Norwegian swimmer Sarah Louise Rung has hit some highs in the last few years as a competitive swimmer. Rung has set eight world records, three gold medals and starting September 1, she is participating in the games in London .

By becoming an Athlete Ambassador with Right To Play, Sarah is an incredible inspiration to the children in our programs facing similar obstacles. 

Swimming was, and is, a huge part in Sarah’s life. She was an able-bodied swimmer until four years ago when she was paralyzed from the waist down due to complications from a back surgery. Even after this critical event, Sarah pushed through and did not let that stop her from competing and setting world records.

Inclusion is a fundamental part of Right To Play’s mission in using sport for development. Children with physical and mental challenges may be stigmatized in their community, which can create further obstacles in their development.  Right To Play actively encourages groups to include children with disabilities in games, sports and play and the results are tremendous. The simple act of playing a game or participating in a sport enables independence and empowerment.

Sarah said it best that by becoming an athlete ambassador, she can help build upon the work Right To Play is doing to achieve more inclusion for children with disabilities:

“All children need play and physical activity, and Right To Play has focused on including all children. They allow kids to engage in sport and play, and experience a sense of empowerment, respect for themselves and belonging with others. This, I am very happy to help with.”

The successes Sarah and other athletes like her have achieved demonstrate to children across the world that you can succeed no matter your obstacles. Looking up to an athlete like Sarah helps children understand they aren’t alone and they can reach their goals! Maybe even win a gold medal of their own!