First edition of Asia Pacific Down Syndrome Federation Games begins

Mohan Natarajan from Pollachi, Coimbatore, was very excited to see his 12-year-old daughter take part in the roller-skating competition at the Asia Pacific Down Syndrome Federation (APDSF) games, 2026, on Thursday in Chennai.

The games, organised in association with Special Olympics Bharat, are aimed at bringing together athletes with Down Syndrome from across the Asia Pacific region to celebrate ability, determination and the spirit of sports. Participants took part in competitive sports such as skating, swimming, running, walking, shot put among others.

Noting that the inclusion of sports in children with disabilities has been an important addition, Mr. Mohan said, “The main reason is fitness, as children with Down Syndrome have lower immunity levels and tend to put on weight. Further, sports provide them a platform for socialising and improving communication as they meet people from all walks of life. Lastly, we want our child to shine and excel in society too.”

The first edition of the two-day international games, saw the participation of over 30 children from overseas from countries such as China, New Zealand among others, and 200 children from India.

Speaking about the initiative, Rekha Ramachandran, representative of the Indian contingent, said that there are age-wise categories and within that, there are categories based on abilities. “Through games, there’s so much communication, socialising and discipline. When you look at a person with Down Syndrome, apart from the extra chromosome, there is hypotonia (low muscle tone). They do have limitations, but don’t judge them through those limitations,” she said.

Wishing the best to the participants, Member Secretary, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu Meghanatha Reddy said, “Every child here is a champion. The very fact that you have shown up to participate makes you one.”