William Ellards Shatters World Record at Day-1 of the 2025 Toyota World Para Swimming Championships

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The 2025 Toyota World Para Swimming Championships kicked off yesterday in Singapore, marking the arrival of the first-ever World Para Swimming Championship in Asia.

S14 athletes (intellectual impairment class) will be competing across a number of events not just to win championship titles, but also to lower record marks.

 Day 1 brought thrilling races, new world records, and history-making performances.

In the Men’s S14 200m Freestyle, Great Britain’s William Ellard stormed to victory, setting a new World Record of 1:51.08.

“I feel really good. I was expecting to go a bit faster, maybe 1:50 point low 1:49 hoping, but I think I went out too quickly and didn’t. Just got to me a bit in my head, rather than thinking I thought that time, rather than the swim itself, so, yes, a good race to see happens to get gold. Bandeira was quite close there, best time is under the old world record as well, so it’s good to have someone quite close, and yeah, it’s just it’s been quite a chilled out year after Paris, so hopefully come up here next year, could function more freestyle. Campers, relax. Yeah, really good,” William, the Paralympic Champion from Paris 2024 told World Para Swimming.

Brazil’s Gabriel Bandeira touched second in 1:52.03, followed by Nicholas Bennett of Canada in 1:53.97. Bandeira reflected on his swim:

“I tried to swim as smoothly and efficiently as possible, without spending too much energy. I felt good in the water, was pleased with the result, and I’m confident it will be even better this afternoon.”

The Women’s S14 200m Freestyle, places were swapped between Paris 2024 Paralympic medalists and revenge were taken. A nail-biting battle between Poppy Maskill of Great Britain and Paralympic Champion Valeriia Shabalina (NPA) was staged in the fight to grab the gold. Maskill surged ahead in the closing stages to claim gold in 2:06.19, with Shabalina just 0.13 seconds behind. Britain’s Louise Fiddes secured bronze, marking her third consecutive world medal in this event, while Georgia Sheffield finished just outside the podium in fourth.

Maskill, flanked by her British teammates as she walked to her lane, delivered a career-defining performance:

“I’m in shock! I didn’t think I was going to win, but I saw her next to me and I just really wanted it so I tried my hardest,” Poppy said after clinching her first-ever individual world title.

“For the rest of this meet I’ll just try my hardest and see what happens – I just want to do well, aim for a couple PB’s if I can and hopefully a few more medals.”

Day 1 set the tone with records shattered, medals spread across nations, and the S14 class once again proving its place at the heart of Para swimming’s biggest stage.

Full results can be accessed from here.

‘United for Change’ Hosted By Virtus and Partners in Dominican Republic

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Virtus, in collaboration with the Dominican Paralympic Committee (COPADOM), CRESO, and the Americas Paralympic Committee (AmPC), proudly hosted “United for Change” as part of a landmark three-day Paralympic Sports Festival and Inclusion Fair in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from September 11–13, 2025.

The event brought together 153 accredited participants from 31 countries in the region, who engaged in high-level training on eligibility, classification, sports management, and leadership development led by Virtus experts.

Over three days, participants took part in sessions on eligibility and classification for athletes with intellectual impairments, delivered by Prof. Jan Burns MBE, Head of Eligibility at Virtus, alongside workshops in sports administration and management, led by Virtus Secretary General Barry Holman, Virtus Americas President Humberto Ferreira, and Patricia Giampa.

Prof. Jan Burns MBE highlighted the transformative nature of the gathering.

“It is a great privilege to be at the United for Inclusion event here in the Dominican Republic. Many thanks to the sponsors and organisers for creating such a groundbreaking event. We had over 153 delegates from 31 countries learning about eligibility and classification for athletes with intellectual impairments. The event is living up to its name, with all participants committed to ensuring that everyone—no matter their disabilities—has the opportunity to succeed in sport and in life.”

