“Paris 2024 To Deliver Most Spectacular Paralympics In History”, Says IPC President

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Today marks the #OneYearToGo for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. In just twelve months, a remarkable display of athletic prowess awaits, with athletes with intellectual impairment stepping into the spotlight across three captivating sports: Swimming (S14), Athletics (T20/F20), and Table Tennis (Class 11). This event promises to be a celebration of their exceptional abilities and talents.

International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons believes Paris 2024 is on the course to deliver the most spectacular Paralympic Games in history. 

The Brazilian Andrew Parsons holds the belief that a combination of ‘world-class sport, iconic venues, the first Games since the pandemic, and a revolutionary approach by the Organising Committee’ will culminate in a Paralympics that outshines all previous editions.

Parsons expressed, “As we reach the one-year-to-go milestone, all the stars are aligning for Paris 2024 to deliver tremendous and memorable Paralympic Games, setting a benchmark for all future editions.”

He further elaborated, stating, “The Organising Committee has promised innovative and revolutionary Paralympics, Games Wide Open to all. To date, they are delivering on all their promises and with 12 months to go, I could not be more excited for the Games and the legacy they will deliver.”

“Having attended many Para sports events this year, the level of sports performance is quite simply incredible. With the environment Paris 2024 is creating for athletes next summer, which includes many stunning sports venues at the heart of the city, I think the sporting action will surpass all of our expectations. 

“These will be the first Paralympics in Europe since London 2012 and the first to be held with spectators since Rio 2016. This combination, together with accessible and affordable tickets, will ensure we have massive crowds packing the venues, bringing the best out of our athletes. I think the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are going to be spectacular.” 

 Aim to sell every Paralympic ticket 

With tickets set to be up for grabs starting October 9th at rates that cater to families and affordability, the IPC President has an ambitious vision: the complete sellout of all 2.8 million tickets. Among these, a noteworthy half are priced at a wallet-friendly EUR 25 or lower, while tickets spanning the diverse spectrum of 22 sporting events span from EUR 15 to EUR 100.

Andrew Parsons shared his anticipation, stating, “I’m envisioning an overwhelming surge in demand for tickets to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games once they hit the market on October 9th.”

He emphasized the unswerving commitment of the Paralympic Games to inclusivity, saying, “The Paralympic Games has consistently adhered to the pledge of making tickets accessible for all, and Paris 2024 continues to embody this very principle. Our collaborative work with the Organising Committee has yielded a range of prices that cater to families and affordability, granting entrance to world-class sports set against the backdrop of awe-inspiring iconic venues.”

Highlighting the distinctive ambience of the Paralympic Games, he further remarked, “The Paralympic Games stands as one of those rare global sporting mega-events that one can enjoy alongside their entire circle of friends and family. This very essence contributes to the exceptional and unique aura that envelops the Games for each and every attendee.”

Radiating confidence in the athletes’ prowess, Parsons affirmed, “In the span of the last decade, we’ve witnessed a remarkable leap in athletic excellence across all 22 sports. The pool of talent’s depth and the fervour of competition have never been more pronounced. From a sporting vantage point, there’s little doubt that Paris 2024 will secure its place as the zenith of Paralympic Games.”

He concluded on a hopeful note, “Much like previous iterations, our aspiration remains the attainment of a sold-out event, with every ticket being snapped up by eager spectators the moment they’re made available on October 9th. With the fusion of world-class sports, stunning venues, and pocket-friendly pricing, our resolve to achieve this aim is resolute.”

Coming closest to a sold-out scenario was the London 2012 Paralympic Games, where a staggering 2.72 million tickets (equivalent to 95% capacity) were successfully sold. Tokyo 2020 would likely have replicated this feat if not for the pandemic; a remarkable 3.1 million ticket requests poured in during the initial sales months, underscoring the immense interest.

For those keen on securing tickets, they can be acquired through the official Paris 2024 Games website.

