Recreation organizations came together in Niverville, Manitoba for the Accessible Sport Connection Manitoba Expo, which aimed to showcase how sports can be made accessible to individuals living with disabilities. This year’s event was the first time it was held outside of Winnipeg, allowing for a broader audience to be reached. The executive director of ASC Manitoba, Kirby Cote, emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activities with friends and family. One participant, Peter Tonge, who is a fan of wheelchair fencing, highlighted the enjoyment and competitiveness of the sport, as well as the sense of progress he feels while learning it.
Tonge also expressed a desire for more individuals to join wheelchair fencing through Fencing Manitoba, as currently, there are only three participants in the program. The ASC Manitoba board member, Spencer Lambert, showcased an accessible electric bike he had designed as part of a college engineering technology course at the expo. Lambert hopes to inspire others to create their own adaptive equipment instead of relying solely on store-bought options. The event provided a platform for individuals with disabilities to explore new activities in a supportive environment, helping them overcome fears of trying something new.
Cote emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming space where individuals with disabilities can discover and participate in various activities. The expo was described as a “choose-your-own-adventure” space where participants could explore different options with the support of the organizers. The event served as an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to discover new interests and connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and belonging. By expanding the reach of the expo outside of Winnipeg, ASC Manitoba aims to create more inclusive opportunities for individuals living with disabilities to engage in sports and physical activities.
The event also highlighted the innovative solutions that individuals like Lambert are developing to make sports more accessible for people with disabilities. By showcasing his electric bike design, Lambert hopes to inspire others to think creatively and design their own adaptive equipment. This focus on innovation and empowerment reflects the commitment of ASC Manitoba to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities. Through events like the Accessible Sport Connection Manitoba Expo, the organization is able to raise awareness and promote the importance of providing accessible sports opportunities for all members of the community.
Overall, the Accessible Sport Connection Manitoba Expo serves as a platform for recreation organizations to come together and demonstrate their commitment to making sports accessible to individuals living with disabilities. By providing a space for individuals to explore new activities, connect with peers, and showcase innovative solutions, the expo helps to break down barriers and create a more inclusive community. Through their dedication and passion, organizers like Kirby Cote, Peter Tonge, and Spencer Lambert are working to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to engage in physical activities and sports, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life. As the event continues to expand its reach and impact, it will play a vital role in promoting inclusivity and accessibility in the world of sports and recreation.
