Vacancy: Sport & Competition Manager

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Virtus is seeking a passionate and motivated sport leader to manage out global sport and competition programme – delivering exceptional events and driving growth and participation. Working closely with our membership, voluntary team and wider partners in sport, this is a rare opportunity to shape sport worldwide for the 2-3% of people who have an intellectual impairment.

This is a demanding role overseeing a diverse programme of more than 17 sports and the right candidate will have a flair for working with multiple stakeholders to achieve success.

Closing date: 10th July 2024

Interview date: 18-19 July 2024

Start date: September 2024

To apply, please use the online form. Recruitment companies are kindly asked not to contact Virtus as further adverts will not be placed.

Two New World Record And One Championship Record Set At Kobe 2024

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The World Para Athletics Championship in Kobe, Japan brought numerous celebratory moments for the Virtus family. Athletes with intellectual impairment once again commanded attention in various T20 and F20 events.

A thrilling race unfolded in the T20 Women’s 400m event featuring Deepthi Jeevanji from India and Aysel Onder from Turkey. Both athletes showcased their top form, but Deepthi claimed the championship title by a razor-thin margin, also setting a new world record with an impressive time of 55.07 seconds. Deepthi made history as the first athlete with intellectual impairment to secure a Gold medal for India.

Deepthi Jeevanji from India on the left and winners of T20 Women’s 400m on the right. Photo Credit: Kobe 2024

In the same event, Aysel Onder secured the silver medal with a commendable time of 55.19 sec, closely tailing Jeevanji in an exhilarating contest. Lizanshela Angulo from Ecuador clinched the bronze medal with a time of 56.68 sec, intensifying the event with a remarkable performance.

Sabrina Fortune of Great Britain dominated the Women’s F20 shot put event, not only clinching the gold but also setting a new world record with an astounding throw of 14.73m, showcasing her exceptional talent and dominance in the sport. Poleth Mendes of Ecuador secured the silver medal with a commendable throw of 13.90m, while Aleksandra Zaitseva (NPA) claimed the bronze with a distance of 13.01m, contributing to the competitive spirit of the event.

Poleth Mendes (ECU), Sabrina Fortune (GBR) and Aleksandra Zaitseva (NPA). Winner of F20 Women’s Shot-Put. Photo Credit: Kobe 2024

Brazil showcased prowess in the Women’s F20 Long Jump, with Zuleide Cassiano Silva securing the gold medal with a phenomenal leap of 5.80m. Debora Oliveira De Lima clinched the silver, adding to the nation’s glory with her impressive jump of 5.54m. Fatma Damla Altin earned the bronze for Turkey, soaring to a distance of 5.43m.

Winner of F20 Men’s Shot Put (left) and F20 Women’s Long Jump (right). Photo Credit: Kobe 2024

Muhammad Ziyad Zolkefli from Malaysia emerged victorious in the F20 Men’s shot put event, winning the gold medal with an impressive throw of 17.43 meters. Shane Luka Meissonnier (FRA) claimed the silver medal, while Jordi Patricio Congo Villalba from Ecuador secured the bronze.

Winners of T20 Women’s 1500m, Ilona Biacsi (HUN), Barbara Bieganowska-Zajac (POL) and Antonia Keyla Da Silva Barros (BRA). Photo Credit: Kobe 2024

Poland’s Golden Basia once again shines and adds another title to her tally. Multiple-time Virtus Global Games Champion and Four-time Paralympic Champion, Barbara Bieganowska-Zajac wins gold at T20 1500m with a new championship record of 4:27.36 sec. Antonia Keyla Da Silva Barros (BRA) secured silver while Ilona Biacsi (HUN) settled for bronze in the same event.

Poland’s Barbara Bieganowska-Zajac won gold at T20 1500m with a new championship record of 4:27.36 sec. Antonia Keyla Da Silva Barros (BRA) secured silver while Ilona Biacsi (HUN) settled for bronze in the same event.

