IBSA, World Abilitysport, Virtus, join operational forces to benefit Para athletes

The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA), World Abilitysport and Virtus have begun work on a new collaboration which will see the three organisations share resources and knowledge for the benefit of Para athletes and their stakeholders around the world.

The founding members of the Paralympic movement have been in operation for many decades. IBSA has helped develop sports for people with vision impairments whilst World Abilitysport – following a recent merge with the Cerebral Palsy International Sport and Recreation Association (CPISRA) – has taken care of sports for people with physical impairments and Virtus for people with intellectual impairments and Autism.

IBSA is the international federation for the Paralympic sports of goalball, blind football and judo as well as other non-Paralympic sports. World Abilitysport is the international federation for wheelchair fencing and powerchair hockey and has recently taken on the governance for World Para Dance Sport.

Athletes in action from Blind Football at Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Photo Credit: OIS/Thomas Lovelock.

Each organisation also independently organise a regular calendar of Games and competitions and is responsible for advocating for their respective communities and Para athletes. They are recognised individually as International Organisations of Sport for the Disabled (IOSDs) by the International Paralympic Committee.

The new three-way partnership will see joint working in common areas such as anti-doping, media and communications and broadcasting.

IBSA President, Ilgar Rahimov, said, “Throughout our history, IBSA has enjoyed a close working relationship with our fellow IOSDs, sharing ideas and collaborating on important issues.”

During my election campaign in 2023, I promised IBSA Members that we would transform the way IBSA works with both internal and external stakeholders. Along with World Abilitysport and Virtus, we realised that a lot of the work we do independently could be shared between us, to save resources, improve efficiency and remove duplication.”

I am delighted to begin this new journey as we explore together how we can deliver more – and better – for Members, sports and athletes.”

Kevin Polish USA competing in Wheelchair Archery at Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Photo Credit: OIS/Bob Martin.

World Abilitysport President, Rudi Van Den Abbeele, said, “World Abilitysport has been through some very big changes in recent years, not least the merger with CPISRA. This meant we became the single, global organisation for developing sports for people with physical disabilities.

This new exploratory exercise will allow us to establish how we can share resources between the IOSDs and what common themes there are amongst our constituents, with the aim of streamlining our operations so we can invest even more in our unique core work.”

Breanna Clark USA crosses the finish line in the Women’s 400m – T20 Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Photo Credit: OIS/Thomas Lovelock.

Marc Truffaut, Virtus President, said, “The IOSD’s have a huge role advocating for people with an impairment both within Paralympic and particularly non-Paralympic sports. We are delighted to renew our partnership with IBSA and World Abilitysport”.

About the IOSDs

IBSA was founded in 1981 following a huge increase in interest in sports for people with vision impairments and a need for a specific body to represent them. In the years that followed, IBSA became responsible for goalball, judo and blind football.

IBSA stages a World Games every four years which showcase these sports as well as many others such as athletics and swimming. The full history of IBSA can be viewed here: https://ibsasport.org/about/who-we-are/history/

World Abilitysport is the oldest of the three IOSDs. With its history dating back to the first International Stoke Mandeville Games in 1952, it is the only organisation that provides a full international competition at entry, development and qualifying levels for people with physical impairments. Today, World Abilitysport hosts a series of Games where aspiring and established Para athletes can compete together in both Paralympic and non-Paralympic sports and is the international federation for wheelchair fencing, powerchair hockey and Para dance sports. More information about the history of World Abilitysport can be viewed here: https://worldabilitysport.org/about/who-we-are/history/

Virtus was founded (as INAS) in 1986 and is the International Sports Federation for athletes with an intellectual impairment. It organises an annual programme of World and Regional Championships in 13 sports, culminating in the four-yearly Global Games – the largest elite sports event in the world for people with an intellectual impairment. More information about Virtus can be found here: virtus.sport/about-virtus

IBSA, World Abilitysport, and Virtus – the latter two of which have rebranded in recent years – were all Members of the International Coordinating Committee of Sports for the Disabled in the World (ICC). In 1989 the ICC established the International Paralympic Committee with the responsibility for organising the Paralympic Games.

