeed," Lenton said.

"Whether someone’s impairment is acquired or congenital, there’s a chance that they are still exploring which sports could be right for them, or how to harness their athletic abilities. 

"There is a very good chance that a potential Para-cycling champion is not yet aware of the talent they might possess, so we would encourage anyone with an interest to sign up to the #Power2Paris initiative to explore the potential they may have."

Britain finished top of the Para-cycling medals table at each of the last three Paralympics and has more all-time gold medals than any other country.

For now, British Cycling wants any athlete believing they fit the criteria to sign up on its website. 

Once restrictions on movement and mass gatherings in place due to the pandemic have been lifted, British Cycling says it will hold assessment days to evaluate potential Paris 2024 Paralympians.