UC Santa Barbara and Paralympics Great Britain Mark Historic 2028 Training Partnership
Patricia Martellotti
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) – Some of the world’s top Paralympians are heading to UC Santa Barbara.
Paralympics Great Britain has chosen the campus for summer training ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
“It’s a hugely important partnership for us,” said director of sports Penny Briscoe of the British Paralympic Association.
Athletes will live on campus, train in UCSB’s world-class facilities, and connect with the Santa Barbara community.
“It’s fabulous campus great facilities. It’s accessible and accommodation and dining opportunities,” said Briscoe.
“They want to be part of our campus community so when people see them working out, they’re going to be working out with our general student community when they’re in our facilities in our fitness centers they’re going to be at the students when they’re in our pools in our fields they’re gonna be with our students,” said executive director Stephen Byrd of the UCSB Department of Recreation.
“I think it’s really cool. I think the Paralympics are really cool because it allows for you know anyone from all walks of life to compete and be able to witness and experience their dream,” said student Quinn Ziegert of UCSB.
In just a few years, the athletes you’ll see going for gold in Los Angeles will be training on campus.
A wonderful showcase for Santa Barbara, our community and our commitment to disabled access,” said congressman Gregg Hart.
“I’m really excited to see the Olympians come I can’t wait to see them in person,” said student Ryan Valenzuela of UCSB.
From 2028’s future medalists to the Gauchos cheering them on—UCSB is now part of Paralympic history.
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