The Hartford, one of America's largest investment and insurance companies, was a founding partner of US Paralympics back in 2003 and the new deal means that the Connecticut-based company will continue as the Official Disability Insurance Sponsor of the organisation through to the conclusion of the Rio 2016 Paralympics.

"The partnership between The Hartford, with our focus on achievement and ability, and the US Paralympic team is a natural fit," said Mike Concannon, executive vice-president of group benefits ar The Hartford.

"We have been a strong supporter of US Paralympic athletes since 1994 and are proud to continue our partnership of helping individuals break through physical limitations to achieve greatness."

Charlie Huebner, the USOC's chief of Paralympics, has also expressed his delight at the sponsorship renewal.

"The Hartford has had a tremendous impact on the Paralympic Movement in the United States," said Huebner.

"Throughout its long history with US Paralympics, including more than 15 years of sponsoring programmes, organisations and world-class athletes, the company has been a true leader and we are proud that our great partnership will continue."

Melissa Stockwell welcomed the new deal between The Hartford and US Paralympics

As part of the partnership, The Hartford sponsors and organises more than 200 events featuring US Paralympic athletes throughout the United States annually.

These events provide an opportunity for The Hartford's employees, clients and agency partners to share Paralympic experience in the course of everyday business.

The events also create educational opportunities across America to promote awareness – particularly within the business community – of the value that employees with disabilities bring to the workplace.

"The Hartford's continued support of US Paralympics, and athletes like myself, allows us to become better athletes, focus on our athletic goals and reach for our dreams," added Melissa Stockwell, a US Army veteran and Paratriathlete who is training for the Rio 2016 Paralympics.

"Through The Hartford's programmes and events, we're not only raising awareness of US Paralympics, but also showing everyone how athletes with disabilities are able to strive for goals with no boundaries and achieve what may seem impossible."

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