Discover the Thrill of Para Sports at “Aichi Para Sports PARK”
Since its inception in 2022, Aichi Prefecture has been hosting the “Aichi para Sports PARK,” an event designed to showcase the excitement of para sports and foster greater awareness about disabilities. This inclusive gathering invites individuals of all ages and abilities to participate in hands-on para sports activities and engage with inspiring athlete talk shows.
The event features prominent figures such as Aichi Para Sports Ambassador Kumiko Ogura, alongside accomplished athletes like para track and field star Shunya Takahashi, wheelchair basketball champion Yui Kitama, Deaf volleyball player Ryuichi Takahashi, and Deaf track and field athlete Takamasa Ishida. These individuals share their experiences and highlight the unique appeal of para sports.
Attendees can also enjoy a variety of additional activities, including a special performance by blind vocalist Wakanagi, a resident of Aichi Prefecture, and a captivating wheelchair dance routine by the Nagoya Vivace team. The event will also host PR booths for the Asian Games, Asian Para Games, and the upcoming Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics. Don’t miss this chance to be part of an unforgettable experience.
Event Details: Date and Time
Mark your calendars for Saturday, february 22, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location
The event will take place at Dolphins Arena (aichi Prefectural Gymnasium), First Stadium, located at 1-1 Ninomaru, Naka-ku, Nagoya.
Event Highlights (Planned)
(1) Para Sports Activities
Participants can try their hand at wheelchair basketball, para-badminton, boccia, and walking football.
(2) Stage Programs (Main)
| Activity | Scheduled Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Ceremony | 10:20-10:30 | Enjoy a wheelchair dance performance accompanied by Wakanagi’s soulful singing. |
| Special Performance | 13:05-13:20 | |
| meet Uzumin, the Asian Para games mascot | 10:30-10:40 | Uzumin will make a special appearance to promote the Asian Para Games. |
| Athlete Talk Show | 11:00-11:30 | Four para-athletes will share their stories and the allure of para sports. |
| Para Sports Exhibition by Aichi Ambassador | 13:30-14:15 | Kumiko Ogura, Aichi para Sports Ambassador, will participate in para sports activities on-site. |
| Ambassador and Athlete Panel Discussion | 14:30-15:00 | Kumiko Ogura and fellow athletes will discuss the impact and future of para sports. |
| height:12%; width:auto”>Welcome Message from Hideaki Omura, Governor of Aichi prefecture | 15:03-15:05 | ― |
| Deaflympics Promotion Stage | 15:20-15:40 | Discover the key attractions of the Deaflympics as we gear up for the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics, set to take place this November. |
(3) Interactive booth Exhibitions
Engage in virtual sports simulations (para-alpine, para-nordic, etc.), learn about the Asian Games and Asian Para Games, explore Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics promotions, experience mobility aids, and try prosthetic limb demonstrations.
(4) Additional Activities
・A food truck will be stationed in the plaza on the east side of the gymnasium.
-Complete the quiz on the flyer by visiting three rally points within the venue and receive a complimentary gift (limited to the first 1,000 participants).
4 Participation Costs and Details
Entry is free (attendees are responsible for their own transportation costs), and no prior registration is necessary.
5 Event Website and Social Media
Access the details via the provided link or scan the QR code below.
X (formerly Twitter) account https://x.com/aichipara
6 Accessibility and Support Services
・Assistance from guides, volunteers, and sign language interpreters will be available throughout the event.
・Wheelchair users can fully participate in competition experiences and programs.
7 Event Organizer
Aichi Prefecture
8 Supporting Organizations
Toyota Motor Corporation, Nippon Life Insurance Company, Matsumoto Prosthetics Manufacturing Co., Ltd.,Suntory Holdings Ltd., Nippon Fukushi University, Kinjo Gakuin University, Japan Educational foundation HAL Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture Social Welfare Council, Aichi Prefecture Disabled Sports Instructors council, Aichi Sports Association, Aichi Hearing Impaired Association, Japan Ski Federation for the Disabled, Tokai-hokuriku Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Aichi Boccia Association, Wheelchair Dance Nagoya Vivace, Aichi Sports Innovation Consortium “AiSIA” Secretariat
9 Contact Information
Aichi Paraspo PARK Secretariat (managed by Shinto Tsushin Co., Ltd., a subcontractor for prefectural projects)
TEL 052-957-3925 (available weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
[Reference] Profiles of Featured athletes
[Aichi Para Sports ambassador]
Kumiko Ogura
Biography
In 2002, Kumiko clinched the singles title at the All Japan Badminton Championship.
Transitioning to doubles, she secured 5th place at the Beijing Olympics and achieved five consecutive victories at the All Japan badminton Championships.
Retiring in 2010, she now shares her passion for sports through badminton, appearing on TV programs, providing commentary, delivering lectures, and coaching children.
Since April 2024, she has served as the president of the Japan Air Badminton Federation, dedicating efforts to promote and enhance air badminton.
