“While my races did not go as well as I had hoped, the London 2012 experience was absolutely incredible to be a part of,” Forber-Pratt said. “I proudly wore my Team USA jerseys and had the experience of a lifetime racing in front of sold out crowds of 80,000 in the stadium. It brought me tremendous joy to be on the start line with two of my competitors from Ghana and Bermuda because I played a small role in helping to get them to the world stage.

“Sport at this level is unifying,” Forber-Pratt added. “To see these individuals and so many others living out their dreams was rewarding. It showed me that I am a part of something bigger than just my own races, but truly a part of this thing called the Paralympic Movement that is taking the world by storm.”

“Leading Authorities could not be more excited about representing Anjali Forber-Pratt for speeches, says Mark D. French, president Leading Authorities, Inc. “Not only is hers a remarkable story, but she is a true inspiration to those who want to perform at the highest level and lead better and more meaningful lives. She has shattered all expectations of what is possible, showing people how to push beyond our boundaries and achieve success. Anjali is also a very powerful speaker and communicator.”

“I’m thrilled for this tremendous honor to again represent my country,” Forber-Pratt said. “Sport is important to me because it transcends supposed physical boundaries and an outlet to achieve what others may deem impossible. This is particularly important to me because I have a physical disability and was so often told growing up “you cannot.” Competing at this level is powerful and has largely shaped me into who I am today: a world-class Paralympic athlete and an advocate for those left on the sidelines. Leading Authorities provides great opportunities for me to tell my story.”

“I was exposed to a variety of sports at an early age, but took a strong liking to track, and by time I turned nine was competing at the national level in track and field. Following a crash in a road race where I broke both wrists, I endured a forced hiatus from wheelchair racing. But, I refused to give up competitive sports. I switched to downhill skiing, which was less intensive on my wrists.”

I’m thrilled for this tremendous honor to again represent my country. I am grateful especially to my coach Adam Bleakney for believing in me and guiding me along the way, and to my other fans, friends, supporters and sponsors. I could not do it without you all, thank you!”

“My sport is important to me because it transcends supposed physical boundaries and an outlet to achieve what others may deem impossible. This is particularly important to me because I have a physical disability and was so often told growing up “you cannot.” Competing at this level is powerful and has largely shaped me into who I am today: a world-class Paralympic athlete and an advocate for those left on the sidelines.”

“It is a privilege for the United States Olympic Committee to recognize those who have made a commitment to promoting excellence in the lives of people with physical and visual disabilities,” Charlie Huebner, USOC Chief of Paralympics said. “Every year, the Paralympic Movement gains momentum across the United States and we have our Amazing Award winners to thank. They are at the forefront of our Movement’s growth on every level, from grassroots programming through international competition.”

“Anjali is an amazing young woman. She has travelled to India, Ghana and basically started the Bermuda Wheelchair (WC) racing team. She also does a lot of work within the US with young athletes. She developed her own coloring book on and about children with disabilities.”

“With the award itself, to me it also came full circle to know that Jessica Cooper Lewis, the young Bermudian athlete that I've been mentoring, hit a London B qualification standard on Saturday night. She has come a long way and is carving her own niche, that's what mentoring is all about. Helping others to develop and achieve their own dreams. It's amazing to be a part of something bigger than yourself.”

“We are thrilled that this incredible roster of Athlete Ambassadors and their teammates are making time to visit local Boys & Girls Clubs through Team for Tomorrow in the lead-up to the London 2012 Games,” said Wayne B. Moss, Boys & Girls Clubs of America Senior Director of Sports, Fitness & Recreation. “The inspiration that these individuals will bring to their communities will undoubtedly make this summer’s Games unforgettable for everyone involved and leave lasting memories for dozens of young people.”

“This is such a wonderful opportunity to reach young women to encourage them to go into education particularly STEM fields,” shared Forber-Pratt. “There will be over 200 in attendance at least at each event. It's a great add-on to the fact that I got my Ph.D. last week from the University of Illinois. I was told more than once it couldn’t be done and I’ve done it.”

“When I first heard of Anjali … I was very impressed. The quiet tenacity by which she has gone about achieving her athletic success comes out as well in her academic pursuits. Anjali is a terrific person. We’ve met up several times at events for the Paralympics. She’s a well-rounded and very accomplished woman, one of many from the University of Illinois, which I have been fortunate to observe. Although I have been involved mostly with her athletic accomplishments and not directly with her academic efforts, just knowing all that she has combined as an athlete and as a successful pursuer of a doctorate is impressive in itself.”

“My story is powerful in that it shows the power of overcoming obstacles and that we all have potential to achieve ... even in the face of adversity,

Anjali truly exemplifies the qualities every professor wants in a doctoral student -- commitment, attention to detail and creativity. Without a doubt, she will rank among the most outstanding students I have worked with in my career.

“My story is powerful in that it shows the power of overcoming obstacles and that we all have potential to achieve ... even in the face of adversity,

“It was a true delight to have Anjali participate at the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Half Marathon,” said Tracy Sundlun, SVP of Competitor Group, organizer of the event. “What an amazing person. What a great role model. Not only is she a world-class athlete, but she’s about to get her PhD. She was truly an inspiration to all of us who a chance to spend time with her.”

“I was exposed to a variety of sports at an early age, but took a strong liking to track, and by time I turned nine was competing at the national level in track and field. Following a crash in a road race where I broke both wrists, I endured a forced hiatus from wheelchair racing. But, I refused to give up competitive sports. I switched to downhill skiing, which was less intensive on my wrists.”

“My most memorable memory was after many first place finishes and basically sweeping the Junior Downhill program races, I placed third in my first outing in the professional level the Columbia Crest Cup at Winterpark, CO. This was just before the Salt Lake Games, and on the home turf of many of the competitors there. Sara Will, one of my role models when I was learning the sport, now became direct competitors. At the medal ceremony, she greeted me saying, ‘welcome to the podium, we expect to see you here more often.’ It goes to show how everyone involved is a good sport and helps to develop the sport.”