Young Photographer Surprised by Paralympian During School Visit

A nine-year-old student from St Mary’s School in Gore, New Zealand, received a remarkable surprise after winning a nationwide photography competition. The competition, titled “Where is my healthy place?”, was organized by the Bupa Foundation, Paralympics New Zealand, and NZ Landcare Trust. Participants were invited to submit photographs showcasing their interpretation of a healthy environment, with the winner receiving a visit from a Paralympian and the opportunity to plant trees in their school.

Eden Barbour captured the winning photo from the summit of East Peak, showcasing a stunning view of Southland following a challenging climb. Unbeknownst to her, she had won until earlier this month, when Holly Robinson, a celebrated para athlete from Dunedin, visited her school during an assembly, leaving Eden “speechless.” Robinson, who secured a gold medal in javelin at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, a silver in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, and a bronze in shot put at the upcoming 2024 Paris Games, engaged with the students by answering their questions before participating in a tree-planting activity.

Eden expressed her excitement about the event, stating, “It was cool. She won a bronze medal, and I got to wear it, and I also got to hold the shot put that she uses. I loved it when I got to share [the visit] with all of the school, because it wasn’t just for me, it was for the whole school.”

The visit was equally rewarding for Robinson, who described it as a significant aspect of her role as an athlete. “The kids were all really excited; you can see it on their faces. They’re smiling, they’re excited, they just want to listen and hear,” she remarked. Robinson emphasized the importance of giving back, stating, “To be able to go and talk to the kids, give them a little piece they can take into their own lives, that’s a really special thing.”

The initiative has garnered positive feedback from those involved. Pedro Sanchez, managing director of Bupa New Zealand, praised the collaboration between the organizations, stating, “It’s great to bring NZ Landcare Trust and Paralympics New Zealand together to create such a meaningful day for the kids. The athletes are so generous with their time and really make a lasting impact.”

The event not only celebrated the achievements of young talent but also highlighted the importance of community engagement and the role of athletes in inspiring the next generation. Robinson’s visit left a lasting impression on the students at St Mary’s School, reinforcing the value of sportsmanship and the significance of healthy environments.