Double victory for Portugal at Zakopane 2024

The curtains fell on the exhilarating finale of the inaugural Virtus European Winter Games, a day filled with a rollercoaster of emotions.

Amidst the electric atmosphere of the final day, where basketball and futsal titans clashed for podium supremacy, Mother Nature cast her unpredictable hand, forcing the cancellation of the much-anticipated skiing event, leaving athletes disheartened.

Team Portugal posing with trophy

Yet, amidst the disappointment, the Portuguese contingent shone brightly, showcasing their unwavering dominance in team sports.

We knew we had to bring our A-game,” remarked a triumphant Portuguese basketball player after their resounding victory over France I.

It was a tough match, but we stuck to our game plan and pulled through.”

In a historic debut for 3×3 basketball at the Virtus competition, Portugal’s seasoned champions left an indelible mark.

“The pace was exhilarating,With fewer players and more ground to cover, it demanded our absolute best, but we relished every moment of it.” exclaimed another Portuguese player.

The Portuguese team, renowned as a formidable force in team sports across European and world championships, once again asserted their dominance, claiming victory in both 3×3 basketball and futsal at the Winter European Games.

In the basketball finals showdown against France I, Portugal wasted no time seizing control, establishing an early lead in the first quarter. With unwavering pressure, they maintained their advantage throughout, ultimately triumphing with a final score of 17-14.

The introduction of 3×3 basketball to the Virtus competition marked a historic moment, and it was Team Portugal who etched their name in the annals of history by clinching the inaugural title. With their unparalleled experience as multiple-time European and world champions, they proved their mettle once again on the Winter European Games stage.

 

Talking about the structure of the game and the experience, Portuguese basketball team says,

“Playing the 3×3 match today was definitely a new experience for the whole team. It was very difficult as we had less players and more grounds to cover. It is also faster than he 5×5 match. But we enjoyed playing the match”

Host nation tasted defeat by the hands of France-II in the bronze medal match 18-3.

Portuguese Futsal team. Photo Credit: Sprawni-razem

In a gripping display of futsal prowess, the Spanish team surged ahead in the first half, establishing a commanding lead of 3-1 and persistently widening the gap, edging closer to the coveted bronze medal. Their relentless offensive onslaught culminated in a triumphant 7-4 victory over Poland, securing their place on the podium amidst jubilant celebrations.

Meanwhile, in the eagerly awaited finals clash, France launched a spirited assault against Portugal, fueled by aspirations of clinching the championship trophy. However, their aspirations were dashed as the Portuguese squad swiftly seized control with a 2-0 lead in the opening quarter. Despite a valiant attempt at a comeback, with the French team netting two goals of their own, they ultimately succumbed to Portugal’s relentless pressure, conceding defeat by a final scoreline of 7-2.

“The match was a definitely difficult. We had one new player but others had experience so it was easy to modify our game as per the situation and win the trophy,” said the head coach of Portuguese team.

Full results of the can be accessed from VEWG website.

Italy topping the medal tally in rowing at Zakopane 2024

The third day of the Virtus European Winter Games concluded today in Zakopane with Italy dominating the podium in rowing and several skiers claiming their second gold medals.

Indoor Rowing

Italy dominated the podiums in Indoor rowing as four of it’s outstanding rowers win multiple medals.

Italians dominating the rowing events podium. Photo Credit: Sprawni-razem

Marta Piccininno (ITA) showcased her prowess on the rowing machine, clinching gold in both the Women’s II1 2000m and 1000m events, proving her dominance across varying distances.

Italy’s Francesco Saverio Di Donato’s remarkable performance was undeniable as he claimed the top spot in both the Men’s II1 2000m and 1000m races, solidifying his status as a formidable force in indoor rowing.

Marta Casetta’s (ITA) double-medal triumph exemplified her versatility and endurance, securing gold in the Women’s II2 2000m and adding a silver in the fiercely contested 1000m event.

Margherita Merlo (ITA) left spectators in awe with her exceptional rowing abilities, capturing gold in the Women’s II2 1000m race and demonstrating her endurance with a silver in the challenging 2000m competition.

