Cyprus will be represented at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games with two athletes, swimmer Karolina Palendritou and track athlete Antonis Aresti. The games are taking place in Rio, Brazil between 7-18 September.

A press conference was held on Tuesday to present the National Paralympic Team to media and public.

Pelendritou will be accompanied by her coach Stylianos Kakavogiannis and Aresti by his coach Christos Constantinou.

Head of Mission is Aristides Evripides who is already in Rio. The Mission also consists of one doctor, a trainer-physiotherapist, the President of the Cyprus National Paralympic Committee as well as an official from the Cyprus Sports Organization (CSO).

President of the Cyprus National Paralympic Committee Andreas Kamarliggos told the media that the athletes, with their presence and participation in Rio Games, honour their country. He said that the athletes make great efforts in order to train and prepare for the Games.

He added that the aim is to have Cypriot athletes competing in all major European and global events and of course to secure Cyprus` presence in the Tokyo Paralympics.

Kamarliggos also said that the state contributes financially so that the athletes can participate, however more donors and sponsors are needed.

CSO President Kleanthis Georgiades said that the athletes who compete in the Paralympics demonstrate great tenacity and show the strength of their soul.

A total of 4,000 athletes from 170 countries will compete in Rio Paralympics