Source: International Paralympic Committee

Celebrating Inaugural Games for Athletes with Autism: GG2023 Legacy Story

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The 2023 Virtus Global Games (GG2023) made history as it included the II3 eligibility group (for athletes with autism) to its full medal programme for the first time. This marked a significant milestone in the sporting world providing an inclusive platform for 106 events across nine sports: Swimming, Table Tennis, Athletics, Tennis, Judo, Taekwondo, Cycling, Equestrian, and Rowing. The inaugural event showcased remarkable talents and unrivalled determination, leaving an indelible mark on the global sports community. A record total of 79 athletes (60 male and 19 females) from 19 countries competed.

Unprecedented Achievements:

Maria Kjer Rasmussen and  Axel Parisot Photo Credit: Grégory Picout

Among the inspiring competitors, two athletes stood out, Maria Kjer Rasmussen from Denmark and Axel Parisot from France. These exceptional athletes etched their names in Virtus history, setting best-performance records in an astonishing eight events each. Maria-Kjer’s brilliance shone in the 100m-200m Backstroke, 100m-200m Breaststroke, 50m-100m Butterfly, and 200m-400m Individual Medley, while Axel Parisot impressed in the 50m-100m-200m-400m-800m Freestyle and 200m Individual Medley, along with contributing to the French relay team’s victories in 4x50m and 4x100m Individual Medley.

A Triumph for Kazakhstan:

Dastan Ordabay (first from left). Photo Credit: Grégory Picot

Amidst the jubilation, Kazakhstan celebrated its first participation in the Virtus competition with pride. Dastan Ordabay made his nation proud by clinching four silver medals. A truly historic moment for Kazakhstan’s sports landscape, his achievements were a testament to the power of dedication and resilience.

Inclusive Empowerment:

The impact of GG2023 extends far beyond the podium – they’ve shattered stereotypes, rewritten expectations, and showcased the boundless capabilities of individuals with autism.

Dina Temirgaliyeva, Kazakhstan’s Head of Delegation (HOD), emphasized the significance of Virtus events for athletes with intellectual impairments and autism. According to her, GG2023 has opened doors to high-performance competitions for these exceptional athletes, representing hope and inspiration for every child facing similar challenges in Kazakhstan.

The GG2023 demonstrated the true essence of sportsmanship and inclusivity, setting an example for future generations. The games left a lasting legacy, resonating with the global audience and fostering greater acceptance, and understanding, celebrating athletes with autism and promoting inclusivity.

Virtus Sport continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate future in sports, empowering individuals of all abilities to showcase their talent on the world stage.

2023 Virtus Open European Half Marathon & 10K Road Race Championships are coming to Portugal

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Virtus, the International Sports Federation for athletes with an intellectual impairment, is thrilled to announce that the 2023 Virtus Open European Half Marathon & 10K Road Race Championships will be hosted in Lisbon-Portugal. The event will take place from December 1st to 4th and will be organized by Associação Nacional de Desporto para Desenvolvimento Intelectual (ANDDI-PORTUGAL), Virtus member organisation in Portugal.

ANDDI-Portugal has a rich history of hosting various Virtus events since the 1990s, spanning sports including athletics (indoor and track and field, cross-country, and half-marathon), basketball, cycling, handball, futsal, football, indoor rowing, and table tennis.

This upcoming championship will mark the eighth time ANDDI have hosted a Virtus half-marathon competition. Their experience includes successfully hosting events like Azores 2021 amid Covid-19 restrictions and Viseu 2022 last year, showcasing their expertise in organizing such prestigious sporting events.

 

“We are very proud to host again a great event for Virtus the 2023 Open European Half Marathon, this time in the Portuguese capital, the beautiful city of Lisbon. For the first time ever in Virtus Half Marathons, the program of the event includes also a 10k Road Race Championship which will give additional opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairment including the II2 group”, says José Costa Pereira, Virtus Europe Technical Director and ANDDI-Portugal President.

The event will turn out to be truly an inclusive event for all as the event will be part of the “Lisbon Discoveries Half Marathon” with thousands of participants.

For more information, visit Virtus Sports calendar.

Peru to Host Inaugural 2026 Virtus Americas Regional Games

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Virtus, the International Sports Federation for athletes with an intellectual impairment, has announced that Peru will host the 2026 Virtus Americas Regional Games – the inaugural Games for the Region.

