TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Hsinchu City will come alive with energy this weekend as athletes with intellectual disabilities from across Taiwan gather for the biennial parent-child national games.

The two-day event offers participants opportunities to develop sports skills, build confidence, and expand social connections through competitions adapted to different abilities. Nearly 1,000 competitors will take part in 25 events, from track and field to ball games and swimming, according to Yuan Feng Media.

This year, 40 participants from offshore Kinmen County, paired in 20 parent-child teams, will join in events like target passing, relay races, and long jump. 

Kinmen Deputy Magistrate Li Wen-liang (李文良) presented a flag to the athletes on Friday, saying he hoped the activities would spark joy and encourage social engagement, according to CNA.

Acting Hsinchu Mayor Chiu Chen-yuan (邱臣遠) also honored six local athletes who have been participating in the games for 18 years. He invited the public to cheer on the athletes and enjoy the lively mix of sports, technology, and culture that Hsinchu offers.

First held in 1995 and now organized every two years, the games follow the spirit of the Paralympics: encouraging athletes to give their best, enjoy the moment, and discover their potential, while fostering inclusion and connection.

The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities defines an intellectual disability as having below-average intelligence and difficulties with daily life skills, which appear during childhood or adolescence, according to the Maria Social Welfare Association.