Daisy Inclusive UK will host the Viathlon Games at Wavertree Sports Centre in July, an event which will celebrate the visually impaired.
Funded by The Primary Club – James Fund, a charity that provides sports and recreational facilities for the blind and visually impaired, the Viathlon will showcase a number of activities including swimming, tandem bike riding and guide walking and running.
Spearheaded by Daisy Inclusive UK CEO Dave Kelly, the Liverpool-based charity is aiming to capitalise on last year’s Paralympic Games to promote more engagement and participation in disability sports.
Dave, who went blind aged 30 in the early 1990’s, founded Daisy Inclusive UK in 2004 with the organisation helping vulnerable and disabled people and their families ever since.
“Just because an individual is visually impaired, it shouldn’t prevent them from taking part and enjoying physical activities,” said Dave.
“Participation in sport has numerous health benefits for people with disabilities by improving strength, co-ordination and cardiovascular fitness. In addition, it promotes mental wellbeing by reducing stress, anxiety and depression from isolation to inclusion and combatting loneliness.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the amazing athletic talent in Liverpool and the surrounding areas, which will hopefully benefit more people with disabilities to get in touch and benefit from our service.”
Everton in the Community has supported Daisy by volunteering to help participants with training, with the Blues’ official charity considered to be one of the Premier League’s leading community schemes.
“A huge thank you to The Primary Club for funding the initiative and Everton in the Community for their support with the training which has been invaluable,” added Dave.
“I was blown away by last year’s Paralympics in Paris, which was truly inspiring. Channel 4’s coverage of the Paralympic Games had a profound impact on viewers reception of disability according to a recent study, and we want to build on that positive mindset towards inclusivity.”
A specific date for the Viathlon will be confirmed in due course. We will be holding guide walking, tandem bike riding and swimming sessions throughout the coming months, with details to follow
For more information about the event and the services that Daisy provides, please contact info@daisyuk.com.
