With only two years until the Aichi Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games, the organising committee held an event on October 12 to celebrate progress so far and unveiled the name of the official mascot to the public.
The mascot’s name is “UZUMIN” and is based on the words “Uzu” (whirlpool) and “Izumi” (spring), expanding on the concept of water that is mascot design is based on.
Explaining the name, the organisers state that it represents the hope that the athletes’ passion will converge like a “whirlwind” in Aichi-Nagoya, and that the emotion born there will emerge like a “spring” and spread throughout Asia.
Mr. Majid Rashed, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, sent his greetings to the organising committee of the Games, for the upcoming two years of preparation:
“There will be a spotlight on Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya which will show your region and city at it’s very best. Athletes from all over Asia will gather to experience your hospitality and I’m sure you will provide the best stage possible for them to showcase their talents. Over the next two years, when the task facing everyone feels huge, remember that these games are life changing. They show that we are all the same, that we all have One Heart”.
These will be the fifth edition of the games and will take place between 18 and 24 October. Between 3,600 and 4,000 Para athletes and officials from 45 nations are expected to participate.