With less than one year to go to the opening of the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games, the Chefs de Mission Seminar was held on November 18 and 19, 2021, and aimed to give a comprehensive introduction to the preparations of the Games.
The two-day seminar was held virtually and was attended by 44 Chefs de Mission from Asia’s National Paralympic Committees as well as future Games organisers who attended as observers.
Opening the Seminar, APC President Majid Rashed highlighted the importance of the Hangzhou 2022 Games in building the Paralympic movement in the region and helping achieve the APC’s vision to use para-sport to drive a more inclusive Asia.
He also praised the efforts of the organising committee (HAPGOC) who have worked tirelessly to ensure that Hangzhou is ready for NPCs and their athletes in just under a year’s time.
“We have all just witnessed some fantastic performances from Asian athletes in Tokyo but we know that there are many more outstanding athletes in our region who won’t get the opportunity to compete at a Paralympic Games. Hangzhou will give them the chance to shine on a huge platform, to show what they are capable of and to make their countries proud.”
“And in turn, their performances will have an impact beyond sport. They will help to build a more inclusive Asia as they make people think differently about people with an impairment,” Rashed said.
‘Games with Chinese Style, Zhejiang Glamour and Hangzhou Flavour’
Ms. Zhang Haidi, President of HAPGOC, President of China Disabled Person’s Federation said:
“The Asian Para Games is the most prestigious Paralympic sports event in Asia and an important platform to showcase Asian civilization. I believe that under the strong guidance of APC and with the support of you all, we will be able to hold a fantastic sports and cultural event featuring Chinese Style, Zhejiang Glamour, and Hangzhou Flavour, creating a spectacular to give healthy and positive energy to Asia and the world.”
‘Emphasis on hosting safe & quality Games’
Liu Xin, Vice President and Secretary General of HAPGOC, and Mayor of Hangzhou remarked that important milestones have been reached in regard to the preparations with 19 venues essentially completed; 22 sports events confirmed and the official emblem and mascot unveiled.
“Since the Games’ hosting rights were granted to Hangzhou in August 2018, the organising committee has adhered to the concept of harmonious, persevering and sharing.
“We are confident that we are able to stage a safe and successful sports event, with emphasis on safety and delivery of quality Games. We promise to further strengthen the measures for Covid 19 prevention control to ensure safety competition.”
Mr. Xin informed that the HAPGOC will be conducting the inspection of the venues, facilities, etc. in the next phase of preparations.
The delegates were also given updates on the Sports and Doping Control, Competition & Training Venues, Accreditation, Classification, Medical Services, Ticketing, Athletes Village and Ceremonies, etc. during the two-day meeting.
The organisers shared that the Hangzhou 2022 will feature five more sports than the Indonesia 2018 Asian Para Games. A total of approximately 3,800 athletes are expected to compete in 604 events across 22 sports.
The test events for some of the sports are scheduled to take place soon.
