The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) would like to recognize the incredible commitment and contribution of Vim Kochhar as he retires from the Senate of Canada.

Mr. Kochhar, a champion of advocating equality in Canada for those with a physical disability, contributed greatly to the Canadian Paralympic Team and Movement both as Chairman of the Canadian Paralympic Committee Foundation and as a strong voice for parasport within the government and business community.

"I have known Senator Kochhar for many years," said David Legg, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. "He is one of the longest-standing supporters of the CPC and his passion for parasport is unparalleled. His contributions before, during, and after the Vancouver 2010 Winter Paralympic Games, helped make those Games Canada's most successful, inspiring Canadians to become active and showcasing the commitment and skill needed to play sport at the highest level. And as always, he asked for nothing in return other than doing what was best for the athletes."

Senator Kochhar also helped found the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons. Through this foundation, he created the annual Great Valentine Gala, the Rolling Rampage wheelchair race, the Why Not Marathon and has been a key figure in the Canadian Helen Keller Centre and Rotary Cheshire Homes for the Deaf-Blind. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the Canadian Museum of Human Rights.

"The Canadian Paralympic Committee is proud and honoured to have Senator Kochhar as the Chair of its Foundation," said Henry Storgaard, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. "Mr. Kochhar has played many roles in his life, as a businessman, philanthropist, and most recently as an extremely active Senator on behalf of his country. All in addition to being a leading advocate for those with a disability."

President and founder of the Vimal Group of Companies, Senator Kochhar is a renowned fundraiser, generating millions of dollars for the Canadian disability community. Appointed to the Senate in January, 2010, the Canadian Paralympic Committee would like to acknowledge Mr. Kochhar's public service through the Senate, confident that he will continue to make a difference to Canadians as a private citizen.

About the Canadian Paralympic Committee
The Canadian Paralympic Committee is a non-profit, private organization with 46 member sports organizations dedicated to strengthening the Paralympic movement. The Canadian Paralympic Committee's vision is to be the world's leading Paralympic nation. Its mission is to lead the development of a sustainable Paralympic sport system in Canada to enable athletes to reach the podium at the Paralympic Games. By supporting Canadian Paralympic athletes and promoting their success, the Canadian Paralympic Committee inspires all Canadians with a disability to get involved in sport through programs delivered by its member organizations. For more information, visit www.paralympic.ca.

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For more information:

Alison Korn
Manager, Media Relations
Canadian Paralympic Committee
Tel: 613-569-4333 ext. 243
Cell: 613-298-4927
akorn@paralympic.ca

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