Winchester Sport & Leisure Park recently hosted an event that saw over 200 competitors take part in individual sports activities with the aim of having fun and beating their own personal achievements. Winchester Paralympic Personal Bests is all about empowering people with learning disabilities, autism and physical disabilities to realise and fulfil their potential. From 33 participants in 2012, this year the event attracted 215 people from the Winchester district and surrounding areas to join in on a day full of sports activities.
Volunteers from Cardo spent the day out in the sun supporting the rugby activity, encouraging competitors to take part, engage and compete in various rugby drills. Cardo also sponsored individual activity trophies which were awarded to participants who showed the most enthusiasm and commitment to each activity during the day.
The event, organised by Winchester City Council, in partnership with Winchester Go LD, Everyone Active, and the University of Winchester, was a great success, with triumphant award winners being presented with their trophies by the Mayor of Winchester and Olympic gold medallist Maise Summers-Newton.
Betty Chadwick, CEO of Winchester Go LD, expressed her gratitude for the success of the event, stating,
“What a brilliant day you all gave us yesterday – so many smiles, joy and laughter from the participants – and so much engagement with all the different sports. The energy and enthusiasm from both volunteers and participants was amazing. No wonder the Para PBs is the main event that our Winchester Go LD members look forward all year. Our volunteers make the event so special and so successful – thank you all for your part in making it great.”
Through partnership and community collaboration, Cardo are committed to making a positive impact, supporting initiatives that promote inclusion and wellbeing.