The event will be hosted by Federacion Deportiva Peruana De Personas Con Discapacidad Intellectual- FEDEPEDI, Virtus member organization in Peru and will take place between 2nd October 2026 and 11th October 2026, in Lima.

Peru’s stunning landscapes, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon jungle will provide the perfect backdrop for an exceptional sports event. The Games are predicted to foster camaraderie, cultural exchange, and the growth of sports in the region.

Manuel del Castillo, President of FEDEPEDI, is also the Vice President of the Peruvian Olympic Committee – COP.  expressed his excitement for the games.

“We are deeply grateful and honoured to have been chosen to host the VIRTUS American Games here in Peru. Our rich and diverse culture, steeped in history and tradition, provides a fitting setting for this prestigious event that celebrates inclusion and amplifies vital efforts focused on empowering people with intellectual disabilities”, said

“The Games will act as a catalyst to raise awareness and foster a collective effort to create an inclusive world for all. Through the unifying power of sport, we can show the immense potential of people with intellectual disabilities who with the right support can achieve remarkable goals and overcome challenges”, he further added.

FEDEPEDI will collaborate with the National Paralympic Association of Peru (ANPPERU), the Peruvian Olympic Committee (COP), and the Peruvian Institute of Sports (IPD). This collaboration will have a significant impact, and ensure the successful organization and execution of the games.

The multi-sport event will offer competition across ten sports: Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Cycling, Futsal, Judo, Swimming, Taekwondo, Tennis and Table Tennis.

Virtus already holds Regional Games in Europe and jointly in Asia/Oceania in the year before Global Games. Marc Truffaut, Virtus President explained how important it was for the Americas region to be added,

“Virtus is developing a very comprehensive competition pathway for athletes with an intellectual impairment and Regional Games are a critical part of this. I am delighted that FEDEPEDI has come forward to host this inaugural event for our Americas members.”

With a rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, Peru awaits to welcome athletes and delegations from the Americas to exchange experiences and showcase their talents.

Details regarding the sports programme will follow soon.

Brazilians dominated T20 events medal tally at Paris 23

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The Paris 23 World Para Athletics Championship has been a platform for exhilarating performances in the T20 class events. From the closely contested Men’s 400m race to the outstanding displays in the Long Jump and 1500m races, the competition has been nothing short of remarkable.

T20 Men’s 400m

In the Men’s 400m, spectators were treated to a nail-biting finish, with the top five athletes finishing within microseconds of each other. Samuel Oliveira from Brazil stole the show with a dazzling finish, setting a new Championship Record with a time of 47.20 seconds. Daniel Tavares (BRA) and Philippe Yovanni (MRI) showcased their incredible skills, clocking times of 47.30 and 47.48 seconds, respectively.

“It’s great to be a champion. Very happy. First World Cup and already get the gold medal. It’s too good. I thank my coach and my family”, said Samuel Oliveira.

Three-time World Champion, Daniel Tavares expressed his happiness for sharing the podium with his fellow team-mate Samuel. Uncertain about being able to run again after getting Covid, Daniel was delighted to clock his season best at Paris 23.

T20 Men’s Long Jump

Latif Romly from Malaysia once again demonstrated his dominance in the T20 Men’s Long Jump event. With a remarkable leap of 7.40 meters, Romly set a new championship record, reaffirming his position as the Paralympic Champion and world record holder.

“I have qualified for my third Paralympics in Paris next year. It was unfortunate that I aggravated my groin after the second jump. But it was good enough for me to win gold”

Noah Vucsics from Canada followed closely with a jump of 7.35 meters, while Prodromou Athanasios from Greece secured the bronze medal with a season’s best jump of 7.12 meters.

T20 Men’s 1500m

In a remarkable World Championship debut, nineteen-year-old Ben Sandilands from Great Britain made a name for himself by defeating the World Record holder and Rio 2016 Champion, Michael Brannigan from the USA. Sandilands set a new Championship Record with an impressive time of 3:52.42 seconds, showcasing his immense talent and potential in the event. Brannigan, despite being beaten, clocked his season-best time of 3:53.50, demonstrating his remarkable abilities as well.

