Despite Ecuador’s National Paralympic Committee (NPC) having only been established in 2013 they are due to host Ecuador Open Para-Athletics Championships from May 23 to 24 in the town of Latacunga.

With  IPC sanctioned meeting in less than seven weeks, the education programme, which was the first to be held in Spanish, was designed to help to prepare 30 officials.

The course was led by American Richard Robert, who believes the programmes are vital in helping to establish fledgling NPC, like Ecuador, aiding both the countries officials and athletes.

“By enhancing and improving the athletics officials’ skills in IPC rules, we improve the quality of para-athletics events in that country, many will become leaders and act as track, field and call room referees,” Robert said.

“As National Committees organise and grow, the IPC education programmes will provide the technical knowledge to help them flourish and develop their pools of para-athletes to qualify for events and compete internationally.”

Alongside the Agitos Foundation, which is designed to help create opportunities for people with impairments, the IPC have held several initiatives to help with the development of NPCs and para-sport within those countries.

The IPC are aiming to hold more Spanish speaking courses, with El Salvador next to benefit when they hold their first education programme in April, ahead of hosting a para-athletics event.

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