The third day of the Virtus European Winter Games concluded today in Zakopane with Italy dominating the podium in rowing and several skiers claiming their second gold medals.

Indoor Rowing

Italy dominated the podiums in Indoor rowing as four of it’s outstanding rowers win multiple medals.

Marta Piccininno (ITA) showcased her prowess on the rowing machine, clinching gold in both the Women’s II1 2000m and 1000m events, proving her dominance across varying distances.

Italy’s Francesco Saverio Di Donato’s remarkable performance was undeniable as he claimed the top spot in both the Men’s II1 2000m and 1000m races, solidifying his status as a formidable force in indoor rowing.

Marta Casetta’s (ITA) double-medal triumph exemplified her versatility and endurance, securing gold in the Women’s II2 2000m and adding a silver in the fiercely contested 1000m event.

Margherita Merlo (ITA) left spectators in awe with her exceptional rowing abilities, capturing gold in the Women’s II2 1000m race and demonstrating her endurance with a silver in the challenging 2000m competition.

Skiing: Giant Slalom

The slopes of Zakopane, Poland, witnessed remarkable feats of athleticism as skiers from across the globe showcased their skiing skills in the Giant Slalom (GS) event at the Virtus World and European Skiing Championship happening as a part of the Virtus European Winter Games.

Mélanie De Bona (FRA) clinched the top spot with an impressive combined time of 1:41.54, claiming the second gold medal from the championship. Amilia Selznick (USA) followed closely behind, securing the silver medal (1:42.70) and Eva-Maria Dünser (AUS) rounded off the podium, claiming the bronze medal (1:46.26).

In the II1 Men’s category, phenomenal French dominator Thomas Girard leading the charge. Girard’s stellar performance earned him the gold medal (1:34.93), showcasing remarkable speed and technique. His compatriot, Antoine Maure, secured the silver medal (1:37.77), while Christian Öllinger (AUS) settled for the bronze medal (1:41.02).

Anna-Sophie Friedl (AUS) delivered a stunning performance in the II2 Women’s category, clinching another gold medal (1:55.69). Stephanie Schlömmer (AUS), secured the silver medal with a time of (2:06.60), demonstrating admirable resilience on the slopes. Bea-Anna Westerstrahle of Finland showcased determination, earning the bronze medal despite facing challenges on the course.

Antoni Wiercioch from Poland emerged victorious in the II2 Men’s category, claiming the gold medal with a time of 1:50.99. Michael Konrad of Austria secured the silver medal with a time of 1:55.99, while Markus Grameiser, also from Austria, claimed the bronze medal with a time of 1:56.88.

Aleksandra Andrejko (POL) striked hatrick by winning her third gold from the championship in II3 Women’s category. With a time of 1:43.47, Aleksandra defeated Aliye Zeynep Bingül (TUR) and Whitehouse Elizabeth (USA).

In the II3 Men’s category, Axel Bringdal (FRA) claimed his second championship title with a time of 1:34.21, displaying remarkable speed and agility on the slopes. Ange Cazorla (FRA) and Palmer Lyons (USA) secured silver and bronze for themselves.

Basketball:

The semifinal games are scheduled between Poland and Portugal, as well as France-I and France-II. It will be intriguing to observe whether Portugal, champions of the European championship for two consecutive years, can secure a third consecutive championship title, or if another team will emerge victorious.

Futsal:

Poland and Spain are set to compete for the bronze medal position, while the final showdown promises excitement as perennial rivals Portugal, reigning Virtus Global Games Champions, and France, runners-up in GG2023, prepare to clash once more.

History was made in Zakopane, Poland, as the inaugural Virtus Winter Games crowned its champions, marking a significant moment in skiing and indoor rowing history. Athletes from across Europe and select nations worldwide showcased their remarkable skill and determination in the thrilling competitions, highlighting the talent and resilience of participants with intellectual impairments.

SKIING: Super Giant Slalom (SGS)

In the II1 Women’s Super Giant Slalom, Mélanie De Bona from France secured the top spot with an impressive time of 43.64 seconds. Amilia Selznick representing the USA followed closely behind, achieving a time of 45.97 seconds, just 2.33 seconds behind the leader and Tamami Baba of Japan finished third with a time of 46.81 seconds, trailing by 3.17 seconds.

Aoshi Kanazawa from Japan claimed the top position in the II1 Men’s category with an impressive time of 40.74 seconds. Thomas Girard of France secured second place with a time of 41.05 seconds, just 0.31 seconds behind the leader. Yusuke Kizuki, also from Japan, took the third spot with a time of 42.76 seconds, trailing by 2.02 seconds.

