Paula Comes Out On Top Again
Paralympian Paula Tesoriero won the Attitude Sport Performer of the Year Award at a black tie event in Auckland on December 3.
The Attitude Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of New Zealanders living with a disability and have grown out of the Attitude TV series, which screens on TV ONE on Sundays.
Paula was one of three finalists for the sports award, which recognises an individual who has been a consistent achiever in sport.
Despite not having any movement in her right ankle and a prosthetic left leg, Paula is one of the fastest disabled sprint cyclists in history.At the 2009 Para-Cycling Track World Championships, Paula broke the 500m time trial world record she set at the Beijing Paralympics last year.
In May this year she won two gold medals at the World Para-Cycling Cup, setting another new world record in the 200 metre flying start. Later at the Road Cycling World Championships in Italy she won gold in the road race and a bronze in the individual road time trial.
Other Attitude Award category winners announced on December 3, World Disability Day, were Karen Michalanney (Spirit Award) Matthew Aitken (Courage in Sport Award), Glynne MacLean (Artistic Achievement Award), Julie Bartlett (Community Award), Blenheim Foods (ACC Employer Award), Robert Martin (Attitude Hall of Fame), Mackenzie Kench (Person of the Year Award) and Robbie Francis (Youth and ACC Supreme Award winner).Attitude TV associate producer and presenter Curtis Palmer says the awards are a recognition of the achievements of people living a disability – people often overlooked by society, who have long been used to just getting on with life.
ACC is the principal sponsor, supporting the Attitude ACC Employer Award and the ACC Supreme Award.
“ACC was extremely proud to be the principal sponsor of these Awards,” says Dr Jan White, ACC Chief Executive. “We work closely with people who live with disabilities every day, and hear wonderful stories about rehabilitation and injured people returning to their jobs and their communities. Now, with these Awards we have the opportunity to showcase and celebrate the achievements and determination of the finalists.”
The Lion Foundation supported the awards for the second time as well. Chief executive, Phil Holden says the foundation is focused on giving back to local communities through projects and causes that make a real difference.
“These finalists have truly excelled in the areas of business, sport and life and deserve this special recognition – they are an inspiration to all,” Mr Holden says.
Southern Cross Healthcare, Air New Zealand, Invacare, Westpac, Wayne Francis Charitable Trust, Perry Foundation and Drake Medox also support the awards.
Photo caption: Paula Tesoriero and Geoff Bryan, TVNZ Broadcaster