“It does feel amazing to win a gold. I think I sped up with 200m to go, but I know I have that speed in me, so it definitely helped. I just feel exhausted now. I went into the race thinking I could win and I did, so it has given me a lot of confidence for the future,” Sandilands told IPC.

Sandro Baessa from Portugal put up an exceptional performance, recording his personal best time of 3:54.04 and securing the final spot on the podium.

T20 Women’s Long Jump

Karolina Kucharczyk, a two-time Paralympic Champion and world record holder, reaffirmed her absolute dominance in the Women’s Long Jump event for the T20 class. In a phenomenal display of her abilities, Kucharczyk successfully defended her title by leaping to an impressive distance of 6.08 meters in her fifth attempt, setting a new season record. Zileide Cassiano Da Silva from Brazil secured the silver medal for herself with a jump of 5.97 meters, showcasing her own exceptional skills in the competition.

Jardenia Felix Barbosa Da Silva from Brazil, a Tokyo 2020 Bronze medallist, once again showcased her versatility and remarkable talent at the Paris 23 event. In the Long Jump event, she secured the bronze medal with a jump of 5.49 meters. This achievement adds to her previous bronze medal in the 400m event at Tokyo 2020, highlighting her prowess in multiple disciplines.

T20 Women’s 1500m

Barbara Bieganowska-Zajac, the three-time Paralympic Champion and world record holder, showcased her unwavering dominance by claiming the gold medal in impressive fashion with a fantastic season-best time of 4:28.66.

Antonia Keyla Da Silva from Brazil added another silver medal to her country’s tally, crossing the finish line with a time of 4:30.75. Liudmyla Danlina from Ukraine secured the bronze medal while also recording her season-best time of 4:32.93.

Brazil dominated the T20 events medal tally with five medals (one gold, three silver and one bronze) and stood second on the overall tally, followed by Ukraine who also secured five medals (one gold, one silver and three bronze).

These remarkable performances exemplify the incredible talent and determination displayed by these athletes on the world stage.

Maksym and Breanna thrashed World Records at Paris 23

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The 2023 World Para Athletics Championships are underway in Paris from 9th July and will conclude on 17th. The elites with an intellectual impairment who won multiple medals at the 2023 Virtus Global games this June, made their way to Paris and already stealing the show.

WR in F20 Men’s Shot-Put

Maksym Koval at Virtus Global Games. Photo credit: T.NGUYEN

The reigning Paralympic and Virtus Games champion, Maksym Koval from Ukraine thrashed the world record in the F20 Shot. Maksym broke two Virtus World Records recently at the 2023 Global Games, in the II1 Mens shot put and in discuss throw. Improving his performance by 0.10m from the GG2023 result, Koval reached an incredible distance of 17.57 meters, setting the new WR in the event. Zolkefli Muhammad Ziyad (MAS) secured second place whilst recording his season-best with 17.21m and Yarovyi Oleksandr (UKR) settled for the bronze with 16.99m. 

WR in T20 Women’s 400m

Breanna Clark at Tokyo 2020. Photo Credit: OIS

Two-time Paralympic Champion, Breanna Clark from the USA shattered the world record in 400m with her lightning speed, clocking an impressive time of 55.12 seconds. Clark set the Championship record in the heats with 55.52sec and later cracked the WR in the finals. Yuliia Shuliar (UKR) recorded her season best with 56.29 and secured the silver while Carina Paim from Portugal grabbed the last spot on the podium.

CR in F20 Women’s Shot Put

Sabrina Fortune (GBR) retained her title in F20 Shot Put. The Welsh athlete also set a new championship record with a distance of 14.01 meters by defeating the Paralympic Champion, Poleth Mandez from Ecuador who covered 13.60m. Shpachynska  Viktoriia (UKR) settled for the Bronze. 

The T20 Men’s 400m, T20 Men’s and Women’s 1500m, F20 Women’s and Men’s Long Jump are scheduled for the 14th evening, the 16th and 17th July respectively.

Live coverage and results of the events are available on the World Para Athletics Website.

Poland to host 2023 Virtus World & European Cross Country Championships

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Virtus, the International Sports Federation for athletes with an intellectual impairment, is delighted to announce that Poland will host the 2023 Virtus World & European Cross Country Championships in Ciechanów.