In the II2 Women’s category, Austrians dominated the podium with Anna-Sophie Friedl from Austria (49.14 seconds) claiming the gold and Stephanie Schlömmer (51.09 seconds) securing herself a silver. Bea-Anna Westerstrahle of Finland finished third with a time of 59.90 seconds, trailing by 10.76 seconds.

Antoni Wiercioch from Poland claimed the top spot in the II2 Men’s category with a remarkable time of 47.71 seconds. Markus Grameiser of Austria secured second place with a time of 48.31 seconds, 0.60 seconds behind the leader. Klemens Zieba, also from Poland, took the third position with a time of 49.20 seconds, trailing by 1.49 seconds.

In the II3 Women’s category, Aleksandra Andrejko from Poland secured the top spot with an impressive time of 42.90 seconds. Elizabeth Whitehouse representing the USA finished second with a time of 57.03 seconds, trailing by 14.13 seconds. Aliye Zeynep Bingül from Turkey took the third position with a time of 59.36 seconds, trailing by 16.46 seconds.

Axel Bringdal of France claimed victory in the II3 Men’s category with a remarkable time of 40.95 seconds. Ange Cazorla, also from France, secured second place with a time of 41.82 seconds, 0.87 seconds behind the leader. Palmer Lyons representing the USA finished third with a time of 42.29 seconds, trailing by 1.34 seconds.

INDOOR ROWING: 500m

Awe-inspiring performances unfolded in the 500m women’s race. Adriana Czekaj of Poland surged to victory in the II1 division, clocking a lightning-fast time of 1:51.5, closely pursued by Italy’s Marta Piccininno at 1:52.8. France’s Clémence Wattecampps showcased her finesse, clinching third place with a time of 1:54.3.

The intensity continued as Marta Casetta of Italy dominated the II2 category, crossing the finish line in 2:31.9, trailed by compatriot Margherita Merlo at 2:37.5. Meanwhile, Nadège Dathy of France showcased sheer determination, securing third place in the II2 division with a time of 2:45.2.

In the men’s category, France’s Damien Touchagues left spectators in awe with his stellar performance, conquering the II1 division in 1:29.3. Italy’s Francesco Saverio Di Donato closely trailed behind at 1:29.5, while Giulio Guerra exhibited his prowess, finishing third in the II1 division with a time of 1:31.4.

The excitement soared as Andrea Appendino of Italy dominated the II2 category, showcasing extraordinary skill with a top spot finish in 1:53.9. Lorenzo Sforza of Italy followed closely at 1:56.7, while Dylan Lorec Berjuin of France delivered a commendable performance, securing third place in the II2 division with a time of 1:59.9.

Not to be outdone, Théodore Chatel of France emerged victorious in the II3 category, setting the pace with a stellar time of 1:28.3. Lorenzo Mazzoletti of Italy showcased his strength, securing second place with a time of 1:29.1, rounding off a day of remarkable achievements and fierce competition.

In the thrilling 4×500-meter relay, Team France showcased their dominance with a remarkable time of 7:01.7, led by the stellar performances of Clementine Berland, Clémence Wattecampps, Ehenne Kolialis, and Damien Touchagues. Italy followed closely behind, securing second place with a time of 7:12.1, led by Francesco Saverio Di Donato, Giulio Guerra, Serena Giorgetti, and Marta Piccininno. The combined efforts of Poland and Portugal earned them third place with a time of 7:22.8, with Jorge Sousa, Adriana Czekaj, Vasco Vicente, and Agata Pitura showcasing commendable teamwork. In the 4×500 II 2 category, Italy continued their winning streak with a time of 9:12.5, while Team France secured second place with a time of 9:37.1.

Live streams of all sports will be available on Virtus social media and YouTube channels.

Stay updated with event highlights at Virtus Facebook, Twitter and Instagram on all competition days between 3rd March to 8th March. Event information can be accessed from the Virtus European Winter Games website.

We are thrilled to unveil the highly anticipated upcoming second edition of the Virtus para-dressage competition, set to grace Winchester, Great Britain later this year. Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition held at the Global Games last year, this upcoming event is poised to elevate the standards of excellence in para-dressage.

The event is scheduled to take place from 15th to 19th July.

Organized by Virtus in collaboration with Sparsholt College Equestrian Centre, recognized as one of the premier riding venues in the UK, the event will span over two days and offer competition for II1, II2, and II3 riders.

