Games show the power and real joy of inclusion across Galway
Irish Wheelchair Association members from Loughrea, Tuam and Galway city joined more than 160 people with physical disabilities from across Ireland recently for the Fitness Inclusion Games, Ireland’s only inclusive hyrox-inspired event.
Hosted by Irish Wheelchair Association at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena, the Games feature a series of high-energy, adapted team challenges testing strength and endurance inspired by formats such as CrossFit and Hyrox but designed to be fully inclusive.
Now in its second year, the event highlights the ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing gyms, training and sport spaces but also showcases the possibilities when barriers are removed.
Noah Curley from Loughrea has been training in the gym for over a year and before the competition he was looking forward to the games.
"I'm a competitive person so I'm looking forward to it. I am hoping to do better because I've been training a bit so I'm looking forward to it. It's good to have a goal,” he said.
Minister of State for Disability, Emer Higgins, who opened the Games, said described the Fitness Inclusion Games as ‘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 and their support network of IWA staff and gym coaches,” she said.
“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,” she added.
The Games are part of IWA’s broader Fitness Inclusion Project, which has grown from a small pilot in Drogheda in 2022 into a national initiative, with programmes now running in locations including Navan, Tipperary, Galway and across Dublin.
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“What we’re seeing today is the result of a movement that is growing across the country,” said Declan Hamilton of IWA.
“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,” he added.