Skiing: Giant Slalom

The slopes of Zakopane, Poland, witnessed remarkable feats of athleticism as skiers from across the globe showcased their skiing skills in the Giant Slalom (GS) event at the Virtus World and European Skiing Championship happening as a part of the Virtus European Winter Games.

Skiiers in action at Zakopane 2024. Photo Credit: Sprawni-Razem

Mélanie De Bona (FRA) clinched the top spot with an impressive combined time of 1:41.54, claiming the second gold medal from the championship. Amilia Selznick (USA) followed closely behind, securing the silver medal (1:42.70) and Eva-Maria Dünser (AUS) rounded off the podium, claiming the bronze medal (1:46.26).

In the II1 Men’s category, phenomenal French dominator Thomas Girard leading the charge. Girard’s stellar performance earned him the gold medal (1:34.93), showcasing remarkable speed and technique. His compatriot, Antoine Maure, secured the silver medal (1:37.77), while Christian Öllinger (AUS) settled for the bronze medal (1:41.02).

Anna-Sophie Friedl (AUS) delivered a stunning performance in the II2 Women’s category, clinching another gold medal (1:55.69). Stephanie Schlömmer (AUS), secured the silver medal with a time of (2:06.60), demonstrating admirable resilience on the slopes. Bea-Anna Westerstrahle of Finland showcased determination, earning the bronze medal despite facing challenges on the course.

Antoni Wiercioch from Poland emerged victorious in the II2 Men’s category, claiming the gold medal with a time of 1:50.99. Michael Konrad of Austria secured the silver medal with a time of 1:55.99, while Markus Grameiser, also from Austria, claimed the bronze medal with a time of 1:56.88.

Aleksandra Andrejko (POL) striked hatrick by winning her third gold from the championship in II3 Women’s category. With a time of 1:43.47, Aleksandra defeated Aliye Zeynep Bingül (TUR) and Whitehouse Elizabeth (USA).

In the II3 Men’s category, Axel Bringdal (FRA) claimed his second championship title with a time of 1:34.21, displaying remarkable speed and agility on the slopes. Ange Cazorla (FRA) and Palmer Lyons (USA) secured silver and bronze for themselves.

Basketball:

Athletes in action in Portugal vs France match at Zakopane 2024. Photo Credit: Sprawni-Razem

The semifinal games are scheduled between Poland and Portugal, as well as France-I and France-II. It will be intriguing to observe whether Portugal, champions of the European championship for two consecutive years, can secure a third consecutive championship title, or if another team will emerge victorious.

Futsal:

Athletes in action in Portugal vs Spain at Zakopane 2024. Photo Credit: Sprawni-Razem

Poland and Spain are set to compete for the bronze medal position, while the final showdown promises excitement as perennial rivals Portugal, reigning Virtus Global Games Champions, and France, runners-up in GG2023, prepare to clash once more.

Champions from Zakopane 2024 aspires to compete at the Winter Paralympic Games, urges IPC for inclusion

The second day of the inaugural Virtus European Winter Games in Zakopane ushered in a frosty morning, with temperatures plunging below -3 degrees. Amidst the chill, athletes at the Skiing World and European Championship and European Rowing Championship embraced the chance for victory.

As the Slalom events unfolded, reigning champions defended their titles with aplomb, while fresh talent emerged victorious, ushering in a new era of champions. Amidst these triumphs, athletes seized the moment to advocate for the inclusion of skiing events in the forthcoming Winter Paralympic Games, underscoring the importance of representation and opportunity for all athletes on the global stage

Eva-Maria Dünser from Austria soared to victory in the Slalom event, clocking an impressive time of 42.47 seconds. Reflecting on her aspirations for Paralympic participation, Eva-Maria shared her heartfelt dream, stating,

My biggest dream is that my team and I can compete at the Paralympic winter games…everyone has the ability to ski. You just have to believe in yourself.”