Participants from 31 countries in the Americas region are attending #UnitedForInclusion. Photo Credit: Americas Paralympic Committee

The significance of the event was further underscored by the presence of Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), who praised Virtus’ efforts and reaffirmed the IPC’s commitment to athletes with an intellectual impairment. Emphasising the global importance of increasing athlete participation, Andrew said,

“It is very important for me to be here today to be part of the history of the Americas, for Virtus and for II athletes. Athletes with an intellectual impairment exist and are important for the International Paralympic Committee and for the Paralympic Movement. They are a fundamental part of the IPC. We will continue working closely with Virtus to ensure more eligible II athletes can participate in more sports, across both the Summer and Winter Games.”

Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, with delegates at United For Change. Photo Credit: Americas Paralympic Committee

The program opened with a vibrant welcome ceremony and a special presentation from CRESO, and concluded with the Paralympic Sports Festival and Inclusion Fair on September 13, showcasing both the athletic talent and the inclusive spirit that defined the event.

Sharing the success of the #UnitedForInclusion event, Michele Formonte, CEO of Americas Paralympic Committee said,

“United for Inclusion has shown that when 31 nations come together with a shared purpose, inclusion stops being an ideal and becomes concrete action. Thanks to Virtus, today we take a giant step so that every athlete with an intellectual disability in the Americas can find a clear path to high-performance sport and, above all, to a life full of opportunities.”

By combining training, celebration, and collaboration, United for Change marked a milestone moment in the Americas. The initiative not only strengthened the capacity of National Paralympic Committees but also reinforced Virtus’ mission to expand opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairments, ensuring their rightful place at the heart of the global Paralympic Movement.

Virtus Is Delighted To Welcome ‘Project Inspire’ As The First Affiliated Member Organisation

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Virtus, the International Sport Federation for Athletes with an Intellectual Impairment, is thrilled to welcome our first Affiliated Member Organisation (AMO), Project Inspire.

Based in the United States, Project Inspire is a national non-profit organisation dedicated to creating meaningful sporting opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental impairments. Project Inspire will work closely with Virtus National Member Organisation in the United States of America – Athletes Without Limits to develop football/soccer opportunities for athletes with an intellectual impairment.

“We are honoured to become the first-ever Affiliated Member in Virtus’ history, leading the way for other organisations worldwide to follow. We want to thank the leadership and vision of Virtus and Athletes Without Limits for expanding these membership opportunities and making this milestone possible,” says Nil Vinyals, Co-founder of Project Inspire.

“This partnership officially sanctions the ‘Inspire Soccer League’ as the first domestically recognised league for athletes with an intellectual impairment in the U.S., and creates a pathway to international competition — including the formation of the first U.S. National Soccer Teams in history,” he further added.

Affiliated Membership is a new Virtus initiative designed to strengthen our global reach and deepen our impact. Affiliates are non-voting members, a new category which enables Virtus to work with a more diverse range of local, national and international organisations to advance our mission, creating inclusive and well-structured sporting opportunities for people with an intellectual impairments. This collaboration will help identify and nurture talent, provide clear pathways for athletes to develop their skills, compete locally, and progress to international competition.

Teams at the ‘Inspire Soccer League’ 2025. Photo Credit: Project Inspire

This year, Project Inspire kicked off the USA’s first year-long soccer competition designed specifically for athletes with an intellectual impairment — the Inspire Soccer League, on August 23rd at Colorado Springs Switchback FC’s Weidner Field.

“We are extremely excited to have Project Inspire as our first AMO. We have already begun exploring collaboration in competitions and in sharing educational and training resources to support their work,” said Marc Truffaut, Virtus President.

Virtus, together with Athletes Without Limits – Virtus members in the USA, will work closely with Project Inspire to further expand football opportunities in the U.S. and beyond.

Barry Holman, Co-founder and President of Athletes Without Limits, shared his enthusiasm:

“Having Project Inspire as a Virtus member will bring a unique voice and experience to our federation, while connecting them to over 90 other organisations worldwide that are working to increase opportunities and support for athletes with intellectual disability and autism. Project Inspire’s commitment to excellence, inclusion, and fair play will make them a model not only in the U.S., but internationally.”

