Ciao and greetings from Italy!
What a way to finish, with Paralympian #158 Adam Hall MNZM wrapping up the NZ Paralympic Team campaign at Milano Cortina 2026, with an outstanding silver medal in the Slalom Standing, his sixth Paralympic medal, competing at his sixth Paralympic Winter Games. It was incredible to see and hear Adam’s reaction, and just how much this means to him, and the wider NZ Paralympic Team. It has also meant a lot for his family and friends, many of whom were in the stands in Cortina, and those cheering him on from home.
The competition had a delayed start as heavy snow was falling, and the mountain was enveloped in thick fog. The army of volunteers worked hard to ensure that the field of play was ready for competition, and that the accumulated snow was cleared from the seats for spectators in the grandstand. What remained was the platform for Adam to go to work and deliver a medal on the biggest stage.
We are also excited to announce that during Milano Cortina 2026, Adam was elected to join the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Athletes’ Council for the next four years. Already a member of the PNZ Athletes’ Council, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) Athletes’ Commission, and the FIS Council, Adam is a strong advocate for the Para athlete voice. He has now been elected by his peers, alongside Tyler McGregor (Para ice hockey, Canada) to represent their views with the IPC. A third candidate will be selected at a future Council meeting, after two other candidates were a tie for the third available position.
PNZ Chair and President Jana Rangooni and I, had the opportunity to meet with IPC President Andrew Parsons in Cortina. We have also been able to connect with many members of the IPC Governing Board, which was newly elected towards the end of 2025. Engagement at this level is important to ensure PNZ maintains an open dialogue on how to maximise the impact of the Paralympic Movement in Aotearoa New Zealand.
During our meeting with Andrew, PNZ was presented with the PARA Sport Awards, announced during 2025 – recognising the impact of the #We’llGiveYouSomethingToTalkAbout marketing campaign from Paris 2024 (which has continued for Milano Cortina 2026), and the IPC Member Award. These trophies will now take pride-of-place in our PNZ offices.
This evening, the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games will come to an end, with the Closing Ceremony taking place in Cortina. In a great spectacle and celebration, both New Zealand Paralympians will feature in the proceedings – Corey as flag bearer, and Adam acknowledged for his election to the IPC Athletes’ Council.
I’m sure you will all join with me in extending congratulations to both Paralympian #158 Adam Hall MNZM and Paralympian #188 Corey Peters MNZM for representing New Zealand with distinction and pride at this pinnacle Paralympic Winter event. Their individual performances – not only in Italy, but across extended distinguished careers – have been exceptional, and they are both incredible ambassadors for the Paralympic Movement in Aotearoa New Zealand, and globally.
Ngā mihi and grazie!
