Perth Open Championships for Athletes with a Disability

30 September 2019

Perth Strathtay Harriers have an established and vibrant disability inclusion programme. The entirely volunteer led club has a simple aim, to coach the athlete, not the disability. The athletes get the opportunity to take part in regular activity, including competition, but most of all enjoy the experience of being part of the Harriers family.

On 14th September the Harriers welcomed hundreds of athletes, coaches and supporters to Perth. Athletes from 5 years old to senior come from all over Scotland and beyond to take part in this annual fixture on the disability sport calendar.

This event showcases the variety of disciplines that make up the world of para athletics and the complexities associated with simply taking part. More than 60 individual events take place for athletes with a physical, learning or sensory disability. The athletes are then classified into wheelchair racers, RaceRunning and ambulant groups to ensure fairness across the competition.

A large turnout of Harriers athletes were up against national and international opposition. It was great to see some Perth athletes competing at this level for the very first time. For others it was a great occasion to celebrate their successful season of competition at their home stadium.

Many guests come along to be part of this special day and enjoy the fantastic competition. This year, Perth and Kinross Council Provost Dennis Melloy was there to watch some of the action and present medals to the winning athletes.

If you or someone you know might be interested in joining the club you can find more about Perth Strathtay Harriers on their website, twitter or Facebook page.

Gallery Photographer

Laurence Bisset is a friend of the Perth Strathtay Harriers club, a helping hand and a very talented professional photographer. View some of Laurence's photography on his website.