On Thursday 19th of June, 188 participants gathered at Mile End Stadium for London Youth Games ParaGames Athletics event. Young people from across London came together to compete in a variety of accessible track and field events to represent their borough and have a unique and memorable chance to compete for a medal. The competition featured accessible versions of races, jumping, and throwing events, all designed to be inclusive for all.  

ParaGames Athletics is an exciting opportunity for participants to represent their London borough at London Youth Games’ fully inclusive athletics competition. The young competitors had the chance to take part in track and field events as well as team relays, all contributing points toward their borough’s overall score.  

This event was proudly supported by Chaotic, a UK-based competition platform dedicated to supporting families with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Chaotic partners with and sponsors a wide range of community organisations, schools and charities that share its mission. With a growing community of over 76,000 members, 90% of which have an SEN Relation. Chaotic is dedicated to providing spaces for families facing similar challenges.  For founder Shana Kennedy, this mission is personal as her son Reyon is autistic. 

Together, London Youth Games and Chaotic Community are working to make sport more inclusive for everyone and help even more SEN children to experience the transformative benefits of sports and physical activity.   

The atmosphere at the stadium was electric as spectators and fans came to cheer on their boroughs’ performances, victories and personal bests. The event started with the track events taking center stage, with young people competing in 100m and 200m races. On the field, events including the vortex howler, shot-put and long jump gave participants a chance to test their strength and throwing skills.  

A participant from Haringey shared how London Youth Games has impacted them: “London Youth Games has changed me personally because it’s made me more happy seeing everyone here today, laughing, smiling, having fun, running, and being in events that they can’t physically do, but they are trying their best and it just made me happier.” 

Congratulations to the following teams: 

Boys Competition  

Gold: Bromley  

Silver: Hackney  

Bronze: Camden  

Girls Competition  

Gold: Wandsworth  

Silver: Bromley  

Bronze: Hackney  

Thank you to the officials who brilliantly supported the day. We are grateful to the Borough Team Organisers, Team Managers and teachers for their support in making the day memorable for all involved. A heartfelt thank you to Greater London Authority (Mayor of London) for their continued support to help increase inclusion opportunities for all young Londoners.