Laureus project member wins IPC Athletics World Championships Gold

July 24, 2013

Two years ago he was celebrating his graduation from secondary school where he studied farming.

Now, Hermas Muvunyi of Rwanda is celebrating winning gold in the 800 metres T46 final at the IPC Athletics World Championships.

Muvunyi registered a personal best time of 1:54:06 on his way to victory, beating Algeria’s Samir Nouioua who won silver in a time of 1:55:43 and Brazilian Alex Pires whom took bronze in 1:56:45.

As one of only two Rwandan athletes to travel to the Championships in Lyon, France, the hopes and expectations placed on Hermas were huge. But following a disappointing Olympics last year, he now finally reaches the heights he and his fans have dreamed of for years.

But Hermas’ victory is also a source of great pride for Laureus.

The athlete is one of hundreds of young disabled Rwandans who have benefitted from the work of the Laureus-supported Development of Sports and Rights for People with Disabilities (DSRPD) project.

It is estimated that there are over 300,000 people with disabilities in Rwanda. Many thousands are amputees having suffered from years of war. This project gives around 300 young people with disabilities the opportunity to access sport and recreational activities while raising awareness of the rights of people with disabilities.

And in order to bridge the gap between the disabled and non-disabled Rwandans, the project also opens where possible to all people to learn about each other through sport.

The project has a great role model in Hermas and Laureus looks forward to him emulating his hero David Rudisha and fulfilling his dream of setting, and breaking, some world records.

Well done, Hermas.