About the event
The Virtus Oceania Asia Games 2022 was an international multi-sport event held in Brisbane for elite athletes with intellectual impairment. It was the inaugural regional event in the Oceania/Asia region.
More than 700 international athletes and officials attended the OA Games. They showcased their skills and abilities while celebrating the spirit of inclusivity and sportsmanship.
Competitors were also able to use the OA Games as a platform to gain para sport classification and reach further representative honours, including competing at the Paralympics Games. Many of these opportunities are not currently available for athletes of some developing nations competing at the OA Games.
Did you know?
- 2022 was the year the first regional Virtus Oceania/Asia Games were held.
- 2 to 3% of the world’s population have an intellectual impairment (WHO Disability Report, 2011).
- 27 countries participated in the OA Games 2022.
Key event moments
The OA Games showcased many amazing personal accomplishments across the event. This was captured by an athlete’s account of their memorable experience at the OA Games:
'Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me this memorable opportunity. I was amazed by the outstanding support I have received, which has motivated me to give the best of myself for the games. This event has contributed to my personal growth. The smiles and happy faces I have encountered was the greatest reward during this short journey filled with surprises.'
Inclusion remained at the forefront of the OA Games. This was highlighted by the presence of athletes of all abilities from several countries for the very first time:
- Solomon Islands
- Fiji
- Republic of Palau
- Maldives.
Event impact
The OA Games left a lasting impact on the community, raising awareness about the abilities of all participants while promoting a more inclusive society. The OA Games:
- inspired a new generation of athletes with intellectual impairments to pursue their sporting dreams and reach their full potential
- inspired and captivated audiences, showcasing the extraordinary talents of these individuals
- drove social change to challenge perceptions and create greater awareness and understanding of the ability of people with intellectual impairment.
Legacy
Through the OA Games the Australian Government continues its commitment to support an inclusive and accessible Australian society, where all people can fulfil their potential.
A national community engagement program was developed to promote awareness of inclusive sport, and the beneficial economic, social, health and community wellbeing outcomes it provides.