Mélanie De Bona, who clinched gold in Super-G and silver in Slalom, echoed these sentiments, expressing hope for Paralympic inclusion, remarking,

 “I hope that my gold medal helps me to open the doors to the Paralympics…it would be incredible!

Thomas Girard from France, adding to his accolades with one gold and one silver at the Virtus Skiing World Championship, reflected on his recent victories, saying,

“I feel very good after winning one gold and one silver at the Virtus European Winter Games, it helped me regain my confidence like last season. I also regained the title of World Champion today which I was already titled 5 years ago. So, it’s really good and I am going to celebrate my victory with friends and all the staff. I hope we, the skiers, are included into the Paralympic Games soon.”

In a bold move to expand opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairments, Virtus submitted a bid for 2030 Winter Paralympics expansion , urging the IPC and FIS to end long-standing exclusion. Committed to inclusivity, Virtus remains steadfast in its mission to provide avenues for athletes to shine on the global stage.

Virtus member nation delagates meets with Virtus governing board to support the Winter Paralympics #reinclusion campaign at Zakopane 2024.

At Zakopane, the 11 nations competing were also able to meet and discuss the commitment and strategy required for the growth of skiing, and the reinclusion in to the Winter Paralympic Games.

Leading the re-inclusion voice on behalf of Virtus Sport, President Marc Truffaut said,

“We believe that even if you have a disability, you can be an elite athlete and that’s why we are fighting for the re-inclusion of II athletes in the Paralympic movement.”

“It’s the beginning of a new area where Virtus is going to build a strong program in Alpine and Nordic ski to convince the international body, the International Paralympic Committee, we want to convince them and show them that athletes with an intellectual impairment are excellent and they represent the universality of the Paralympic movement.”

First Champions Crowned at Zakopane 2024, First Virtus European Winter Games

History was made in Zakopane, Poland, as the inaugural Virtus Winter Games crowned its champions, marking a significant moment in skiing and indoor rowing history. Athletes from across Europe and select nations worldwide showcased their remarkable skill and determination in the thrilling competitions, highlighting the talent and resilience of participants with intellectual impairments.

SKIING: Super Giant Slalom (SGS)

Winners from II1 Slalom races at Zakopane 2024. Photo Credit: Sprawni-Razem.

In the II1 Women’s Super Giant Slalom, Mélanie De Bona from France secured the top spot with an impressive time of 43.64 seconds. Amilia Selznick representing the USA followed closely behind, achieving a time of 45.97 seconds, just 2.33 seconds behind the leader and Tamami Baba of Japan finished third with a time of 46.81 seconds, trailing by 3.17 seconds.

Aoshi Kanazawa from Japan claimed the top position in the II1 Men’s category with an impressive time of 40.74 seconds. Thomas Girard of France secured second place with a time of 41.05 seconds, just 0.31 seconds behind the leader. Yusuke Kizuki, also from Japan, took the third spot with a time of 42.76 seconds, trailing by 2.02 seconds.

Winners from II2 Slalom races at Zakopane 2024. Photo Credit: Sprawni-Razem.

In the II2 Women’s category, Austrians dominated the podium with Anna-Sophie Friedl from Austria (49.14 seconds) claiming the gold and Stephanie Schlömmer (51.09 seconds) securing herself a silver. Bea-Anna Westerstrahle of Finland finished third with a time of 59.90 seconds, trailing by 10.76 seconds.

Antoni Wiercioch from Poland claimed the top spot in the II2 Men’s category with a remarkable time of 47.71 seconds. Markus Grameiser of Austria secured second place with a time of 48.31 seconds, 0.60 seconds behind the leader. Klemens Zieba, also from Poland, took the third position with a time of 49.20 seconds, trailing by 1.49 seconds.

Winners from II3 Slalom races at Zakopane 2024. Photo Credit: Sprawni-Razem.

In the II3 Women’s category, Aleksandra Andrejko from Poland secured the top spot with an impressive time of 42.90 seconds. Elizabeth Whitehouse representing the USA finished second with a time of 57.03 seconds, trailing by 14.13 seconds. Aliye Zeynep Bingül from Turkey took the third position with a time of 59.36 seconds, trailing by 16.46 seconds.