“We are proud to partner in launching the first U.S. national soccer league specifically for athletes with intellectual disability and autism — and the first in the world to implement Virtus eligibility standards to ensure fair play across the league. The Inspire League will do just that: inspire players to reach higher, inspire communities to rally behind them, and inspire society to recognise these athletes as the elite competitors they truly are.”

By joining Virtus, Project Inspire becomes part of a global community committed to driving inclusion, expanding opportunities, and celebrating the achievements of athletes with an intellectual impairment. Together, we will grow the sport, share expertise, and inspire new pathways for participation and excellence.

Welcome to the Virtus family, Project Inspire — we can’t wait to see the Inspire Soccer League in action!

Virtus Welcomes Dr. Suzie Lemmey and Dr. Hadi Hadizadeh As Eligibility Managers

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Virtus is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Suzie Lemmey and Dr. Mohammad Hadi Hadizadeh as our new Eligibility Managers, strengthening our eligibility system for athletes with an intellectual impairment.

The Eligibility Manager role is central to the delivery of Virtus’ athlete eligibility process. Working alongside the Head of Eligibility and the Eligibility Committee, Suzie and Hadi will ensure that Virtus continues to uphold the highest standards of integrity, compliance, and athlete support.

Both Suzie and Hadi have been working with Virtus voluntarily and with athletes with an intellectual impairment for more than a decade now, and will be adding great value to the Virtus management team.

Suzie Lemmey

Dr. Suzie has been part of Virtus voluntarily for nearly a decade, playing an instrumental role in establishing the II2 group in 2016 during her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. She went on to contribute to the Eligibility Panel and, from January 2023, served as a Lead Eligibility Officer. She now steps into her new joint role as Eligibility Manager with a focus on building and maintaining the II1 and II2 groups, while also developing and delivering eligibility education.

Beyond Virtus, Suzie is a Senior Clinical Psychologist with the NHS in London, UK, where she works to promote inclusion for people with intellectual impairments and neurodivergent individuals. She also volunteers as an II Classifier with World Para Swimming, gaining first-hand insight into the impact of fair eligibility on athletes competing globally.

Outside of her professional life, Suzie enjoys long countryside walks with her German Shepherd, Storm.

“I’m delighted to be appointed, jointly with Hadi, as the Virtus Eligibility Manager. I’m looking forward to seeing what the next few years will bring us as we can dedicate our time and passion to this essential part of disability sport”, said Suzie.

Dr. Mohammad Hadi Hadizadeh

Dr. Mohammad Hadi Hadizadeh is a licensed psychologist with a PhD in Psychology, specialising in clinical assessment and sport psychology. Since 2016, he has supported athletes and individuals with disabilities through clinical practice, assessment, and applied sport psychology. He has served as an eligibility expert for his national federation, contributed to classification decisions, and previously managed the Sports Psychology Committee for the National Paralympic Committee.

His experience spans consulting for multiple para sports, including Football 5-a-Side, Track and Field, Judo, Rowing, Archery, and Tennis, where he emphasises mental resilience and performance optimisation.

Since 2014, Hadi has been a registered psychologist and, since 2018, has served as an International Intellectual Impairment (II) Classifier, as well as a member of the Virtus Eligibility Panel for II3. He brings deep expertise in evidence-based practice, ethical care, and assessment standards, ensuring fairness and consistency in athlete classification worldwide.

“I am dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and contributing to advancing assessment standards in the field. My work with Virtus will allow me to combine my expertise in psychology with my passion for sport and inclusion”, said Dr. Hadi.

Their responsibilities include advising on eligibility policy and best practice, managing eligibility panels, supporting athlete assessments, liaising with National Eligibility Officers worldwide, and ensuring compliance with the IPC Classification Code. They will also play a vital role in strengthening partnerships with International Federations to support eligibility processes across sports.

Their combined expertise will help ensure that athletes with intellectual impairments can continue to compete on a fair and equal basis, with opportunities to shine on the world stage.

