Funding secures Paralympian support

Tuesday 25 June 2019

Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management has brought over a wheelchair racer and Paralympic athlete for a five-a-side basketball tournament as part of its #cando staff challenge.

Richard Chiassaro led the wheelchair basketball teach-in tournament and penalty shootout for the staff, family, and friends of the firm.

Mr Chiassaro is a top-ranking Paralympic athlete in wheelchair racing competing mainly in sprint and middle-distance events. Amongst the many accolades he has won, his biggest achievement in sport is getting selected for the Rio Games in 2016. Prior to discovering wheelchair racing, he played wheelchair basketball. Now, when he is not training for races, Mr Chiassaro coaches wheelchair racing and basketball to disabled children and adults along with wounded veterans.

Pictured above and top: The #cando basketball challenge was held at St Sampson's High. 

The #cando challenge was designed to inspire staff and clients, and the CSR initiative has seen people complete a number of activities already. 

“#cando has been so successful in helping us consistently promote and support the benefits of an active lifestyle. Our partnership with TeamedUp strengthens our support to the community and inspires our staff. We truly believe that everyone #cando whatever they set their mind to. Richard and his story reflect this message perfectly; his determination as he overcame injuries, among other challenges, and how he has used his experiences to help those he coaches,” commented Chris Colclough, Head of Wealth Management, Guernsey.

Ten specialised wheelchairs were sourced from the UK so that everyone participating could take a turn on the court, including Community Rugby Coach, Callum Gladstone and other members of the different sporting communities in Guernsey including the local basketball club.