The event will be hosted by SPRAWNI-RAZEM, Virtus member organization in Poland from the 26th to 30th of October 2023 and will offer competition across all three Virtus eligibility classes- II1, II2 and II3. The competitions will take place on a designated running route chosen by the organizers in the suburbs of Ciechanów.

Expressing their gratitude, President of Sprawni-Razem, Dariusz Mosakowski says,

“Sprawni-Razem is proud and grateful for being awarded the opportunity to host another sports event by the Virtus Sport. We are delighted that our friends from the entire Virtus family will once again experience Polish hospitality, create memorable moments, and share in the excitement of sports.”

Sprawni-Razem has hosted a wide range of Virtus events including the 2019 Cross Country Championships in Trzebnica, the 2020 Indoor World Championships in Toruń, the 2021 World Athletics Championships in Bydgoszcz and the 2022 European Championships in Krakow.

While praising the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for their successful bid to host the 2023 Virtus World & European Cross Country Championship, Virtus President Marc Truffaut expressed his congratulations to SPRAWNI-RAZEM.

“They have hosted world-class Virtus events in the past few years, including during the Covid-19 pandemic and we are confident that they will deliver yet another remarkable and memorable event for athletes and spectators alike”.

More updates about the can be accessed here.

Lenine Cunha represented Athletes with II at IPC Athletes’ Forum

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The 95th International Paralympic Committee Governing Board meeting was held in Seoul, South Korea from the 21st to the 24th of June which was followed by the IPC Athletes Forum from the 25th to the 27th of June. Both events were hosted by the Korean Paralympic Committee at the National Training Centre, known for its exceptional facilities including 300 accessible rooms and amenities.

During the IPC Governing Board meeting, President Andrew Parsons, CEO Mike Peters, Governing Board members, and staff came together to discuss various topics and provided updates on the processes and policies of the IPC, on the Games and on future plans. The overarching aim was to work towards the IPC’s vision of creating an inclusive world through the promotion and development of para-sport.

The three-day IPC Athletes Forum was conducted soon after the Governing Board meeting and more than 60 athlete representatives participated in the third IPC Athletes’ Forum. Virtus and Athletes with intellectual impairments were represented for the first time ever at an IPC Athletes Forum by Track and Field legend and Virtus Ambassador, Lenine Cunha.

Robyn Smith and Lenine Cunha at the 2023 IPC Athletes’ forum.

“It was amazing. I felt very welcomed and of course, for me, it was a great honour to be the first one to represent  Virtus. We talked about a lot of things like athletes’ future after retirement, their mental health, anti-doping and how IPC can support athletes with intellectual impairment more”, said Lenine Cunha.

“Athletes with intellectual impairments need more opportunities at Paralympic Games like more events and sports and IPC President, Andrew Parsons said he will look into this, if not for Paris 2024 but for LA2028”, he further added.

On day one, discussions on a variety of topics including the impact of Para sports, leadership, Paralympic Games and anti-doping.

The second day of the forum primarily focused on classification, covering the basics and providing an update on the IPC Athlete Classification Code review. There was also a session on governance, emphasizing athlete representation in IPC Committees under the new IPC Constitution. The day concluded with a Q&A session with IPC President Andrew Parsons and IPC CEO Mike Peters, allowing attendees to ask questions and gain further insights.

The forum’s final day, held on June 27, featured a panel discussion centred around athlete representation, as well as discussions on athlete well-being and career transition. Additionally, a breakout session was conducted to explore the essential qualities that an athlete leader should possess.

Andrew Parsons, IPC President said, “The IPC Athletes’ Forum was a fantastic opportunity for the IPC to inform athletes about our ongoing work but most importantly for the IPC to hear first-hand from athletes about their issues, challenges and things that matter most to them. To engage with athletes for three full days, away from competition, to learn more will make the IPC an even better, more athlete-focused organisation.”

Robyn Smith, Vice President of Virtus and IPC Governing Board member also attended the Athletes’ forum to support Lenine, but she was proud to say,

‘Lenine was simply exceptional, represented Virtus with honour, met many IPC leaders charming them with his personal skills and really did not need my support. Lenine proved that he can represent Virtus and athletes with intellectual impairments on any IPC athlete committee independently’.