Virtus congratulates Suzie and Hadi on their appointments and looks forward to the impact they will make in shaping the future of eligibility in sport.

63 World Records Broken at 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships

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The 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships in Bangkok will forever be remembered as a landmark moment in sport. Over the course of seven extraordinary days, the world witnessed absolute elite performances from athletes with an intellectual impairment and/with autism, proving once again that talent knows no boundaries.

A total of 250 athletes from 31 countries competed at Assumption University’s Aquatic Centre, rewriting history with every race. By the close of the championships, an astonishing 63 World Records had fallen — including three World Para Swimming Records.

The II3 competition class, for athletes with autism, delivered the highest number of records, underlining the incredible talent, determination, and competitive spirit within the category.

Day 5: Records Fall, Drama Unfolds

Day 5 was nothing short of spectacular. France’s Axel Parisot claimed yet another Virtus World Record, storming the II3 Men’s 800m Freestyle in 8:41.62 sec.

The Women’s 800m Freestyle produced high drama: Australia’s Amie Holwill set a record in heat 1 (9:45.45 sec), only for teammate Kate Wallington to eclipse it in heat 2 with 9:26.53 sec.

Two World Record Breakers, Minke (centre athlete in left photo) and Ella Hoye (centre athlete from right photo) from Bangkok2025

Japan’s Ayako Morishita continued her brilliant run, taking her second and third World Records in the II2 Women’s 800m Freestyle (12:50.41 sec) and the II2 100m Butterfly (1:29.03 sec).

Relays brought both excitement and emotion. Australia powered to victory with a World Record in the II3 Mixed 4x100m Medley Relay (4:30.33 sec).

In one of the most dramatic moments of the championships, the Japanese II2 Mixed 4x100m Medley Relay team touched first in record time (5:58.14 sec), only to face disqualification. Hours later, after a tense appeal, the team was reinstated — their joy uncontainable as they were crowned World Record holders.

Elsewhere, Denmark’s Marius Danielsen etched his name into the history books with a record-breaking swim in the II3 Men’s 200m Backstroke (2:25.63 sec). Australia’s Alexander Hejaij added yet another record in the II3 Men’s 100m Butterfly (58.78 sec).

And in a performance that stunned the arena, Ella Hoye, just 16 years old, smashed the II3 Women’s 200m Backstroke in 2:41.28 sec, bringing her tally to four World Records — two individual and two relay.

Day 6: Wallington Hits Double Digits, Yamaguchi Stuns Again

Day 6 belonged to champions rewriting history. Australia’s Kate Wallington cemented her place as one of the greatest stars of these championships, smashing the II3 Women’s 200m Breaststroke World Record with 2:54.25 sec. This marked her 10th individual World Record, alongside two relay records — a truly breathtaking achievement.

New Zealand’s Ian Chen joined the ranks of record-breakers, clocking 2:37.01 sec in the II3 Men’s 200m Breaststroke, while Japan’s unstoppable “Dolphin” Naohide Yamaguchi set both a new Virtus World Record and an S14 World Para Swimming Record in the II1 Men’s 200m Breaststroke with 2:18.27 sec.

Sixteen-year-old Ella Hoye was not finished yet, sprinting to victory in the II3 Women’s 50m Freestyle with a record 27.75 sec. South Africa’s Minke Janse van Rensburg delivered another electric swim, smashing the II2 Women’s 50m Freestyle in 33.23 sec for her fourth individual and fifth overall World Record.

The relays added even more sparkle: Australia’s II3 Mixed 4x100m Freestyle Relay team shattered the record with 3:59.70 sec, while Spain made history with their first World Record of the championships in the II2 Mixed 4x100m Freestyle Relay (5:09.57 sec).

(L-R) World Record Breakers, Japanese Men’s 4×100 Medley Relay Team, Yuuki Tsuboi, Anku Matsuda, Naohide Yamaguchi and Rei Kagose.