Axel Bringdal of France claimed victory in the II3 Men’s category with a remarkable time of 40.95 seconds. Ange Cazorla, also from France, secured second place with a time of 41.82 seconds, 0.87 seconds behind the leader. Palmer Lyons representing the USA finished third with a time of 42.29 seconds, trailing by 1.34 seconds.

INDOOR ROWING: 500m

Awe-inspiring performances unfolded in the 500m women’s race. Adriana Czekaj of Poland surged to victory in the II1 division, clocking a lightning-fast time of 1:51.5, closely pursued by Italy’s Marta Piccininno at 1:52.8. France’s Clémence Wattecampps showcased her finesse, clinching third place with a time of 1:54.3.

Indoor Rowing actions at VESG 2024, Zakppane. Photo Credit: Sprawni-Razem

The intensity continued as Marta Casetta of Italy dominated the II2 category, crossing the finish line in 2:31.9, trailed by compatriot Margherita Merlo at 2:37.5. Meanwhile, Nadège Dathy of France showcased sheer determination, securing third place in the II2 division with a time of 2:45.2.

In the men’s category, France’s Damien Touchagues left spectators in awe with his stellar performance, conquering the II1 division in 1:29.3. Italy’s Francesco Saverio Di Donato closely trailed behind at 1:29.5, while Giulio Guerra exhibited his prowess, finishing third in the II1 division with a time of 1:31.4.

The excitement soared as Andrea Appendino of Italy dominated the II2 category, showcasing extraordinary skill with a top spot finish in 1:53.9. Lorenzo Sforza of Italy followed closely at 1:56.7, while Dylan Lorec Berjuin of France delivered a commendable performance, securing third place in the II2 division with a time of 1:59.9.

Not to be outdone, Théodore Chatel of France emerged victorious in the II3 category, setting the pace with a stellar time of 1:28.3. Lorenzo Mazzoletti of Italy showcased his strength, securing second place with a time of 1:29.1, rounding off a day of remarkable achievements and fierce competition.

In the thrilling 4×500-meter relay, Team France showcased their dominance with a remarkable time of 7:01.7, led by the stellar performances of Clementine Berland, Clémence Wattecampps, Ehenne Kolialis, and Damien Touchagues. Italy followed closely behind, securing second place with a time of 7:12.1, led by Francesco Saverio Di Donato, Giulio Guerra, Serena Giorgetti, and Marta Piccininno. The combined efforts of Poland and Portugal earned them third place with a time of 7:22.8, with Jorge Sousa, Adriana Czekaj, Vasco Vicente, and Agata Pitura showcasing commendable teamwork. In the 4×500 II 2 category, Italy continued their winning streak with a time of 9:12.5, while Team France secured second place with a time of 9:37.1.

Live streams of all sports will be available on Virtus social media and YouTube channels.

Stay updated with event highlights at Virtus FacebookTwitter and Instagram on all competition days between 3rd March to 8th March. Event information can be accessed from the Virtus European Winter Games website.

Inaugural Virtus European Winter Games Declared Open In Zakopane, Poland

The first-ever Virtus European Winter Games commenced today in the picturesque city of Zakopane, Poland, hailed as the ‘winter capital’ and a haven for skiing enthusiasts. Athletes from Italy, Australia, Sweden, Turkiye, Poland, France, Austria, USA, Portugal, Spain, Finland and Japan will be competing at the games.

In attendance were esteemed figures such as the President of Polish Paralympic Committee- Łukasz Szeliga,Chairman of the Town City Council of Zakopane- Jan Gluc, Founder and Honorary President of Sprawni-Razem, Zenon Jaszczur, President of Sprawni-Razem- Dariusz Mosakowski, Virtus President- Marc Truffaut and the Virtus governing board members along with the delegates from the competition nations.

President Szeliga expressed his appreciation for the event, emphasizing the potential for closer collaboration between Virtus and the Paralympic movement.

“This is a historic event, and I hope the relationship between Virtus and the Paralympic movement grows, leading to more such events.