Winners of T20 Men’s 1500m event, Sandro Baessa (POR), Michael Brannigan (USA) and Yuji Togawa (JPN). Photo Credit: Kobe 2024

Paralympic title-holder Michael Brannigan of the USA clinched the top spot, clocking in at an impressive 3:51.71 sec, establishing a fresh championship record in the T20 Men’s 1500m competition. Sandro Baessa from Portugal secured the second position, finishing the race in 3:55.84 sec, earning the silver medal. Meanwhile, Yuji Togawa from Japan secured the third spot, completing the race in 3:55.94 sec to claim the bronze medal.
Brazil’s rising star Samuel Oliveira (BRA) once again snatched the gold medal in the T20 Men’s 400m race from his fellow teammates by microseconds. Samuel clocked an impressive time of 47.73 sec and defeated Ecuador’s John Sebastian Obando Asprilla (47.84 sec). Muhammad Ammar Amman Nor Azim (MAS) closely followed them winning the bronze medal with a time of 48.16 sec.

Winners from Men’s T20 400m (left) and T20 Long Jump (left). Photo Credit: Kobe 2024

Two-time Paralympic Champion and multiple-time World Champion, Abdul Latif Romly from Malaysia stayed undefeated and secured another World title in T20 Long Jump. Romly covered a distance of 7.30m and defeated Ecuador’s Roberto Carlos Chala Espinoza. Jhon Sebastian Obando Asprilla secured the last spot on the podium with 6.84m.
Full results can be accessed from the Kobe 2024 website.
Most of these star athletes will be competing at the upcoming Paralympic Games, Paris 2024. While some will be making their debut appearance, many will be defending their world titles. Virtus wishes luck to all the athletes for their upcoming competition.

Virtus joins 100 Days To Go Celebration for Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

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More than 100 athletes with intellectual impairment are gearing up to compete at the 2024 Summer Paralympic Games, Paris 2024 from 27 August to 8 September across three sports: Athletics (T20 and F20), Swimming (S14) and Table Tennis (Class 11). Virtus is joining the #100DaysToGo countdown for Paris 2024 with the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

IPC launch a promotional film for Paris 2024 that challenges the perception versus reality of the Paralympics 

  • Launched on 100 days to go to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the advert celebrates the dedication and competitiveness of Paralympic athletes 
  • IPC makes advert available to all its media rights holders and member organisations for use as part of their pre-Games promotion 

To mark 100 days to go until the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has launched a promotional film that addresses the romantic stereotypes of what some people think the Paralympics represent versus the brutal reality of high-performance sport.   

Paul McCartney’s 1984 seminal song We All Stand Together is the soundtrack for the film titled ‘The Paralympic Dream’ which, like the original music video, features stunning animated scenes. 

The advert was developed by the IPC’s advertising agency adam&eveddb. The creative is initially set in a dream-like animated city of Paris where Para athletes run, jump, fence, and paddle, hand-in-hand alongside loveable singing plants and animals.  

However, the animated love-in and song is abruptly interrupted with the harsh realism of Paralympic sport as British Paralympic taekwondo athlete Amy Truesdale is kicked in the chest and crashes to the mat.  

As Amy climbs back to her feet and lands a blow on her opponent, the advert cuts to a stunning montage of outstanding sporting action from previous Paralympic Games. 

The film is being made available to the IPC’s media rights holders and members organisations to support their promotion of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. 

Craig Spence, the IPC’s Chief Brand and Communications Officer, said:

“With our Paris 2024 Paralympic promotional film we wanted to challenge the perceptions and stereotypes some people have of the Paralympic Games in the most fun and creative way possible.  

“For some, the Paralympics is an idyllic event where the athletes are carefree and just happy to be there. The truth is that Paralympic sport is highly competitive and, at times, pretty brutal. To compete at the Paralympics, you have to be a world-class high-performance athlete and we show this in the film through fast-paced sporting action. 

“We created this film because we are aiming for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games to attract record TV audiences and massive crowds of spectators. This film will be used by Media Rights Holders and IPC member organisations to engage new audiences in what will be spectacular and historical Paralympic Games this summer.” 

adam&eveDDB chose the Paul McCartney track for the advert because it has a loveable childlike quality that perfectly matches the idealistic world they were trying to create and then jolts them out of it in the most memorable way possible. 

