20 years ago, professionals in social medical establishments noted that adapted sports practice was not offered in the adult sector, “while they were doing it, as teenagers”, recalls Marie-Françoise Prigent. , a retired educator. “In 2001, Vannes hosted the French athletics championship for adapted sports and we thought it was a shame not to take part. We registered around forty residents of adult homes and the Vannes sport adapted association was then created. Marie-Christine Prigent, Elisabeth Boraud, Edith Lino and Jack Robert then took steps with Vannes sports clubs and several became partners. Today, athletics, table tennis, petanque, Breton dancing, Ruffier gym and judo delight some 100 practitioners. Something to delight the president, Anne-Marie Mousset, and all the other volunteers who are involved.
“A plus in their daily lives”
If athletics has been very successful for 20 years, the other disciplines are also popular. “We adapt to the evolution of our population and, over time, we move towards health sport”, observes Marie-Christine Prigent. However, competitions are possible, mainly in athletics and judo. Fourteen licensees from Vannes took part in the French adapted sport athletics championship last July. “Playing sports, taking part in competitions, it’s great for them in terms of conviviality and relationships between them, but it’s also a plus in their daily lives”, assures Marie-Françoise Prigent. As a witness, Olivia who comes with envy to athletics training on Thursday afternoon in Kercado. “It’s good to move, physically too, and I like all the exercises”, assures the young woman who appreciates the good atmosphere in the group. Fabrice is a faithful. He has participated in activities since the beginning of the creation of the association. “I like coming to athletics, it’s good to play sports but, there, it’s cold. I liked to do archery, in the heat, but there is more, ”he regrets.
More recognition
Often denigrated, adapted sport now has more recognition from the general public. “Recently, we have been talking about adapted parasport, a connection has been made with disabled sport”, appreciates Elisabeth Boraud. Another great satisfaction, the evolution of each thanks to the practice of sport. “Sometimes we have great surprises. In table tennis, for example, some people just pick up the ball at the start and one day manage to take the hit”. Perseverance ! And a highly invested framework, whether professional or voluntary. The health crisis cut short the momentum of all these athletes and the period, as for many, was complicated to live with. “They were so happy when it resumed,” says Marie-Christine Prigent.
Practice
Vannes Sport Adapté: 11 rue Jean-Marie Bécel, tel. 02 97 63 48 24 or 06 75 50 92 86 or by email [email protected]
