Sports minister Sylvan Richards has issued a message of good luck to Bermuda’s two paralympians as they prepare to head to Brazil.

The island will be represented in Rio by Jessica Lewis, a T53 Wheelchair Track athlete, and Yushae DeSilva-Andrade, who will be competing in Boccia in the BC2 Category.

Mr Richards, the Minister of Social Development and Sports, said in a statement: “On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda, I want to congratulate and thank Jessica and Yushae for putting in the dedication required to represent Bermuda at the Rio 2016 Paralympics.

“We are so proud of them and can’t wait for the world to see what they can do.

“Jessica’s talent has taken her to competitions all around the world; she has featured in international magazines and is an inspiration to everyone she meets.”

Ann Lindroth, president of the Bermuda Paralympic Association, stated: “I am so proud to see both Jessica and Yushae participate in the Paralympics this year. I have heard many reports from their coaches about the staggering amount of training they have put in to get to where they are today and on behalf of the Bermuda Paralympic Association I want to wish them the best. We will be cheering for you!”

The Rio 2016 Paralympic Games take place from Wednesday next week until Sunday, September 18.