Dundalk and Drogheda competitors take part in National Fitness Inclusion Games

Members from IWA Dundalk and Drogheda joined more than 160 people with physical disabilities from across Ireland on Thursday 7 May for the Fitness Inclusion Games, Ireland’s only inclusive hyrox-inspired event.

Hosted by Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena, 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.

Nicole Callan from Dundalk is part of IWA Dundalk’s School Leavers programme. She competed in the Fitness Inclusion Games and really enjoys training for the competition also. “We go to the gym on Tuesdays and Fridays. It’s great fun.

“I really like doing weights in the gym.” This is Nicole’s second time at the games and she is really enthusiastic about the experience, “I really like it. I like everything about it.”

Minister of State for Disability, Emer Higgins, who opened the Games, 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.”

For more information check out www.iwa.ie/the-fitness-inclusion

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