President of Polish Paralympic Committee- Łukasz Szeliga (L) and Chairman of the Town City Council of Zakopane- Jan Gluc (R)

He also encouraged athletes, highlighting the ethos of the Paralympic movement.

Remember that the most important thing is that you embody the idea of the Paralympic movement, that impossible doesn’t exist.”

The festivities were enhanced by a captivating performance by the Klimki younger Group, showcasing regional folk dance.

Klimki younger Group performaing at Zakopane 2024

Virtus President Truffaut commended the organizing committee for their remarkable efforts,

This event is very important as it’s the first Winter European Games, marking a historic moment for Virtus. It signifies our commitment to greater inclusion in the Paralympic movement and Winter Paralympic Games.

Extending a warm welcome to the elite skiers with intellectual impairment returning to Zakopane after six years, the President of the Local Organizing Committee, Sprawni-Razem, Dariusz Mosakowski, expressed his heartfelt sentiments, saying,

‘I warmly welcome all the athletes and delegates back to our city, Zakopane. May you all achieve the highest rankings and enjoy the event.'”

The event will offer medal events in Alpine Skiing, 3×3 Basketball, Indoor Rowing and Futsal. Despite Nordic skiing being an integral part of the event, unforeseen challenges arose. Regrettably, adverse weather conditions and melting snow on the tracks forced the cancellation of the competitions.

Live streams of all sports will be available on Virtus social media and YouTube channels.

Stay updated with event highlights at Virtus FacebookTwitter and Instagram on all competition days between 3rd March to 8th March. Event information can be accessed from the Virtus European Winter Games website.

Second Live Virtus Para-Dressage Competition Is Coming To Winchester, UK

We are thrilled to unveil the highly anticipated upcoming second edition of the Virtus para-dressage competition, set to grace Winchester, Great Britain later this year. Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition held at the Global Games last year, this upcoming event is poised to elevate the standards of excellence in para-dressage.

The event is scheduled to take place from 15th to 19th July.

Organized by Virtus in collaboration with Sparsholt College Equestrian Centre, recognized as one of the premier riding venues in the UK, the event will span over two days and offer competition for II1, II2, and II3 riders.

Sparsholt’s world-class facilities, including stabling for up to 66 horses and Olympic-standard indoor and outdoor arenas, ensure an unparalleled experience for both participants and spectators alike. Notably, Sparsholt regularly hosts affiliated and unaffiliated competitions, further attesting to its esteemed status in the equestrian community.

Uta Rindfleisch, our esteemed Sports Director, calls upon all members to rally behind this event.

“The Virtus Equestrian Committee is dedicatedly crafting a comprehensive program of live competition, culminating in the highly anticipated Global Games 2027 – recently announced to be hosted in Cairo, Egypt. These events, complementing our existing video competitions, signify our commitment to providing opportunities for our growing team of riders worldwide. We are thrilled that Sparsholt College will serve as the venue for this fantastic endeavour.”

For further details about the competition, visit Virtus events page. The official entry pack will be available shortly on the Virtus website but next week.

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of para-dressage and showcase the incredible talent within our community!

Cancellation of 2024 Nordic competition

Virtus has been informed that, regretfully, the nordic skiing competition at the 2024 World Championships/European Winter Games has been cancelled due to the unfavourable snow conditions in Zakopane.

The LOC have made all efforts to avoid this decision, which is disappointing for athletes, teams and everyone connected to the event, however it is unavoidable due to the conditions and weather forecast for the coming days.

For refunds and team logistical matters, please contact the organising committee. Virtus and the hosts apologise for this inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Please note that the alpine skiing events are not at risk, with good snow conditions in the higher mountain region.

2027 Virtus Global Games Heads to Cairo, Egypt

Virtus is delighted to announce that the prestigious seventh edition of the Global Games, scheduled for 2027, will be hosted in Cairo, Egypt. This marks a significant milestone as we prepare to welcome thousands of athletes from around the world to this international multi-sport event.