Virtus sanctioned National Open Athletics in Yaoundé, Cameroon

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From April 23 to 27, 2024, Yaoundé played host to an event aimed at fostering the development of sports for athletes with intellectual impairment across Africa. This competition marked a significant step forward as Africa strives for the first participation of athletes with intellectual impairment at the Paralympic Games.

Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon were the two countries that participated in this groundbreaking event. Kicking off on April 23, athletes from Equatorial Guinea underwent psychometric tests, setting the stage for two days of thrilling competitions at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Omnisports Stadium in Yaoundé.

The heart of the event revolved around sprint races and short middle-distance races, including the 100m, 200m, and 400m for both men and women, as well as the 800m for women and 1500m for young athletes. Additionally, there were competitions in shot put and long jump for both genders.

In a fantastic atmosphere, athletes showcased their talents, displaying remarkable improvements in their performances. There was a palpable sense of determination in every series, the competition was a testament to the athletes’ dedication and resilience.

“This event’s impact reverberates far beyond Yaoundé. With the dream of seeing sports for the athletes with an intellectual impairment flourish in Africa, we extend our hand to African nations, Virtus leaders, and the International Paralympic Committee. Together, we can make this dream a reality,” said Jean-Marie Aleokol, President of Virtus Cameroon.

Adding to the spectacle, the National Institute of Youth and Sports in Yaoundé brought a special audience to enliven the ceremonies, while captivating choreographies adorned the opening ceremony.

As medals were distributed and champions celebrated, the event underscored the growing importance of sports for athlete with an intellectual disability in Africa. It is a beacon of hope for the future, signalling the possibility of greater participation in the Virtus Global Games and the Paralympic Games.

First Ever Virtus Judo Training Camp Concludes in Japan

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For the past two weeks, Japan has been the epicentre of a groundbreaking training camp, bringing together judoka from Japan, the Netherlands, Great Britain, and Australia. Hosted at Nihon Bunka University by the Virtus Judo Committee members, Rudi Verhagen (NED) and Tomoo Hamana (JPN), this camp aimed to foster camaraderie, share knowledge, and enhance skills among judoka of all backgrounds, including all three Virtus eligibility classes, II1-II2-II3 and mainstream categories.

The camp kicked off with a bang as Norway’s Stale Wikadahl and Australia’s Lewis Willing led the first of four sessions, focusing on technical groundwork and standing techniques. Participants had the opportunity to learn from world-class instructors, exchange insights, and forge new friendships.

As the camp progressed, sessions were led by renowned coaches Rudi Verhagen from the Netherlands and Tomoo Hamana from Japan. Each session delivered valuable lessons and techniques that enhanced the participants’ judo skills and understanding.

The end-of-camp sessions were led by Tomoo Hamana in the morning, followed by Great Britain’s Kerry Tansey and Laurie Rush delivering the final session. With a diverse range of coaches and perspectives, participants are poised to gain a comprehensive understanding of judo principles and strategies.

The highlight of the camp’s finale was a friendly groundwork (newaza) tournament, where judoka from all countries competed for pride and recognition. Regardless of the outcome, every participant received a medal and certificate, symbolizing their dedication and participation in this remarkable event.

‘It’s been a great experience for our judoka, current and developing II judoka to catch up, make new friends and embrace the culture looking forward to and planning their next adventure. Thank you to Mr Hamana & Rudi Verhagen for planning and hosting this great opportunity for our athletes to experience a performance training environment of this capacity.” said Kerry Tansey, Virtus Judo director.
“This is the first training camp that has been organised in any Asian country. The Virtus Judo committee is considering more such types of camps in the future across the world. There is a potential development of working relationships with the European Judo Union creating and showcasing judo for athletes with intellectual impairment at its best”

As the camp draws to a close, participants look forward to the final leg of their journey—a visit to the hallowed grounds of Judo, The Kodokan. With memories made, friendships forged, and skills honed, judoka departs Japan with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, ready to conquer new challenges on the tatami and beyond.

Resounding Success In The Spanish Paddle Championship In Massanassa

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The Virtus Spain, Federation Spanish Sports Disability Intellectual-FEDDI organised Spanish Paddle Championship in collaboration with the Paddle Federation of the Valencian Community last month. This was the second of the championship that concluded with overwhelming success, thus consolidating itself as one of the most outstanding sporting events of the year.

