Bridgestone is leveraging its expertise in rubber and tire materials to support athletes at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games by enhancing equipment used in adaptive sports. The company is collaborating with Paralympic Games athletes to refine rubber components for equipment like wheelchair tires, hand rims, and gloves. This will result in improved performance and durability.
Survey data indicates that many athletes face challenges in sourcing or modifying the equipment they need. Bridgestone's work in this area reflects its broader mission to create more equitable opportunities in sports by removing barriers related to equipment access.
Susannah Scaroni, "a Team Bridgestone athlete ambassador and Team USA wheelchair racer who won gold in the 5000m event at Tokyo 2020" shares: "The right equipment can be life-changing for athletes. When I first received a racing chair designed with me in mind, it gave me greater confidence and trust in my equipment. That allowed my focus to shift more toward my training and performance. I know so many others who did not have that experience, which can impact their path in the sport and motivation to participate."
Upgraded Adaptive Sports Components
Bridgestone Supports Athletes at the 2024 Paralympic Games
Trend Themes
1. Enhanced Adaptive Sports Equipment - The development of specialized rubber components such as wheelchair tires and hand rims is increasing the performance and durability of adaptive sports equipment.
2. Athlete-centric Equipment Design - Collaborations with Paralympic athletes to customize sports gear are resulting in more tailored and effective equipment solutions.
3. Equity in Sports Technology - Efforts to eliminate barriers to equipment access are promoting more equitable opportunities for athletes in adaptive sports.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Equipment Manufacturing - Advancements in rubber and tire materials are leading to superior, innovative solutions for adaptive sports equipment manufacturing.
2. Paralympic Sports - Investment in specialized, high-performance gear is significantly enhancing the competitiveness and experience of Paralympic athletes.
3. Accessibility Technology - Innovations focused on removing equipment-related barriers are fostering greater accessibility and inclusivity in sports.