The HKPC&SAPD has launched its Project 2026 initiative ©HKPC&SAPD

The Hong Kong Paralympic Committee and Sports Association for the Physically Disabled (HKPC&SAPD) has launched a six-year development plan called Project 2026, with an aim to boost its Para-sport movement.

Project 2026 looks to drive the sports movement in Hong Kong by enhancing high performance, increasing participation of the physically and visually impaired, improving public awareness and strengthening stakeholders' involvements.

This initiative will cover the period of two Paralympic Games and two Asian Para Games, with 10 strategic goals identified.

The first of these include sustaining current elite sports performance and growing more sports to elite level.

Project 2026 also looks to establish effective and sustainable feeder training pathways, increase sport participation, develop more Para-sports and advocate exercise as part of life for the impaired.

It will also maximise promotion and publicity effectiveness, further engage stakeholders in Para-sport development, enhance the role of affiliates of HKPC&SAPD and contribute to Para-sport science and classification in Asia.

"Para-sport has become very competitive," said James Lam, chairman of the HKPC&SAPD.

"Formulating long-term strategic development plans enables the HKPC&SAPD to keep abreast of the times to meet challenges.

Boccia is one of the most successful Para-sports in Hong Kong ©Getty Images
Boccia is one of the most successful Para-sports in Hong Kong ©Getty Images

"Project 2026 represents the collective views of members of the Executive Committee and Subcommittees, coaches and secretariat staff after times of in-depth analysis and extensive discussion.

"The ten strategic goals and related action plans span from the grassroots all the way up to the elite level, in particular, broadening grassroots participation and recruiting novice athletes are of utmost importance."

The first phase of Project 2026 includes a regional training programme for boccia in six regions, while coaching will also be developed in the country's most elite Para-sports - badminton, table tennis and wheelchair fencing.

In collaboration with the Judo Association of Hong Kong, visually impaired participants will be included in able-bodied judo training over the next month.

HKPC&SAPD is also conducting a survey on physically impaired students in primary and secondary schools to understand their participation in physical education lessons.