Japan closed the evening in style, as the II1 Men’s 4x100m Medley Relay team stormed to a new World Record and Para Swimming World Record time with 3:59.79 sec. But behind the triumph came a moment of worry. One Japanese swimmer had to be rushed to the hospital for medical reasons and missed the victory ceremony. We are relieved and overjoyed to share that he is now doing well.

What a championship — drama, emotion, and history in every splash.

Best Team, Best Female, Best Male and Best Support Staff award winners (L-R)

‘Best Female Athlete’ was awarded to Kate Wallington from Australia, while ‘Best Male Athlete’ was won by Axel Parisot from France. Australia also took the ‘Best Team’ award. Dave Harmen, Virtus Swimming Director, was awarded the ‘Best Support Staff’ award for his leadership and efforts that contributed hugely to the success of this championship.

A Championship of Legends

From teenage prodigies to seasoned champions, #Bangkok2025 showcased performances that will inspire generations. With 63 World Records shattered, including 28 in the II3 class, these championships have set a new global benchmark for sporting excellence and inclusion.

The legacy of Bangkok will not just be in numbers — it will be remembered as the moment the world saw athletes with intellectual impairment and autism rise as true icons of the sport.

Full results can be accessed from here.

Swimmers with Autism Continues to Shatter Virtus World Records at Bangkok 2025

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The 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships in Bangkok have officially entered historic territory. On Day 4 alone, swimmers shattered 13 Virtus World Records, bringing the championship total to a staggering 41 world records in just four days of competition. The pool at Assumption University continues to witness extraordinary feats of talent, determination, and inclusion.

Out of the 41 world records shattered so far at #Bangkok2025, an incredible 28 have come from the II3 competition class — where athletes with autism are competing. The II2 class, for athletes with an intellectual disability and significant additional impairment, has contributed 8 records, while the II1 class, for athletes with an intellectual impairment, has seen 5 records fall.

Morishita, Wallington, and Parisot Lead the Charge

Japan’s Ayako Morishita made her mark, storming to victory in the II2 Women’s 200m Butterfly with a Virtus World Record time of 3:18.51.

Australia’s unstoppable Kate Wallington added yet another title to her growing legacy, smashing the II3 Women’s 400m Medley in 5:24.29 and in the II3 Women’s 200m Butterfly with 2:34.03. Wallington’s haul now stands at seven individual Virtus World Records and eight overall, making her one of the most decorated athletes of Bangkok 2025.

Meanwhile, France’s powerhouse Axel Parisot continued his remarkable run, breaking the II3 Men’s 400m Medley record in 4:48.95 and in the II3 Men’s 100m Freestyle, clocking 54.13 sec, proving once again why he is one of the stars of this championship.

Relay Teams Shine Bright

Relay events were equally dramatic on Day 4, with teams around the globe stepping onto the record books:

Team Italy celebrated their first record of the meet in the II2 Men’s 4x200m Freestyle Relay, clocking 11:16.48.

Australia added another gold highlight with a Virtus World Record in the II1 Women’s 4x200m Freestyle Relay, finishing in 9:21.09.

A thrilling battle unfolded in the II3 Men’s 4x200m Freestyle Relay, where France ultimately emerged victorious with 8:44.90. Turkey, Italy, and Colombia also broke the previous world record in the same race, showcasing the incredible depth of competition.

The Australian II3 Women’s 4x200m Freestyle Relay team set the mark at 9:50.40, further extending the nation’s dominance in the pool.

Mattia Tononi (centre in left photo) and Minke Janse (centre in right photo) enjoy their podium moments with their fellow medalists.

Freestyle and Butterfly event records lowered

South Africa’s Minke Janse Van Rensburg added to her growing reputation, breaking the II2 Women’s 100m Freestyle record with 1:15.50.

Italy’s Mattia Tononi celebrated his second record of the championship, touching in 1:05.95 to set the II2 Men’s 100m Freestyle mark.

Australia’s Amie Holwill continued her sensational form, seizing her fourth overall record and second solo title in the II3 Women’s 100m Freestyle with 1:00.05.