Congratulations to the Egyptian Sports Federation for Intellectual Disabilities (ESFID), Virtus Egypt Member, for their successful bid to host the quadrennial Games. Virtus President, Marc Truffaut, expressed excitement about the journey ahead, highlighting the upcoming World Championships in 2024 and 2025, Regional Games in 2026, and the pinnacle event, the Virtus Global Games 2027 (GG2027).

The GG2027 presents an exciting opportunity to showcase new and emerging talent. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Amal Mobadda, President of Virtus Egypt, and her team for securing the bid, and we wish them the best of luck in the planning process,” said Mr. Truffaut.

The Virtus Global Games, held every four years, serves as a pathway to qualification for the Paralympic Games. Looking ahead to LA2028 and beyond, Virtus is committed to expanding the inclusion of events for athletes with intellectual impairments.

ESFID, as part of the Egyptian Paralympic Committee, showcased world-class sporting venues, the rich cultural heritage of Cairo, and the unwavering support of government and sporting organizations, ensuring that GG2027 will be an exceptional event.

Ms. Amal Mobadda, President of Virtus Egypt and Virtus Africas Region, emphasized Egypt’s commitment to promoting inclusion and celebrating athletic excellence.

It is an honour to host this world-class event in Cairo, where culture and elite sports will converge. We are ready to welcome the best international athletes and provide them with a truly memorable experience in November 2027,” said Ms. Mobadda.

The Virtus Global Games aims to challenge perceptions and promote a more inclusive world, spotlighting the athleticism, resilience, and strength of athletes with intellectual impairments on a global stage.

Stay tuned for more information about the sports events, eligibility criteria, and competition period in November 2027.

Ukraine Leads The Final Medal Count at Reims 2024

The culminating day of the 2024 Virtus World and European Indoor Athletics in Reims, France, witnessed pivotal moments that reshaped the standings.

Liudmyla Danylina of Ukraine showcased unparalleled prowess, clinching gold in both the 800m and 3,000m events, solidifying her dominance in indoor track athletics.

In the Women’s 200m, Yuliia Shuliar of Ukraine sprinted to victory with a blistering time of 25.03 seconds, securing gold. Aysel Önder and Reyhan Tasdelen from Turkey claimed silver and bronze, respectively. Meanwhile, in the Men’s 200m, De Rodriguez Ramirez of Spain claimed gold with an impressive time of 22.37 seconds, closely followed by Igor Oliveira from Portugal and Joel Reinoldsson from Sweden.

In the II1 800m events, Liudmyla Danylina continued her dominance, securing gold in the Women’s category, while Sandro Baessa of Portugal emerged victorious in the Men’s event. Reyhan Tasdelen and Virginie Dreux from Turkey and France respectively secured silver and bronze in womens, while Gael Geffroy and Arthur Bellitto from France claimed silver and bronze in the Men’s 800m.

Danylina continued her winning streak in the 3,000m, claiming gold for Ukraine, with Cristi Pinto Pereira of Portugal securing gold in the Men’s event. Iryna Kandyba of Ukraine and Pavlo Voluikevych secured silver in their respective events, while Anna Bodziony and Adria Parras Alvarez clinched bronze.

Ukrainian athletes dominating podium. Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen/FFSA

In the High Jump events, Ruslana Muravska of Ukraine and Kyrylo Bezverkhov secured gold for their country, with Ana Filipe and Lenine Cunha from Portugal claiming silver. Fatma Damla Altin of Turkey, Alexander Lilliesköld of Sweden, and Mykhailo Bilenko of Ukraine secured bronze in their respective events.

Ukraine’s dominance extended to the Women’s 4x400m Relay, securing gold, while the men’s team from Portugal emerged victorious.

In the team events, Portugal topped the men’s standings, followed by Ukraine and Turkey. Ukraine led the women’s standings, with Turkey and France following suit.

With an impressive haul of 13 gold, 7 silver, and 4 bronze medals, Ukraine secured the top spot on the final medal tally, showcasing their dominance in the competition. Portugal secured second place with 9 gold, 7 silver, and 16 bronze medals, while Spain claimed third place with 7 gold, 2 silver, and 5 bronze medals.

Full results can be accessed from Virtus website.