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Breathtaking scenery and rich history
The U.S. Virgin Islands, nestled in the Caribbean, have a fascinating history shaped by a mix of cultures. Originally home to Indigenous peoples, the islands were claimed by Christopher Columbus during his 1493 voyage. Over the centuries, they were passed between various European powers like Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Britain, each leaving their own cultural and architectural touches. In 1917, the U.S. bought the islands from Denmark for $25 million, mainly for strategic reasons during World War I.
Since then, the islands have grown into a vibrant mix of African, Hispanic, European, and Caribbean influences, reflected in everything from their festivals and music to their food.
Today, the U.S. Virgin Islands are known for their breathtaking scenery and rich history, drawing visitors from all over the globe.
History of the Paralympic Movement
​​The Paralympic movement began in the aftermath of World War II, when German neurologist Sir Ludwig Guttmann was seeking a way to help his paraplegic patients. He organised the first Stoke Mandeville Games in England in 1948, which focused on wheelchair archery, to promote the rehabilitation of injured soldiers through sport. This event laid the groundwork for what would become the Paralympic Games.
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1952
First International Stoke Mandeville Games
The first international competition was held in 1952, with athletes from the Netherlands joining British participants. This marked the beginning of the Games’ expansion into an international event.
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1960
Rome Paralympic Games
The ninth International Stoke Mandeville Games, considered as the first Paralympic Games, were held in Rome, Italy. This was the first time that athletes from multiple countries competed in an organized multi-sport event. 400 athletes from 23 countries participated, marking a major milestone in the international recognition of the Paralympics.
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1988
Seoul Paralympic Games
The Seoul Paralympics marked a major turning point in the history of the movement, It was the first time the Paralympic Games were hosted in the same city as the Summer Olympics, solidifying the global stature and credibility of the event.
22 September 1989
The International Paralympic Committee is founded.
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2000
Sydney Paralympic Games
Often considered a landmark moment in the history of the Paralympics. The Games were widely praised for their organization, and a noticeable increase in media coverage and public support. Over 4,000 athletes from 123 countries participated, and the Games were watched by millions worldwide.
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2012
London Paralympic Games
The London Games marked a record-breaking year for the Paralympic movement, with increased media coverage, higher attendance at events, and unprecedented levels of sponsorship. The Games’ success contributed significantly to changing global perceptions about disability and inclusion.
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2024
Paris Paralympic Games
Once again a significant milestone as the Paralympics continue to grow in stature, with an emphasis on increasing visibility, access, and inclusivity for athletes of all abilities. With over 4400 athletes from 160 countries competing in 22 sports, these games also featured a record number of female athletes, with 1,983 competing.
Our NPC History
The Virgin Islands NPC was formed in 2012 when a para equestrian, Lee Frawley, qualified for the London 2012 Paralympics. This was a momentous moment for the Virgin Islands when the USVI flag was paraded in the opening ceremony for the first time in Paralympic history!
The Virgin Islands have had a representative at each subsequent Paralympics: in Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 (2021) and recently in Paris 2024.
Now that the Virgin Islands are firmly on the Paralympic map, our ambition is to maintain this presence in para competition, by growing our team to include a wider range of sports for future editions of the Games.
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Virgin Islands NPC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organisation under Federal Law in the United States. Donors’ contributions are tax deductible under the IRS.
