By P. Chandra Sagaran
For the first time, four organisations including the Government had get together to organise the inaugural Perak Open Special Olympics Athletics Championship 2026 will be held at the Stadium Mini, SMK Gunung Rapat (Perak State Sports School) here on July 11.
Persatuan Penggerak Rekreasi Sejahtera Ipoh (PPRSI) in collaboration with Perak Community Specialist Hospital (PSCH) ,Special Olympics Perak and State Education Department have come forward to host the championship which caters for those with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and those with lower level of physical ability.
The sports development platform is specifically designed for these participants. For the ID category, the events are 100 Metre Sprint, Long Jump, Shot Putt and 4 x 100 Metre Relay.
While ID with Lower Physical Ability category they will compete in 50 Metre Sprint, Standing Long Jump, Softball Throw.
PPRSI Chairman Shanker Retinam said: that they hope the championship will create greater opportunities for athletes with special needs to grow,develop and showcase their full potential.
“It is also to encourage parents to bring out their children instead of limiting them in the house.The event is expected to attract 500 athletes from the ages 8 to 16. So far some 350 participants had confirmed their participation including from Pahang, Penang,Putrajaya and Selangor. The closing date is July 5 as the maximum number we accommodate is 500,” he added.
The PCSH Physiotherapy Team would conduct an aerobic warmup session before the competition begins. This is to energize participants, enhance their readiness for competition and promote a positive and enthusiastic atmosphere throughout the event.
PSCH’s CEO Nicholas Chan pointed out the hospital believes healthcare extends beyond treatment and must also encompass prevention, education and community support.