Alexander Hejaij soared to his second solo and fourth overall record, shattering the II3 Men’s 200m Butterfly with 2:12.07.

In a dramatic finish, the host nation snatched the gold medal away from Japan in the 4x200m Freestyle by microseconds.

Thailand celebrates its first relay gold medal in the 4x200m Freestyle.

From rising stars like Morishita and Hejaij to seasoned champions like Wallington and Parisot, Day 4 showcased the depth and brilliance of athletes with intellectual impairment on the global stage. With 41 Virtus World Records already broken and more days of racing still to come, Bangkok 2025 is not only setting new benchmarks for competitive excellence but also proving the unshakable truth: ability knows no limits.

Follow Virtus on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated. Official results can be accessed from here. Watch the livestream on Virtus’ YouTube channel.

Records Keeps Tumbling at Bangkok 2025

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The momentum at the 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships in Bangkok shows no sign of slowing down. After an incredible 15 world records were broken in the first two days, Day 3 brought even more fireworks in the pool, with stars from across the globe continuing to rewrite history.

Axel Parisot and Kate Wallington Lead the Charge

French swimming sensation Axel Parisot claimed his fourth Virtus World Record of the Championships with a dominant swim in the II3 Men’s 1500m Freestyle, clocking 16:42.07.

Australia’s unstoppable Kate Wallington continued her record-breaking spree, earning her fourth and fifth Virtus World Records:

  • II3 Women’s 1500m Freestyle in 18:02.76, her favourite event.

  • II3 Women’s 100m Breaststroke with 1:20.88, further cementing her status as one of the standout athletes of Bangkok 2025.

New Stars Shine

Alexander Hejaij (centre) posing for photos with fellow teammates at #Bangkok2025

Alexander Hejaij announced his arrival in spectacular fashion, setting a Virtus World Record in the II3 Men’s 50m Backstroke with 30.85 in the heats. He then outdid himself in the finals, lowering the mark to an incredible 30.32 seconds.

Relay Glory

The relays added to the drama with two more Virtus World Records:

  • France’s II3 Men’s 4x50m Medley Relay team stormed to victory in the heats with 2:01.84.

  • Australia’s II3 Women’s 4x50m Medley Relay squad matched the feat in style, setting a new standard of 2:15.34.

Yamaguchi and Japan Make History

Winners from the II1 Men’s 4x50m Medley Relay team, Brazil, Japan and Hong Kong (L-R)

Japan’s superstar Naohide Yamaguchi delivered another masterclass, shattering not just the Virtus World Record but also setting a World Para Swimming Record in the II1 Men’s 100m Breaststroke, with a blistering 1:02.53.

The celebrations continued as the Japanese II1 Men’s 4x50m Medley Relay team touched the wall in 1:49.96, adding yet another Virtus World Record to their tally.

Day 3 proved once again why Bangkok 2025 is already being called one of the most memorable Virtus World Swimming Championships ever. From seasoned champions to new stars, every race is adding to the legacy of inclusion, excellence, and record-breaking achievement.

Records Tumble on Day 2 of Virtus World Swimming Championships in Bangkok

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The second day of the 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships in Bangkok delivered another wave of historic performances, with athletes breaking multiple world records and raising the bar for excellence among elite swimmers with an intellectual impairment.

South Africa celebrated its first gold medal of the Championships thanks to a sensational performance by Minke Janse Van Rensburg.

Minke Janse Van Rensburg (centre) is receiving her historic medal from #Bangkok2025 Virtus World Swimming Championship.

  • In the Women’s 200m Freestyle, Minke broke Virtus World Record twice in one day—first setting a new mark in the heats (2:51.20) before breaking her own record again in the finals to 2:49.81.

  • She also made history in the II2 Women’s 50m Butterfly, breaking the world record in the heats with 37.25 seconds.

Her outstanding display brought double victory for South Africa and firmly established her as one of the stars of Bangkok 2025.

