Para Sport Development

At Retina South Africa, we believe in the power of sport to change lives. Our Para Sport Development Programme creates inclusive opportunities for people living with visual impairments to take part in meaningful, supported physical activity.

Through adaptive sport, training support, and community engagement, we help individuals build confidence, strengthen wellbeing, and explore what they are capable of achieving.

We are working towards a future where disability is never a barrier to participation, belonging, or excellence in sport.

“The greatest barrier isn’t what you can or cannot see – it’s what you believe is possible.”

Taking part in sport and physical activity can support physical wellbeing, coordination, confidence, and social connection. For people living with visual impairments, inclusive sport also creates valuable opportunities for independence, achievement, and belonging.

Through our programme, we support:

• Children discovering sport for the first time
• Young athletes building confidence and independence
• Adults reconnecting with movement and community
• Para athletes representing South Africa on competitive stages

From a 12-year-old experiencing her first ride in a support buggy to athletes competing in international events, our community continues to show what is possible when barriers are removed.

Retina South Africa is proud to be driving inclusion in endurance sport through the Dis-Chem Ride for Sight para category.

In just a few years, participation has grown significantly as more athletes with visual impairments gain access to adaptive cycling opportunities and structured support.

Para Athlete Participation Growth

2023 – 4 para athletes
2024 – 35 para athletes
2025 – 49 para athletes
2026 – 60 para athletes

This growth reflects the increasing demand for inclusive sporting opportunities, as well as our commitment to creating accessible pathways for athletes who may not previously have had the opportunity to participate in competitive sport.

Our programme actively supports:

• Visually impaired athletes riding tandem bicycles with sighted pilots

Together, we are building one of the most inclusive cycling platforms in South Africa.

Participation in sport can have a meaningful impact for people living with vision loss. It can help to:

•  Build confidence and independence
•  Support physical and emotional wellbeing
•  Strengthen community connections
•  Demonstrate what true inclusion looks like

Behind every athlete is a story of growth, resilience, and possibility. Each new participant represents a step towards a more inclusive and accessible sporting landscape.

Retina South Africa is committed not only to expanding access to sport, but also to deepening understanding of its wider benefits.

Our Para Sport Development Programme is evolving with a research-informed approach, exploring how structured physical activity may support overall wellbeing for individuals living with visual impairments.

Working alongside medical professionals, sports scientists, and academic partners, we aim to better understand how adaptive sport may contribute to:

• Improved cardiovascular health and physical fitness
• Enhanced coordination and spatial awareness
• Greater independence and mobility
• Improved emotional wellbeing and resilience
• Stronger social connection and confidence

You don’t need to sponsor an individual athlete to make a meaningful difference. Your support helps us create opportunities across our entire para sport programme.

Through your contribution, we can provide:

• Training opportunities
• Adaptive equipment
• Athlete development programmes
• Access to inclusive sporting events
• Ongoing research into the benefits of sport

Every contribution helps remove barriers and create opportunities for people to move, connect, and thrive.

Our events create inclusive opportunities for participation while raising vital funds to support our programmes.

Our flagship cycling event includes a dedicated para category enabling athletes with visual impairments to compete using tandem bicycles and support buggies.

While Retina South Africa’s core programme focuses on visual impairment, the Ride for Sight event includes a broader para category, welcoming athletes with both visual and physical impairments as part of its inclusive platform.

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Visually impaired golfers paired with sighted guides demonstrating adaptive sport while corporate teams support Retina SA’s programmes.

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An inclusive lawn bowls programme supporting adaptive techniques and national participation.

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In 2025, South Africa’s first mixed para cycling team of 12 athletes competed in the 202 km endurance challenge.

• Programme Naming Rights
• Vehicle and Equipment Sponsorship
• Athlete Development Sponsorship
• Research Sponsorship

• Employee volunteer opportunities as guides
• Inclusive team‑building sporting events
• Brand visibility through Retina SA platforms

You can become part of the movement.

• Sighted guides and cycling pilots
• Event volunteers
• Coaching and sports science support
• Medical and rehabilitation expertise

Follow our journey and see the impact of inclusive sport in action

Ride for Sight
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Contact

Email: events@retinasa.org.za

Together, we are not just developing athletes – we are creating confidence, community, and opportunity.

Support Retina South Africa’s Para Sport Development Programme today.