The 10th International Abilympics was held in Metz, France, from Wednesday, March 22, to Saturday, March 25, 2023.

The Abilympics combines the words Abi(lities) and (O)lympics, which links professional skills (Abilities) with the Olympian spirit (Olympic). It is the nickname for the National Skills Competition for Persons with Disabilities. The first competition to showcase the vocational skills of persons with disabilities was held in November 1972 with the aim to improve their skills, enhance the understanding and awareness among businesses and the general public, and promote their employment.

The first International Abilympics was held in Tokyo during the International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981. Since then, the competition has been held approximately every four years in cities worldwide.

The 10th International Abilympics was scheduled to be held in Russia in April 2022 but was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the invasion of Ukraine, so an alternative event was held in France. 440 athletes from 26 countries and regions, including Japan, participated in 44 events.

Japanese athletes participated in 17 events and won 1 gold, 4 silver, 3 bronze, and 1 special prize. The winners are as follows (titles omitted)

Gold

Silver

Bronze

Special Award* Awarded to the contestant with the highest score in their delegation.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/newpage_32059.html