Virtus conducted an athletes’ forum during the Virtus Global Games, and with Lenine’s exceptional leadership, the organization aims to nurture and strengthen this group, fostering continued growth and success

Twenty three Virtus World Records thrashed in Athletics at GG2023

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In a stunning display of athleticism, the sixth edition of Virtus Global Games witnessed the shattering of a staggering number of twenty Virtus World Records in Track and Field events.

II1 records

  1. Maksym Koral (UKR): In the II1 competition class, Paralympic Champion Maksym Koral, demonstrated incredible strength and control in both discus and shot-put events, propelling him to new world records with 45.85m and 17.47m respectively. In a conversation with Virtus, he expressed gratitude and happiness after the event.
  2. Honami Kawaguchi (JPN): Honami Kawaguchi from Japan showcased her exceptional throwing ability in the javelin and set a new Virtus WR by achieving a remarkable distance of 40.97 meters.
  3. 4x200m Mixed Relay (BRA): In the 4x200m mixed relay, the Brazilian team consisting of Felix Barbosa da Silva, Fernandes dos Santos, Antonia da Silva Barros, and Zeferino Ferreira demonstrated incredible teamwork and speed, thrashing the previous WR with the time of 1:43.09.
  4. Eliesha Byrt (AUS): Eliesha Byrt from Australia set a new Virtus World Record in the 3000m steeplechase, completing the race in a remarkable time of 14:27.80 seconds.

Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

II2 records

At the second edition of the Global Games, where the II2 athletes competed in a full medal event, an outstanding total of eighteen Virtus World Records (WR) were shattered by these remarkable athletes. Many champions scripted their name on not just one, but two events. Their exceptional performances showcased their immense talent and determination, setting new benchmarks for the II2 class athletes in their respective events.

  1. Hugo Taheny: Australian athlete Hugo Taheny dominated the II2 shot put and discus events, breaking world records in both disciplines. His throws reached unprecedented distances of 11.98m and 32.95m respectively, showcasing his exceptional strength and precision. After the events, Hugo expressed his honour to be part of the Global Games and his happiness with his performance in an interview with Virtus.

    Hugo Taheny  © Virtus. Photo Credit: T.NGUYEN

  2. Chiara Zeni (ITA) set three new Virtus World Records in both 100m and 200m races with a time of 15.41 sec and 32.17 seconds. She also broke the record in Long Jump with a distance of 3.46 meters.
  3. Gabriel Aviles (MEX) set two Virtus WRs. He stormed to victory in the II2 men’s 100 meters and 200m with a remarkable time of 13.33 seconds and 28.68 seconds respectively. Surpassing the previous world record, he solidified his position as the new benchmark in men’s sprinting within his category.

    Gabriel Aviles (Left) and Chiara Zeni (right) Photo Credit: Josh Wakefield and Chiara Zeni

  4. Fatmaelzahra Mohamed (EGY) demonstrated her exceptional talent and stamina, setting a couple of new Virtus World Records in the 800m race and 1500m with a time of 3:45.35 seconds and 8:03.71 seconds.
  5. Sanjuanita Vargas (MEX) showcased incredible throwing ability, thrashing two Virtus World Records in the discus and javelin throwing events with a distance of 16.30m and 16.66m.
  6. Flores Angel (MEX) exhibited amazing speed and determination, thrashing the old Virtus World Record in the 400m race with an astonishing time of 71.45 seconds.
  7. Jesús Guzmán (MEX) displayed extraordinary endurance and speed, achieving a new Virtus World Record in the 800m race with an impressive time of 2:54.91 seconds.
  8. Raiane Silvamendonça (BRA) covered a distance of 6.73 meters, setting a new Virtus World Record in the shot put event.
  9. Eloísa Mosqueda (MEX) blazed through the 400m race with a time of 75.81 seconds, setting a new Virtus WRs with her explosive speed and flawless technique.
  10. Saif Badr (EGY) showcased his talent and precision, replacing the previous Virtus WR in the javelin event with an impressive distance of 23.75 meters.
  11. Nando D’Agostino (ITA) demonstrated exceptional performance, creating a new Virtus WR in the 1500m walk event with a time of 9:52.29 seconds.
  12. Nicole Orlando (ITA) replaced the previous record with an impressive score of 959 points in the Triathlon event.

