Changzhou will stage its eighth Paralympic Games from 17–21 August at the Changzhou Olympic Sports Centre, bringing together more than 500 participants, including 270 athletes.

This year’s Games are being held under the theme “Boundless Tracks, Breaking Free, Chasing the Light, Towards the Future.” Competitions will cover 12 disciplines, ranging from athletics, swimming, badminton and table tennis to sitting volleyball, three-a-side basketball for the hearing impaired, and floor curling.

Since launching its first city-level Paralympic Games in 1997, Changzhou has held seven editions. Organizers say the 2024 Games will adhere to the principles of being “safe, exciting, economical and open”, while also highlighting inclusive values and advances in assistive technologies.

A key feature this year is the introduction of an intelligent, technology-driven competition service system designed to improve accessibility and enhance the experience for athletes and spectators alike. The medal and points system has also been revised to encourage greater participation by young athletes, with additional rewards for competitors under 18. Officials hope the move will help discover and nurture a new generation of Paralympic talent in preparation for the 12th Jiangsu Provincial Paralympic Games in 2026 and the Los Angeles Paralympic Games in 2028.

The Games are also being hailed as a platform to promote the balanced development of grassroots disability sport and elite competition, underlining Changzhou’s commitment to building a more inclusive and supportive sporting environment.

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