BSG, the new co-title sponsor of the BSG Energade Triathlon Series, has embarked on an initiative very close to its heart - encouraging more disabled athletes to participate. BSG has partnered with Hein Wagner, founder of Visiontree, and motivational speaker. Wagner, born blind, lists among his many achievements breaking the World Blind Land Speed Record, being a member of the team that won the first ever Blind Cricket World Cup and being the first blind person in the world to cycle solo over a distance of 39km.
BSG believes that the triathlon is a great opportunity to bring people together and an excellent platform to encourage more athletes with disabilities to participate.
Greg Reis, CEO of BSG, says: “Social responsibility is a cause that is very close to our hearts. We believe that sport is an effective tool to bridge boundaries and social divides. Our sponsorship of the Tri-series is an ideal way to partner teams from varying physical and socio-economic backgrounds who would, under normal circumstances, not have had the opportunity to interact.”
Wagner, excited to be participating in the event to be held in the Western Cape, says BSG went the extra mile to make the event accessible to him as a blind athlete. He adds: “What excites me even more is BSG's willingness and commitment to invite more persons with disabilities to participate in next year's series.” Wagner believes staying fit is key to living a balanced life and achieving one's goals. He cheerfully says: “If you are fit, you will achieve your goals in half the time, as you will have the energy to do so!”
The strategic partnership with Wagner is one which BSG will continue to develop over the next four years of their co-title sponsorship and use to broaden the type of entrants entering the Tri-series.
In addition to this initiative, BSG has also approached various schools in an attempt to partner affluent schools with schools from disadvantaged communities. BSG will continue to look for more ways in which to make the Tri-series more accessible to those who may not previously have had the opportunity to participate.
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