Asian Para Games

History and development

The event evolved from earlier regional disability sport events and was established to align Asia's para-sport calendar more closely with the wider Paralympic movement. The first edition under the current name was held in Guangzhou, China, and subsequent editions have continued the pattern of hosting para-sport competitions at a continental level, often using facilities and organisational frameworks associated with the able-bodied Asian Games.

Format, sports and classification

The programme includes many of the same disciplines seen at the Paralympic Games, adapted where needed for different impairment groups. Typical sports include:

• Athletics and swimming
• Wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis
• Para table tennis and para badminton
• Powerlifting and shooting

Competitors are classified according to the nature and severity of their impairment so that athletes with similar functional abilities compete against one another. Classification covers physical, visual and intellectual impairments depending on the sport.

Significance and impact

The Asian Para Games serve several purposes: they provide a high-profile competitive pathway for Asian para-athletes, help national disability-sport programmes develop, and raise public awareness about disability and inclusion through sport. Performances at the Games can influence athlete selection and preparation for the Paralympic Games.

Distinctions and notable facts

Although closely linked in timing and place to the Asian Games, the Asian Para Games are separate events with their own governing structures and qualification systems. They form an important part of the international para-sport calendar in Asia and are a key mechanism for promoting competitive opportunities, accessibility and sporting development for athletes with disabilities.