Full results of the Global Games website.

Acer Ebru and Chen-Po Yen qualifies for Paris 2024

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The II1 table tennis tournament brought intense excitement as the qualifying matches unfolded at the GG2023 on 6th June. Spectators were treated to nail-biting Paris 2024 qualifying matches in both the male and female II1 categories. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as each match brought its own set of surprises and intense moments.

In II1 Women’s semi-final matches, while home favourite Lea Ferney had to face defeat at the hands of Turk Surmeyra (TUR) by 3-0, Acer Ebru (TUR) thrashed ITTF World no. three, NG Mui Wui (HKG) by 3-0 and got one step closer to the golden ticket for Paris 2024. On the other hand, Wong Ting Ting made it to the finals by achieving victories over Turk Surmeyra (TUR) and Seo YangHee (KOR) in the quarterfinals and semi-finals, respectively, with scores of 3-0 and 3-1.

In the thrilling finals, Acer and Wong Ting Ting treated the audience to an exhilarating series of matches. Acer displayed an aggressive playing style, launching powerful smashes, while Ting Ting calmly defended against the onslaught. However, Ting Ting eventually succumbed to Acer’s relentless attacks and lost the finals by a score of 3-0 (11-7, 11-7, 11-5).

Acer Ebru with her Paris 2024 Ticket. ©Virtus. Photo Credit: T.NGUYEN

Ebru Acer created history by becoming the first athlete with an intellectual impairment from Turkey in Table Tennis to qualify for the Paralympic Games ever. She broke into tears while talking to Virtus.

“I don’t know what to say, I am very happy. I practised really hard for this competition, and I am very happy to qualify for Paralympics,” said Acer Ebru.

Representatives from Virtus member organisations from Turkey were overwhelmed too by Acer’s victory.

“It’s the first time a Turkish athlete in Table Tennis will go to the Paralympics and we are extremely happy about it. Our team has become very strong in the past few years in Table tennis, we have been training for the past six years for this achievement.” Mr. Birol, President of Virtus Turkey told Virtus.

“Virtus competitions have played a key part in Acer’s journey, without Virtus competition Acer wouldn’t have been able to achieve this feat today,” he further added.

Meanwhile, in Men’s category, Makajew Maciej (POL) took everyone by surprise by defeating three-time Paralympian, Peter Palos (HUN), and Sam Von Einem (AUS) by 3-0, 3-2 in knockout matches to secure a place in the finals. Kim Chang-Gi (KOR) too stood well to everyone’s expectations by winning all the matches, beating the ITTF world no. 1 Lucas Creange by 3-2, but later succumbed to Chen Po Yen from Chinese Taipei in the semifinals.

Chen-Po Yen with his Paris 2024 ticket. © Virtus. Photo Credit: T.NGUYEN

Chen-Po faced Makajew Maciej in the finals and had a clean win by 3-0 (11-8,11-8, 15-13) over Makajew. Seventeen-year-old, Chen-Po was delighted to winch ticket to Paris 2024 and was seen celebrating with his contingent. Talking to Virtus, Dr Mu, Ming-Chu, President of the Chinese Taipei Paralympic Committee, who was also the Head of Delegation for Chinese Taipei said,

“I am very proud of this young boy who is just a high school student. Chen had no specialised training program to train himself but he did his best and achieved this extraordinary result. I am very happy and proud that he qualified for the Paralympic Games in Paris next year.”

International Paralympic Committee President, Andrew Parsons was among the distinguished guests who watched the historical finals and was very impressed by their performances.

“It was an honour to present both the athletes with the Gold Medal and the qualification certificate to Paris 2024″, Andrew Parsons commented.

Virtus extends its heartfelt congratulations to both qualifiers for their exceptional performance and looks forward to their Paralympic Games debut in Paris 2024. Their participation in the Paralympic Games will serve as an inspiration to athletes worldwide.