The competition, which took place from April 12 to 14, brought together more than 161 athletes from 22 sports clubs and 11 different autonomous communities. Figures show that participation continues to grow year after year, reflecting the commitment and passion of athletes for paddle tennis.

For three intense days, from April 12 to 14, participants enjoyed the best game and an incredible atmosphere of coexistence, accompanied by sun and good weather. Furthermore, it is worth highlighting the great family atmosphere that was experienced, with a notable presence of family and spectators. Proof of this was the joint meal held on Saturday at the Sportcity paddle club.

Athletes engaging in Paddle sport match. Photo Credit: FEDDI

In the men’s competition, the unstoppable duo made up of Daniel Sancho and David Abadía, from the Aspadif Club, won the coveted first place. Meanwhile, in the mixed category, the outstanding couple composed of Sara Guasch and Xavier Scarés, from Club Addif, emerged as the undisputed winner.

The men’s competition was not without emotion, and the No Hay Límite Yecla club saw its representatives, Ramiro Hernández and Adrián Bueno, crowned champions. The mixed adapted category saw Nerea Gallego and Marco Casares, from CD San Cebrián, win the first prize.

Photo Credit: FEDDI

For its part, in the women’s sports skills division, the duo formed by Natalia Reche and Maribel Ros, from Club Aidemar, stood out for their impeccable performance. In the mixed sports skills category, the couple composed of Pablo Torres and Adrián Lapeña, from Unitts, emerged as the undisputed winner. Finally, in the individual divisions, Maider Esandia Aldaya, from El Molino, and Néstor Zoe Fernández Rodado, from Fundación Ser, won first prize in the female and male categories respectively.

The awards ceremony was the finishing touch to the competition and had the special participation of Ramón Morcillo, president of the Spanish Paddle Federation. Their prominent presence emphasizes the commitment of both federations to the promotion of inclusive sports and equal opportunities in the sporting field.

Virtus in collaboration with FEDDI is trying to promote the sport within the community of people with intellectual impairment. Anyone interested to know more about the sport or practice it is requested to get in touch with FEDDI.

Applications invited for Sport Director positions (2 posts, voluntary)

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Virtus is seeking applications for two Sport Director positions – cycling and table tennis. Sport Directors are responsible for leading, managing and growing the Virtus sport and competition programme in line with the organisational vision, and for managing the Virtus Sport Committees.

Applications should be made online here and the closing date is 23:59 (UK) on 8th June 2024.

Table Tennis Committee members sought (voluntary) – multiple positions

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Virtus is seeking applications to join its Table Tennis Committee for the period through to Global Games 2027. The roles offer a fantastic opportunity for coaches and sports practitioners with a good understanding of elite sport for athletes with an impairment to grow sport at a national and regional level and make a direct contribution to the running and development of the Virtus sport programme internationally.

Virtus Sports Committees lead and manage our sport and competition programme. In particular they are responsible for development and growth across all regions, all aspects of competition management, rules, classification management (where applicable) and for fostering positive and mutually beneficial partnerships with International Federations.

Application process and deadline

Applications should be made using the online form giving details of your background and experience for the post.

Your application will be shared with the relevant Virtus national member organisation and an interview may be held before a final decision is made.

Applications should be sent no later than 8th June 2024.

Information about the roles

Reports to: Sport Director

Start date: Immediate

End date: Late 2027. Appointments are reviewed on a 4-year cycle, after each Global Games

Working collaboratively, Committee Members will manage the programme taking lead responsibility for agreed areas.

