A New Chapter for Inclusive Sports in the Province

The inaugural Provincial Tournament ‘Leave your Mark’ is set to take place this Friday, May 23rd, at the ‘Pedro Presti’ property. This event is specifically designed for athletes with disabilities, offering them a platform to showcase their talents in athletics, boccia, and table tennis. The tournament emphasizes not only competition but also the values of sharing, inspiring, and personal growth through sports.

‘Leave Your Mark’: A Motto of Inclusion and Respect

The motto Leave Your Mark originated in 2024,becoming the guiding principle for various events organized by the Ministry of Sports aimed at promoting sports for individuals with disabilities. This initiative champions respect, commitment, and joy, with a strong focus on inclusion and rebuilding social connections. the tournament embodies these values, providing a supportive environment for athletes to excel.

More than Just a Competition: Sharing, Inspiring, and Growing

Mariana Luberriaaga, a key figure in Sports for People with Disabilities and Elderly People at the Ministry of Sports, emphasized the importance of the tournament. This tournament is an opportunity for each of the participants to leave their mark, their footprint, not only on the track, in the field, on the court, but also in their hearts and those who accompany daily in each training, she stated.

In this tournament we want to revalue the passage, the footprint, the launch, and the play of each participant. It is indeed not just about competing, but about sharing, inspiring and growing. The event aims to promote participation, effort and personal overcoming through sport.

Mariana luberriaaga, Ministry of Sports

The focus extends beyond winning; it’s about celebrating each athlete’s journey, their dedication, and their ability to inspire others. This approach aligns with the growing global movement towards inclusive sports, which recognizes the importance of providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate and thrive.

The Impact of Inclusive Sports: statistics and Examples

Inclusive sports initiatives are gaining momentum worldwide. According to a recent report by the World Health organization, participation in sports and physical activity can considerably improve the physical and mental well-being of individuals with disabilities. For example, organizations like the Special Olympics have demonstrated the transformative power of sports in fostering inclusion and empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities.

The ‘Leave Your Mark’ tournament is a crucial step in promoting similar opportunities within the province, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for athletes with disabilities.