Paralympic Skier Neil Simpson Champions Inclusive Sport After Silver Medal Achievement
ParalympicsGB Para Alpine Skier Neil Simpson has underscored the critical importance of encouraging widespread participation in sports, following his impressive silver medal performance at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics.
Historic Medal Haul and Advocacy for Grassroots Engagement
The 23-year-old visually impaired athlete from Macclesfield secured silver in the men's alpine combined event, marking his third Winter Paralympic medal. Simpson previously made history at Beijing 2022 by becoming the first British man to win a gold medal on snow.
Despite reaching the pinnacle of elite sport, Simpson passionately advocates for activity at every level. "It's very important. Ultimately, if people can get out and try some new sports and get moving at whatever level that may be at, I think it's great," he stated.
He further elaborated, "Sport should be something that helps people in various aspects and inclusive initiatives can really help with that."
Personal Journey and Partnership with Guide Rob Poth
Born with nystagmus, a condition causing involuntary eye movement, Simpson began skiing at just four years old. He now competes in the AS3 class for visually impaired skiers, with sport playing a defining role throughout his life.
Simpson skis alongside guide Rob Poth, 28, who communicates via a Bluetooth headset while wearing a hi-vis vest. Poth reflected on their partnership, saying, "Sport's always been part of my life, to get out and about and have that freedom, whatever it may be. There shouldn't be any barriers for anyone to get out and about as much as possible."
Poth added, "Hopefully what this guy's done in his career has inspired a few more to get out and about, whether that be on the mountains or any sport."
Supporting the Every Body Moves Initiative
Simpson's achievements serve as a powerful inspiration for aspiring athletes, and he actively supports the Every Body Moves initiative. This programme, powered by Toyota and ParalympicsGB, aims to empower lives through disability sport and inclusive physical activity.
The initiative provides a platform to help disabled individuals find local opportunities at any skill level, from recreational activity to elite competition. "It's a great initiative," Simpson affirmed. "[Skiing] is a really fun sport to participate in. We've got some brilliant facilities in the UK to try out skiing."
He encouraged participation, noting, "It’s something that if people in the UK have the opportunity to try, then I think it's worthwhile to give it a go."
Simpson's journey from a young skier in Banchory to a Paralympic champion highlights the transformative power of sport, reinforcing his message that inclusivity and accessibility are essential for fostering a healthier, more active society.