Sparsholt’s world-class facilities, including stabling for up to 66 horses and Olympic-standard indoor and outdoor arenas, ensure an unparalleled experience for both participants and spectators alike. Notably, Sparsholt regularly hosts affiliated and unaffiliated competitions, further attesting to its esteemed status in the equestrian community.

Uta Rindfleisch, our esteemed Sports Director, calls upon all members to rally behind this event.

“The Virtus Equestrian Committee is dedicatedly crafting a comprehensive program of live competition, culminating in the highly anticipated Global Games 2027 – recently announced to be hosted in Cairo, Egypt. These events, complementing our existing video competitions, signify our commitment to providing opportunities for our growing team of riders worldwide. We are thrilled that Sparsholt College will serve as the venue for this fantastic endeavour.”

For further details about the competition, visit Virtus events page. The official entry pack is available here.

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of para-dressage and showcase the incredible talent within our community!

Virtus is delighted to announce that the prestigious seventh edition of the Global Games, scheduled for 2027, will be hosted in Cairo, Egypt. This marks a significant milestone as we prepare to welcome thousands of athletes from around the world to this international multi-sport event.

Congratulations to the Egyptian Sports Federation for Intellectual Disabilities (ESFID), Virtus Egypt Member, for their successful bid to host the quadrennial Games. Virtus President, Marc Truffaut, expressed excitement about the journey ahead, highlighting the upcoming World Championships in 2024 and 2025, Regional Games in 2026, and the pinnacle event, the Virtus Global Games 2027 (GG2027).

“The GG2027 presents an exciting opportunity to showcase new and emerging talent. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Amal Mobadda, President of Virtus Egypt, and her team for securing the bid, and we wish them the best of luck in the planning process,” said Mr. Truffaut.

The Virtus Global Games, held every four years, serves as a pathway to qualification for the Paralympic Games. Looking ahead to LA2028 and beyond, Virtus is committed to expanding the inclusion of events for athletes with intellectual impairments.

ESFID, as part of the Egyptian Paralympic Committee, showcased world-class sporting venues, the rich cultural heritage of Cairo, and the unwavering support of government and sporting organizations, ensuring that GG2027 will be an exceptional event.

Ms. Amal Mobadda, President of Virtus Egypt and Virtus Africas Region, emphasized Egypt’s commitment to promoting inclusion and celebrating athletic excellence.

“It is an honour to host this world-class event in Cairo, where culture and elite sports will converge. We are ready to welcome the best international athletes and provide them with a truly memorable experience in November 2027,” said Ms. Mobadda.

The Virtus Global Games aims to challenge perceptions and promote a more inclusive world, spotlighting the athleticism, resilience, and strength of athletes with intellectual impairments on a global stage.

Stay tuned for more information about the sports events, eligibility criteria, and competition period in November 2027.

The second day of the 2024 Virtus World and European Indoor Athletics Championship in Reims, France commenced with an electrifying start, setting the stage for a day of remarkable performances.

Aysel Önder of Turkey left an indelible mark on the competition by breaking the Women’s II1 400m event record with an astonishing time of 57.454 seconds, captivating the crowd and securing her place in Virtus World history as a true champion.

In the Men’s II1 Shot Put, Maksym Koval of Ukraine astounded spectators with a monumental throw, achieving a remarkable distance of 17.40 meters and setting a new standard for the event.

Athletes from Bulgaria, France, Turkey, and Ukraine excelled, claiming multiple medals and showcasing their exceptional talent and determination on the global stage.

Aleksandar Asenov of Bulgaria demonstrated his dominance by clinching gold in both the Men’s Shot Put (7Kg) and Men’s Shot Put (4Kg) events.

Nicolas Virapin from France soared to victory in the Men’s Long Jump, adding a silver medal in the Men’s Shot Put (4Kg) event to his impressive haul.

Lucas Tandrayen, also representing France, showcased his skill with a silver in the Men’s Shot Put (4Kg) and a bronze in the same event, highlighting his versatility.

Turkey’s Reyhan Tasdelen impressed with a bronze in the Women’s Long Jump and another bronze in the Women’s 200m race, displaying her versatility as an athlete.

Ukraine’s Olha Zazuliak demonstrated her athleticism by competing in both the Women’s Long Jump and Women’s 200m events, showcasing her dedication to excellence.

Portugal maintained its lead in the medal tally with a total of 12 medals, including 5 gold, 5 silver, and 2 bronze. Ukraine followed closely with 10 medals, while Turkey secured 9 medals in total.

For full results, visit the Virtus website for comprehensive information on the championship.

Watch the highlights from day-2 of reims 2024 below. Feel free to share, follow and subscribe to our channel!