Leitrim competitors take part in National Fitness Inclusion Games celebrating ability
Three IWA Carrick-on-Shannon members joined over 160 athletes with disabilities at the Fitness Inclusion Games, a Hyrox-inspired event promoting inclusive sport ability.
Three members from Irish Wheelchair Assoication (IWA) Carrick-on-Shannon joined more than 160 people with physical disabilities from across Ireland on Thursday, May 7 for the Fitness Inclusion Games, Ireland’s only inclusive Hyrox-inspired event.
Dylan Farrell (20), from Dromod; Keanu McGee (19), from Mohill; and Fintan Smyth (20), from Ballinamore, all took part in the Fitness Inclusion Games in the National Indoor Arena in Dublin.
Hosted by Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA), the Games feature a series of high-energy, adapted team challenges testing strength and endurance inspired by formats such as CrossFit and Hyrox but designed to be fully inclusive.
Now in its second year, the event highlights the ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing gyms, training and sport spaces but also showcases the possibilities when barriers are removed.
Speaking at the event, IWA member Keanu McGee said: “The atmosphere here is amazing. Everyone is coming here to show their true abilities. The message is that you can do something if you put your mind to it, it doesn’t matter who you are.”
Emer Higgins, Minister of State for Disability, opened the Games. She said: “The Fitness Inclusion Games are a powerful example of what can be achieved when inclusion is prioritised in sport and physical activity.
“Events like this showcase talent, determination and community spirit of the athletes involved and their support network of IWA staff and gym coaches. It highlights the importance of continuing to think inclusion first and to strive as a society for accessible opportunities so that everyone can participate fully in active life.”
The Games are part of IWA’s broader Fitness Inclusion Project, which has grown from a small pilot in Drogheda in 2022 into a national initiative, with programmes now running in locations including Navan, Tipperary, Galway and across Dublin.
Declan Hamilton of IWA said: “What we’re seeing today is the result of a movement that is growing across the country. These athletes are not just taking part, they are pushing boundaries, building confidence and showing what’s possible when barriers are removed.
“The demand for inclusive fitness is there, and we hope to grow the programme with support. IWA wants to ensure people with disabilities can participate fully in their communities.”