The first day of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be celebrated through a free event on the Sunshine Coast where locals, of all abilities, can try wheelchair rugby and re-live the Opening Ceremony.
A Paralympics LIVE event will be held at the University of the Sunshine Coast‘s Sports Arena in Sippy Downs form 3pm on Thursday (August 29).
Local wheelchair sport club the Suncoast Spinners will be on hand to engage with fans.
Wheelchair rugby coach Damien Mortaud said the club was proud to be hosting the special event dedicated to wheelchair rugby and celebrating reverse inclusion with the come and try day.
“Come down and try out wheelchair rugby with our staff and members,” Mr Mortaud said.
“We welcome everyone through our inclusion program, including able or non-able persons.
“This truly is a fun sport, making people more aware of disability sports and celebrating our Paralympians,” he said.
The afternoon will include a broadcast of the Aussie Steelers’ first Wheelchair Rugby game, live from Paris at 7pm, as well as a screening of highlights of the Opening Ceremony earlier in the afternoon.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said Paralympics LIVE was an opportunity for the community to celebrate the Games and show support to local Paralympians and para-athletes.
“It’s truly remarkable to see so many talented individuals from our region showcasing their skills on the global stage,” Mayor Natoli said.
Event details:
- August 29: 3-9pm.
- The University of the Sunshine Coast’s Sports Arena, 32 Olympic Way, Sippy Downs.
- Wear closed-in shoes for the come and try event.
- Paris 2024 Paralympics Opening Ceremony highlights: From 3pm.
- Come and try wheelchair rugby and basketball, open to all ages and abilities: 3-5pm.
- Free face painting and cookie decorating: 3-5pm.
- Showcase wheelchair rugby game by Suncoast Spinners: 5-7pm.
- Paralympics LIVE. Aussie Steelers on the big screen: 7-9pm.