Kate Wallington (centre), who thrashed four Virtus World Records at the #Bangkok2025

The II3 events were equally dramatic, producing a flurry of Virtus World Records.

  • Women’s 200m Individual Medley witnessed three record-breaking swims in a single day.

    • New Zealand’s Quinn Pike briefly held the title with 2:45.29 when she broke the record in heat no. 7.

    • Australia’s Kate Wallington then eclipsed it twice—first in the heat no. 8 (2:37.54), breaking Quinn’s record, before lowering it once more in the finals to 2:33.62.

  • Amie Holwill (GBR) joined the elite list of record-setters, powering to a new Virtus World Record in the Women’s 200m Freestyle (II3) with 2:12.43.

  • Emma Chantry (GBR) also left her mark by smashing the Women’s 50m Butterfly (II3) with a world record time of 31.14.

  • French star Axel Parisot claimed his second and third world records of the Championships—winning the Men’s 200m Freestyle (1:56.92) and then dominating the Men’s 200m Individual Medley with 2:12.63.

  • Team Australia added more glory in the relays, taking gold in the Men’s 4x50m Freestyle with a time of 1:45.80.

A Championship of Champions

With every session producing new benchmarks, the 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships is fast becoming a landmark in the history of para sport. Day 2 alone delivered at least eleven new world records, including the ones that were broken twice or thrice, showcasing the extraordinary depth of talent across all categories.

Athletes, coaches, and fans alike are celebrating not only medals and victories but also the spirit of determination and inclusion that defines Virtus sport.

Follow Virtus on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated.

Official results can be accessed from here.

Watch the livestream on Virtus’ YouTube channel.

Eleven World Records Broken on Opening Day of Virtus World Swimming Championships

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The 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships opened in grand style today at Assumption University in Bangkok, bringing together athletes, officials, and delegates from 31 nations for what promises to be a historic celebration of sport and inclusion.

The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests including Major General Osoth Bhavilai, President of the ASEAN Para Sport Federation, Paul Charnvit, President of Virtus Thailand, as well as Board members of Virtus and Virtus Asia.

Athletes proudly marched into the arena representing 31 nations: Australia, Brazil, Czech Republic, Chinese Taipei, Colombia, Croatia, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Macau, Malaysia, Mexico, Neutral Virtus Athletes, New Zealand, Poland, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, and the United States.

Synchronise swimming performance at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships. Photo credit: Virtus Thailand/SAIT

The opening ceremony reflected both local tradition and global spirit. Children with Down syndrome and intellectual impairment from a local school delighted the audience with a traditional Thai dance, followed by a rousing performance from legendary Thai pop star Tik Shiro. The festivities concluded with a stunning artistic swimming display by Thai athletes, showcasing the host nation’s rich cultural and sporting talent.

In his opening remarks, Barry Holman, Secretary General of Virtus, praised the athletes and the Thai organisers:

“This championship is about far more than medals. It is about celebrating excellence, unity, and the power of opportunity. Already this morning, seven world records have been broken — a remarkable testament to the talent, determination, and spirit of these swimmers. This event sets a new benchmark for Virtus competitions worldwide, from the exceptional venue and warm hospitality to the cutting-edge live-streaming technology. On behalf of Virtus, I extend our heartfelt thanks to Virtus Thailand and our valued sponsors who have made this possible.”

(R-L) Paul Charnvit – President of Virtus Thailand, Barry Holman – Secretary General of Virtus, Major General Osoth Bhavilai – President of the ASEAN Para Sport Federation, Robyn Smith OAM, Virtus and IPC Board member, Patrick Chan, Virtus Asia President. 

Paul Charnvit, President of Virtus Asia, emphasised the importance of the championship for the region:

“We are proud to provide a platform where athletes with an intellectual impairment can showcase their talent and inspire the world. With the support of the ASEAN Para Sport Federation, the Sports Authority of Thailand, and our venue partners, this championship is proof of what collaboration can achieve.”

