- Illustrative photo.
YANGON: Myanmar marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which fell on Tuesday (Dec 3), by organising sports events including the Para Games, a sports official told Xinhua.
The annual Para Games is sponsored by the Myanmar Paralympic Sports Federation, under the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, and this year coincides with the 5th National Sports Festival, set to take place in Naypyidaw.
The federation will participate in this festival to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Min Naing Oo, joint secretary of the federation, said Tuesday.
"During this festival, we will compete in four events: swimming, sitting volleyball, chess and athletics. A total of 142 athletes from six regions and states will participate," he added.
A victim of polio, 42-year-old Htet Htet Aye, is now a para-athlete specialising in athletics. She expressed her gratitude for the recognition of disabled athletes in Myanmar, emphasizing that recognising and awarding disabled athletes are crucial for promoting inclusion in the sports sector.
"Receiving awards honours our hard work and gives us a sense of accomplishment, demonstrating that we truly reap the rewards of our efforts," she said.
"Through sports, both my mental and physical strength have improved. As a disabled athlete, I have come to realize there is no need to feel sorry for myself," she added.
Another athlete, 23-year-old Naw Laular Win, encouraged others with disabilities. "I truly believe, we can still contribute to our country through sports despite our disabilities."
"A human is human, whether disabled or not. Don't stay at home, step outside, and we will see how many things we are capable of achieving," she said.
Aung Myint Myat, 32, a para swimmer, spoke of the experiences of participating in Asian and Asean events. "Over the past seven years, I have earned 34 medals in international competitions," he said.
"In my country, the government provides assistance based on achievements, and this support allows me to provide for my family. Although I have challenges with my legs, my hands are strong. So, I am focused to the best of my ability," he said.
"I never think of myself as disabled. We must focus on what we can do and use our strength to navigate life," he added.
"We are proving that although we may have physical challenges, we can still support our families and achieve great things. With determination, effort, and perseverance, everything is possible," he shared a message of motivation for others with disabilities. - Xinhua