Key Areas of Responsibility

General

  • To work collaboratively within the Sport Committee whose responsibility is to coordinate and manage the relevant Virtus sport  programme
  • To attend and actively participate in all meetings of the Committee
  • To take responsibility for agreed tasks as designated by the Committee
  • To attend events, acting as Technical Delegate where designated by the Committee
  • To liaise with the local Virtus Region to deliver the sport plan and priorities

Key Skills and Qualifications (Competency)

  • Has an excellent understanding of, and empathy for, intellectual disability sport and the para sport world
  • Has excellent understanding of the rules of the sport and able to apply them fairly and consistently
  • Has good leadership skills and is able to work effectively within a team
  • Has excellent organisational, communication and administrative skills

Major Interactions

  • Chair of the Virtus sport committee
  • Virtus Executive Director and management team
  • Virtus Regions and National Member Organisations
  • Any other stakeholders including potential sponsors and dignitaries

General Requirements

  • All Virtus officials must make all decisions with absolute impartiality in the best interest of athletes, sport and the organisation
  • All Virtus officials must declare any potential conflict of interest and not act in association with any national or vested interest
  • All Virtus officials must not abuse their positions or capacity in obtaining advantages or benefits
  • There must be no association with any agencies or persons that are inconsistent with the 
principles of the Virtus  movement and its ideals
  • All Virtus officials shall promote the Virtus Code of Ethics by role modelling, peer monitoring and active peer support
  • All relationships and activities with partners, supporters and sponsors must be done in the spirit of promoting Virtus

Filip Walecki’s Inspiring First Virtus Gold Medal Win at Almaty 2024

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Filip Walecki clinched his first-ever Virtus medal at the 2024 Virtus World Half Marathon and 10K Road Race in Almaty. The celebration was double as the first medal came in the form of a Gold medal.

At just 26 years old, Filip’s remarkable journey to victory serves as a powerful testament to the virtues of determination, passion, and triumph. Alongside his older brother Jakub and their three beloved dogs, Filip and his family embrace an active lifestyle, immersing themselves in a myriad of sports and activities, fostering bonds and creating cherished memories along the way. Filip is a resident of the quaint town of Czarków in southern Poland.

“I feel so happy to win this Gold medal. It is a dream come true. In the autumn of 2023, my journey with Virtus began when I participated in the cross-running competition in Ciechanów. Virtus events have motivated me to train harder and be better, it has been a catalyst for my success”

For Filip, the joy of running lies in the feeling of accomplishment at the finish line.

“I love it when I finish any race, the feeling of accomplishment, people recognising me and congratulations, the fact that I can say: ‘ I DID IT!!!, he proudly exclaims, reflecting on his love for the sport.

Filip has an intellectual impairment and Down syndrome and competes in the II2 competition class in the Virtus competition. Filip’s parents reflect on how Down Syndrome has profoundly impacted Filip’s and his family’s lives.

“Down Syndrome has profoundly impacted every aspect of our lives. The multitude of challenges associated with this genetic condition has made every task extremely difficult, requiring an immense amount of determination and resilience to overcome. From navigating daily activities to striving towards long-term goals, the journey is often filled with many obstacles that are overwhelming for all of us.”

“The intellectual impairment further complicates matters, making it challenging, if not impossible, to fully understand the complexities of the world around us. Yet, despite these hurdles, we continue to persevere, driven by a steadfast commitment to overcoming adversity and achieving our aspirations.”

Despite facing challenges, he continues to inspire others with his resilience and commitment to success.

Filip posing on the podium at Almaty 2024. Photo Credit: IDSport

Philip gives credit to his beloved dog, Hera, an Alaskan Malamute, who sparked Filip’s interest in running, sports and fitness.

“After undergoing extensive physiotherapy, my focus shifted towards sports and fitness. However, the pivotal moment came with the introduction of my pet dog- Hera, into my life. Known for their high energy levels, Hera’s need for activity motivated me to start with short walks and gradually progress to longer ones. Eventually, we ventured into the mountains, tackling ultramarathons together. In 2021, I completed my longest distance yet, covering 74 km without Hera by my side. Additionally, we participated in numerous dog trekking competitions, further fueling my passion for running and outdoor adventures.”

While training presents its challenges, Filip finds strength in his coach, Ewelina Zbijowska, and his club Start Bielsko. Filip’s ultimate goal in life is “to be the winner in anything he does.” His unwavering determination and commitment to success serve as an inspiration to all who encounter his story.

Filip Walachia’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and unwavering determination. As he continues to chase his dreams, Filip’s story serves as a reminder that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.