GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (August 28, 2024) – Visit Lauderdale, the tourism marketing agency for Greater Fort Lauderdale, proudly presents “Abbas Karimi: Road to the 2024 Paralympic Games.” This captivating mini-documentary chronicles the extraordinary journey of Karimi – Visit Lauderdale’s newest ambassador and a competitor on the 2024 U.S. Paralympics Swimming Team.
Born without arms in war-torn Afghanistan, Karimi's story is one of unparalleled resilience and triumph. The documentary takes viewers from the turbulent backdrop of Afghanistan to the serene, state-of-the-art swimming facilities in Greater Fort Lauderdale and beyond, as Karimi makes his debut in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games on August 28, 2024.
“Abbas Karimi: Road to the Paralympic Games” is a visual journey that inspires and uplifts, showcasing how one’s perseverance can transcend boundaries.
Karimi, now a proud resident of Greater Fort Lauderdale, will compete alongside over 4,000 para-athletes in an international arena from August 28 to September 8. The Paralympics features athletes with physical, visual, and intellectual impairments, and Karimi’s participation underscores a powerful narrative of inclusivity and hope.
Aligning perfectly with Visit Lauderdale’s brand promise, “Everyone Under the Sun,” Karimi’s inspiring message resonates far beyond the lanes of the swimming pool. Having already garnered six international medals and 25 national titles and securing a spot on Team USA for the 2023 World Para Swimming Championships in Portugal, Karimi epitomizes unwavering spirit and determination.
Join us in celebrating Abbas Karimi’s journey and cheer for a hero whose story is a testament to the power of the unyielding pursuit of one's dreams. For more information on Visit Lauderdale’s accessibility initiatives, check out VisitLauderdale.com.
About Greater Fort Lauderdale
With 24 miles of golden sand beaches and 300+ miles of navigable waterways, Greater Fort Lauderdale is known as the Venice of America and Yachting Capital of the World. The area boasts an average year-round temperature of 77˚F, has 3,000+ hours of annual sunshine, and is home to 31 unique municipalities, including eight distinct beach communities, each offering something for “everyone under the sun.” Residents hailing from 170 countries, speaking 147 languages call this diverse destination home. And there’s good reason, including the area’s unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Upon arrival at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), a five-minute drive will get you to the beach, Port Everglades, the newly expanded Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, and a bustling downtown. Experience 4,000+ eateries, a thriving arts and culture scene, craft breweries, stunning rooftop bars, fishing, diving, and the unmatched beauty of the Florida Everglades. From world-class shopping, to boating, yachts and superyachts all moored at the area’s many marinas, it’s no wonder Greater Fort Lauderdale is one of the most desirable places to stay, work and play. The destination has more than 38,000 unique lodging accommodations at a variety of hotels, luxury spa resorts, and beautifully appointed, boutique properties, all reflecting the area’s cosmopolitan vibe.
About Visit Lauderdale
Visit Lauderdale is the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale and serves as the tourism department for Broward County, Florida. Visit Lauderdale promotes the area’s 31 municipalities to a global audience of leisure and business travelers as the ideal place for Everyone Under the Sun in recognition of the area’s diverse and welcoming vibe, and books conventions into the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center and area hotels and resorts. Find more information and follow @VisitLauderdale on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.