Muscular Dystrophy UK, in collaboration with Scottish Disability Sport, will host a free sports event for children with muscle conditions on Saturday, August 24, 2024.
The charity, which supports over 110,000 people in the UK with muscle-wasting conditions, invites children under 18 with these conditions to participate in a variety of sports. Activities will include curling, powerchair football, boccia, and swimming.
The event aims to provide a supportive environment with necessary adaptations, allowing children to enjoy sports, develop new skills, and connect with peers facing similar challenges. Participants will have the chance to interact with Scottish Boccia and Powerchair Football players, as well as a representative from Scottish Swimming. Special thanks are extended to Scottish Curling and SPFA for supplying the necessary equipment.
Paralympian Stephen McGuire, 40, from Hamilton, Glasgow, who has merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy, will attend the event. McGuire, who has used a power wheelchair since age 14, is preparing for his fourth Paralympic Games in Paris from August 28 to September 8. He has competed in London, Rio, and Tokyo.
McGuire commented, “Competing in the Paralympics has always been a dream of mine. It’s incredible to participate in my fourth Games. Sport has given me purpose and joy. Boccia, for example, is inclusive from school to national levels, and I encourage everyone to give it a try. Events like the Scottish Disability Sports Event are crucial for helping children explore sports, build confidence, and discover their abilities.”
Jacqueline Munro, Head of Regional Support, Outreach, and Information at Muscular Dystrophy UK, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Scottish Disability Sport once again. This event offers children the chance to try different sports, meet others in the muscle-wasting community, and learn about the support Muscular Dystrophy UK provides.”
Joshua Thomson, Events Manager at Scottish Disability Sport, added, “We are excited to collaborate with Muscular Dystrophy UK to offer this special opportunity. All sports will be led by experienced coaches from Scottish Governing Bodies who specialize in working with individuals with muscular dystrophy and similar conditions.”
The event will be held from 12:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Grangemouth Sports Complex, Abbots Road, Grangemouth, Falkirk, FK3 8JB. Accessible facilities, including changing areas and a Changing Places toilet, will be available.
