Members of Irish Wheelchair Association groups in Dundalk and Drogheda were among more than 160 people from across Ireland taking part in this year’s Fitness Inclusion Games.
The event, hosted by Irish Wheelchair Association at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena on Thursday, May 7, is Ireland’s only inclusive Hyrox inspired competition for people with physical disabilities.
Participants took part in a series of adapted team challenges focused on strength and endurance, inspired by fitness formats such as CrossFit and Hyrox but designed to be fully inclusive.
Now in its second year, the Games highlight both the barriers many people with disabilities still face in accessing gyms and sports spaces, and what can be achieved when those barriers are removed.
Among those taking part was Dundalk’s Nicole Callan, who is involved in IWA Dundalk’s School Leavers programme. Nicole said she enjoys training for the event and regularly attends gym sessions twice a week.
“We go to the gym on Tuesdays and Fridays. It’s great fun. I really like doing weights in the gym,” she said.
This was Nicole’s second time competing in the Games.
“I really like it. I like everything about it,” she added.
Minister of State for Disability Emer Higgins, who officially opened the Games, praised the event and those involved.
“The Fitness Inclusion Games are a powerful example of what can be achieved when inclusion is prioritised in sport and physical activity. Events like this showcase talent, determination and community spirit of the athletes involved and their support network of IWA staff and gym coaches. It highlights the importance of continuing to think inclusion first and to strive as a society for accessible opportunities so that everyone can participate fully in active life.”
The Games form part of Irish Wheelchair Association’s wider Fitness Inclusion Project, which began as a pilot programme in Drogheda in 2022 and has since expanded nationally, with programmes now running in places including Navan, Tipperary, Galway and Dublin.
Declan Hamilton of IWA said the initiative continues to grow in strength.
“What we’re seeing today is the result of a movement that is growing across the country. These athletes are not just taking part, they are pushing boundaries, building confidence and showing what’s possible when barriers are removed.
“The demand for inclusive fitness is there, and we hope to grow the programme with support. IWA wants to ensure people with disabilities can participate fully in their communities.”
For more information check out www.iwa.ie/the-fitness-inclusion
