Para climbing has been officially added to the 2028 Paralympic Games, approved by the IPC Governing Board. This inclusion brings the total to 23 sports, marking a historic debut for Para climbing. Supported by LA28, the sport aims to enhance the diversity of the Paralympic Movement and attract new audiences.
In a groundbreaking decision, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Governing Board approved the inclusion of Para climbing in the 2028 Paralympic Games. This addition brings the total number of sports to 23, making it a momentous occasion as Para climbing makes its debut, alongside the previously sanctioned 22 sports from January 2023. The IPC allows Organizing Committees to propose new sports for consideration, which is done at their discretion. The LA28 Organizing Committee thoroughly evaluated the sport’s potential before recommending Para climbing and Para surfing after a rigorous selection from 33 applications, demonstrating its popularity and feasibility for the upcoming games. IPC President Andrew Parsons expressed his enthusiasm, praising the sport for its speed and excitement, and noting that it will bring new audiences to the Games. This addition reflects the IPC’s commitment to a diverse Paralympic Movement, as Para climbing becomes the fifth new sport introduced in the last 12 years. Marco Scolaris, from the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC), thanked both the IPC and LA28 for their support and expressed the sport’s purpose of inclusivity and the chance for Para athletes to shine on a global stage. LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman highlighted Los Angeles’ diverse culture, making it an ideal host for its first Paralympic Games. He warmly welcomed athletes and fans of Para climbing, recognizing the sport as dynamic and promising. Para climbing has a rich history, with competitions starting in 2006. The IFSC has fostered a vibrant community, with athletes from 27 countries competing annually, leading up to the prestigious Para climbing World Championships. The LA28 Paralympic Games will showcase an impressive lineup of 23 sports, including Blind football, Boccia, and Wheelchair basketball. This vast variety reflects a growing recognition of adaptive sports, emphasizing inclusion and diversity within the sporting landscape.
The inclusion of Para climbing in the 2028 Paralympic Games marks a significant milestone in the evolution of adaptive sports. With the IPC allowing proposals for new sports, the process emphasizes evaluation based on popularity, feasibility, and the sport’s history, which has seen its competitions thrive since 2006. This decision arrives amidst a backdrop of increasing acceptance and celebration of diversity within sports, particularly for athletes with disabilities.
The IPC’s approval for Para climbing to debut in the LA28 Paralympic Games reflects a significant step towards inclusivity in sports. With a record number of sports vying for a spot, this decision showcases the evolving landscape of the Paralympics, driven by a desire for diversity and engagement. Athletes can now share their incredible skills on an esteemed world stage, fostering a deeper appreciation for adaptive sports.
Original Source: www.ifsc-climbing.org
