Katsusada Hirose President The 29th Oita International Wheelchair Marathon Governor of Oita Prefecture

The Oita International Wheelchair Marathon, which was brought to life here in Oita to commemorate the 1981 International Year of Disabled Persons, has received support from countless people, left behind broken records and fabulous memories, and has matured into what today is praised as the Everest of wheelchair marathon competitions.

In last year’s 28th marathon, 281 athletes from 14 foreign countries and 38 prefectures of Japan competed. Cold rains and harsh weather conditions were present up until the start of the race but in the spirit of the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games and the 8th National Sports Competition for the Disabled “Challenge! Oita TAIKAI” a close race unfolded. There were winners who made come-backs and champs for the 2nd year in a row who broke new world records to make for an unforgettable competition.

I am always so strongly impressed by the sight of the wheelchair athletes reaching for different goals while single mindedly testing their own personal limits and by the warm friendships and interactions that overcome the presence or absence of disabilities.

In this year’s 29th competition as well, the sight of athletes who aim for the finish line will deeply impress, and give courage and hope to, not only people with disabilities but all the Oita citizens standing along the side lines.

This year, as always, I look forward to your participation. Let’s meet again in Oita!