Orkney’s 4th Parasport Festival - inclusivity and diversity at its best!

There were cheeky smiles all round as a group of children and young people tried a variety of sports during Orkney’s 4th Parasport Festival recently. 

The event offers children with physical disability, vision impairment, hearing loss or Down Syndrome the chance to try out rugby, athletics, climbing, swimming and kayaking. 

The Council’s Sports Development Officer, Elaine Harcus, said: “Thirteen children and young people, ranging in age from 6-14 years, made it along on the day and it certainly looked and sounded as though everyone was enjoying themselves! Lots of happy, smiling faces on everyone involved.” 

Elaine was joined at the Pickaquoy Centre by Community Sports Officer, John Cairns, seven Sports Leaders from Stromness Academy and representatives from sports clubs and instructors from the Picky Centre to assist the children and young people to take part and get the most from their experiences. 

Elaine added: “Thanks to everyone who helped in the planning stages and in the run up to the event, to the school staff for being so supportive - identifying pupils to sign up and accompanying them on the day - and to parents for completing registrations and allowing their children to join us. A special thank you to the fantastic coaches and volunteers from our local sports clubs who gave up their time to come along and deliver such great sessions for the children, we’re so grateful for your support as always. 

“All children and young people were given a flyer on the day providing information on how they can get involved in sports in their local community, and we’re continuing to work with local partners and organisations to increase and develop opportunities.” 

There was even a seated/wheelchair fencing demonstration and a visit from Ola the Orca, official mascot of the International Island Games 2025 being held here in Orkney! 

Comments from teachers who supported children to take part included:  

“The sports helpers were very kind, encouraging & inclusive. The child I supported loved the mascot visit.” 

“This is the 4th year I have attended the festival and every year the pupils who attend get so much out of the day. The instructors and coaches are fabulous with the kids, and they love taking part and meeting up with their peers.” 

Orkney’s 4th Parasport Festival was supported by Scottish Disability Sport, the Pickaquoy Centre, the Motability Scheme, Inclusive Orkney, the Council's Sports and Leisure team, local sporting club heroes from Orkney Rugby FC, Orkney Athletic and Running Club, Kirkwall Kayak Club, Orkney Amateur Swimming Club and sports leaders from Stromness Academy.