Major General Osoth Bhavilai echoed the same spirit of inclusion:

“We are proud to witness athletes with an intellectual impairment being given the recognition and opportunities they deserve. This championship highlights not only athletic excellence but also the inclusive spirit that unites our region.”

With records already falling on the opening day and the stage set for more thrilling performances, the Bangkok 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships are shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of sport, inclusion, and human potential.

Virtus World Records Fall on Day One of #Bangkok2025

Day one of the 2025 Virtus World Swimming Championships in Bangkok saw a cascade of world records across the II1, II2, and II3 categories, with athletes not only rewriting history in the heats but also bettering their own marks in the finals.

In the II1 category, Japan’s Naohide Yamaguchi electrified the pool with a Virtus world record of 29.62 seconds in the 50m Breaststroke heats. He went on to lower the mark again in the finals with a sensational 29.02 seconds, underlining his dominance.

The II2 category brought another standout moment as Camino Martinez of Spain stormed to victory in the 400m Freestyle, setting a new world record of 6:01.93.  The South African women’s II2 team thrashed the Virtus world Record for the 4x100m Freestyle Relay with 6:09.42.

The II3 category produced a flurry of records. Axel Parisot (France) set the pace with a 4:10.05 Virtus world record in the 400m Freestyle, while Australia’s Kate Wallington not only claimed the women’s 400m Freestyle world record (4:34.87) but added another in the 50m Breaststroke (37.04). Reflecting on her milestone swims, Wallington shared:

“I’ve spent my entire swimming career criticising myself but today, all I am is proud.”

Fellow Australian Ella Hoye battled through illness to seize the 100m Backstroke Virtus world record in 1:12.57, saying:

“I felt horrible as I’ve been sick all week, but all the training I’ve done went to plan.”

Australia’s dominance continued with Morgan Hill, who broke the 100m Backstroke record in the heats (1:06.52) before lowering it again in the finals to 1:06.45. To cap off an extraordinary day, the Australian Men’s 4x100m Freestyle Relay team stormed home in 3:56.76, setting yet another world record.

Phakhawat Kumarasing landed the nation’s it’s first gold medal for Thailand 400m Freestyle

With records falling across every classification, the opening day showcased not only the depth of talent within Virtus sport but also the resilience, pride, and determination of athletes competing on the world stage.

Follow Virtus on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated.

Official results can be accessed from here.

Watch the livestream on Virtus’ YouTube channel.

 

Virtus Backs Robyn Smith To Continue Championing Inclusion On IPC’s Governing Board

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Virtus proudly supports Robyn Smith as she seeks re-election to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Governing Board, with elections to be held during the IPC General Assembly in Spetember 2025 in Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Robyn has served on the IPC Governing Board since 2021, bringing nearly four decades of leadership in inclusive sport. As CEO of Sport Inclusion Australia, a Virtus Board Member, and a member of the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee, she has been a strong advocate for equity, athlete voice and representation for underrepresented nations and regions.

Her work has extended across Oceania, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Middle East – helping build pathways for athletes to have opportunities to be included through sport at the highest levels, including the Paralympic Games.

Supporting Robyn’s re-election, Virtus President Marc Truffaut says,

“Robyn is an outstanding advocate for inclusion and representation. She listens, she acts and she brings the voices of athletes – including those with an intellectual impairment – into the heart of decision-making. The Paralympic Movement benefits from her humanity, her energy and her drive to ensure no nation or athlete is left behind.”

Talking about her experience and re-election, Robyn Smith says,

“It has been an honour to serve on the IPC Governing Board. If re-elected, I will continue working to strengthen equity, dignity and access across our Movement, so that inclusion is not just a value we talk about – it’s a reality in every region. I will always lead with Humanity at Heart.”

Learn More About RobynSmith – VIRTUS

The September elections will also decide the IPC President, two Vice-Presidents, three male Members-at-Large, three female Members-at-Large, and one Open Member-at-Large position.

Read the IPC’s official candidate announcement here: Candidates announced for IPC Governing Board elections in September