Melbourne’s blind and low vision community have been given a special opportunity to hear from an athlete involved in one of the most memorable events in recent Olympic history.
Former Great Britain Olympian, Derek Redmond, will visit Vision Australia’s Kooyong headquarters on Wednesday, October 16 to speak to Vision Australia’s workforce members, clients and members from other blindness and low vision organisations.
Now a recognised and in-demand motivational speaker, Derek represented Great Britain in athletics at the 1988 and 1992 Olympics, as well as at the World Championships in 1987 and 1991.
Throughout his career, Derek battled and overcame numerous injuries and it was an injury that occurred at the Barcelona 1992 Olympics that he is perhaps most remembered for. During the semi-finals of the 400 metres event, Derek suffered a hamstring injury and was struggling to finish the race. Derek’s father, Jim, ran to his assistance and the pair finished the race together.
Despite official records stating he “Did Not Finish”, the imagery of Jim supporting an emotional Derek to finish the race has become an iconic moment in Olympic history and is held by many as an example of perseverance and resilience.
Those themes will be what Derek expands upon in his visit to Vision Australia.
“Derek’s story is a great example of showing resilience in the face of adversity and we think hearing from him will be a great experience for our workforce members and clients. We’re very grateful Derek is giving us his time,” Troy Pearl, Vision Australia’s National Wellbeing Health and Safety Manager, said.
“There’s definitely elements of Derek’s story that we think will resonate with our community, and his story might provide people with something they can take away and use to help further develop their skills and set goals to deal with challenges they may face, whether professionally or personally,” Troy added.
Derek’s visit to Vision Australia is part of an Australian tour organised by Thomas International, a leading a leading psychometric assessment and development consultancy.
“Thomas International is proud to help shine a light on some of the workers in this country that deserve attention. Derek’s story aligns perfectly with the Australian spirit of mateship and resilience. It’s an honour for him to speak to Vision Australia”, said Garth Crossley, Consulting Director.
Derek Redmond will speak at Vision Australia Kooyong, at 11am on Wednesday, October 16. Vision Australia clients are invited to attend. For more information, call Troy Pearl on 0417 712 106.