Social inclusion the big winner at the 2022 Virtus Oceania Asia Games

The Oceania Asia Games 2022 leaves a lasting legacy.

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Photo courtesy of Sport Inclusion Australia; Photo Credit: Russell Freeman Photography

The Virtus Oceania Asia Games 2022 were built on the vision of being a ‘world included through sport’. This vision flourished through the voices and talents of the 600+ elite athletes and officials in attendance.

The event is an important platform for elite athletes in our region with an intellectual impairment. It allowed participating athletes the same opportunity to compete on the world stage as athletes without disability and showcase their dedication, perseverance and sporting talent.

For many athletes, it was a tournament of firsts:

  • their first time representing their country
  • their first time travelling internationally
  • their first time winning a medal
  • and importantly, their first time being heard

One medallist described the feeling of representing their country at the Virtus Oceania Asia Games 2022.

“It’s amazing! It’s the best thing I could ever be a part of, left me in tears standing up there.”

The Games also welcomed four new Virtus national members:

  • Solomon Islands
  • Fiji
  • Republic of Palau
  • The Maldives

Expanding the reach of Virtus into these nations allows the Virtus OA Games 2022 momentum to continue and increase opportunities.

The Virtus Oceania Asia Games 2022 wrapped up after inspiring performances from all competitors. The Games were hosted in Brisbane from 5-11 November 2022, the first Virtus Regional Games held in the Oceania Asia region.

Australia excelled with an impressive 94 gold medals – providing exciting prospects in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games.

The Australian Government is proud to have supported the Virtus Oceania Asia Games 2022 and congratulates all athletes on their achievements.

Catch more of the action next year as the World Transplant Games and FIFA Women’s World Cup come to Australian soil in 2023. To find out more about upcoming major sporting events, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care Sports webpage.

 

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