[Stage Guest]
Wakana-san
Biography
A resident of Aichi Prefecture,Wakana has been blind since birth.She began her musical journey in the 5th grade of elementary school, releasing single CDs, albums, and books.
She has also appeared on 24-hour TV (Ch
Wakagisa, a multifaceted talent, has made significant contributions to both the arts and wellness sectors. Recognized for her extraordinary performances,she was honored with the Audience Award at the prestigious Gold Concert and the Toyota City Cultural Promotion Foundation Cultural Newcomer Award. Her dedication extends to traditional practices, where she offers her singing at local shrines. Additionally,she hosts the monthly radio show “Wakagisa no Nikkori Time” on FM Toyota RADIO LOVEAT,connecting with listeners across the region. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Wakagisa is a certified massage therapist, shiatsu practitioner, and massage specialist, seamlessly blending her passion for music with her commitment to holistic health. She actively engages in nationwide concerts and educational lectures while pursuing her dream of competing in the Paralympic Games in track and field.
[Featured Performer]
wheelchair Dance Nagoya Vivace
Established in 2014,this dynamic group evolved from its predecessor,the NPO Japan Wheelchair Dance Sports Federation Nagoya City Branch. Based in Nagoya, the ensemble brings together wheelchair and standing dancers of diverse ages, abilities, and genders. Their inclusive approach has made them a sought-after act at events nationwide,showcasing the power of dance to unite people.
[Paralympic Athlete]
Shunya Takahashi
Specializing in track and field javelin throw for athletes with upper limb disorders,shunya represents toyota Motor Corporation. His extraordinary track record includes a 6th-place finish at the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships, an 8th-place ranking in 2023, and another 6th-place achievement at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships. He is set to compete in the Paris 2024 Paralympics, aiming for a podium finish.
[Paralympic Athlete]
Yui Kitama
A standout in wheelchair basketball, Yui is affiliated with Nippon Life Insurance Company. Her career highlights include clinching the championship at the 2010 Asian para Games, securing 2nd place in both the 2014 and 2018 editions, and finishing 6th at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Her resilience and skill continue to inspire aspiring athletes.
[Deaflympics Athlete]
Ryuichi Takahashi
Representing Toyota Industries Corporation, Ryuichi excels in Deaf Volleyball. his notable achievements include a 7th-place finish at the 2017 Summer Deaflympics and an 8th-place ranking in the 2022 edition. His dedication to the sport highlights the growing recognition of Deaflympics as a platform for excellence.
[Deaflympics Athlete]
Takamasa Ishida
A hammer throw specialist,Takamasa is associated with EY Japan. His career milestones include a 4th-place finish at the 2013 Summer Deaflympics, a bronze medal in 2017, and a gold medal at the 2022 Summer Deaflympics. His journey exemplifies perseverance and the pursuit of greatness in athletics.
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This detailed schedule and description outline an engaging and inclusive event promoting para sports, the asian Para Games, and the upcoming Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics. The event features a variety of activities, performances, and exhibitions designed to raise awareness and foster participation in para sports. Here’s a summary of the key components:
Event Highlights
- Stage Programs
– special Performance: 13:05-13:20
– Meet Uzumin: 10:30-10:40 (Asian Para Games mascot appearance)
– Athlete Talk Show: 11:00-11:30 (Insights from para-athletes)
– Para Sports Exhibition: 13:30-14:15 (Led by Aichi Para Sports Ambassador Kumiko ogura)
– Panel Discussion: 14:30-15:00 (Focus on the future of para sports)
– Welcome message: 15:03-15:05 (From Aichi Governor Hideaki Omura)
– Deaflympics Promotion Stage: 15:20-15:40 (Highlighting Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics)
- Interactive Booth Exhibitions
– Virtual sports simulations (para-alpine, para-nordic, etc.)
– Information on the Asian Games and Asian Para Games
– Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics promotions
– Mobility aid and prosthetic limb demonstrations
- Additional Activities
– Food truck on the plaza
– Quiz rally with complimentary gifts (first 1,000 participants)
Participation Details
- Cost: Free (attendees cover transportation)
- Registration: Not required
Accessibility and Support
- Guides, volunteers, and sign language interpreters available
- Full participation for wheelchair users
Organizers and Supporters
- Organizer: Aichi Prefecture
- Supporting Organizations: Toyota Motor Corporation, Nippon Life Insurance Company, matsumoto Prosthetics Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Suntory Holdings ltd., and others
Featured Individuals and Groups
- Kumiko Ogura (Aichi Para Sports Ambassador)
– Former badminton champion and current advocate for para sports and air badminton.
- Wakana (Stage Guest)
– A blind singer and musician from Aichi Prefecture, known for her soulful performances and contributions to wellness.
- wheelchair Dance Nagoya Vivace
– A dynamic dance group promoting inclusivity through wheelchair and standing dance collaborations.
Contact Information
Aichi Paraspo PARK Secretariat
📞 052-957-3925 (Weekdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.)
This event is a fantastic opportunity to learn about para sports, engage with athletes, and enjoy performances while supporting inclusivity and accessibility in sports. 🎉
