Makhosini Hlongwane
Bukhosi Mangena Sports Correspondent
THE Local Organising Committee (LOC) of this year’s National Paralympics Games to be hosted by Matabeleland South has moved the tournament forward by five days from March 31 to April 4.
The games had initially been slated for April 5-9, but the dates were moved at the general managers’ assembly held in Gwanda from February 3-6, with LOC chairman Abiniel Museva saying the decision was informed by the shortened school term.
“We will be having our official launch this Friday and the minister (of Sport and Recreation Makhosini Hlongwane) will be our guest of honour. We have also changed the dates of the games after the general managers’ assembly noted that schools are now closing earlier than expected,” said Museva.
Facilities for the games are in the process of being renovated, with the main venue Pelandaba Stadium getting a major facelift.
The LOC needs up to $300,000 to successfully host the games and has appealed to well wishers to support their fundraising efforts.
Six sporting disciplines will be contested over if at least four provinces field athletes in each event.
The disciplines are netball (deaf), 5 aside football (intellectually challenged), football (deaf), athletics (visually impaired), basketball (wheelchair) and tennis (wheelchair).