Manchester to host first inaugural Paralympic World Cup

The two-day competition will feature track and field athletics, swimming, cycling and wheelchair basketball.

Organisers hope that the event will secure a regular place in the Paralympic calendar as one of the largest multi-sport competitions for athletes with disabilities outside of the Paralympic Games.

UK Sport, Manchester City Council and the North-West Regional Development Agency have agreed to fund the event for three years.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the British Paralympic Association (BPA) have both endorsed the event.

Phil Craven, President of the IPC, said: "The IPC is delighted that athletics, cycling, swimming and wheelchair basketball four Paralympic sports will be showcased in Manchester in 2005.

"I am sure that the Paralympic World Cup will be yet another opportunity for Paralympians to inspire and excite the world!"

Facilities built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester will provide many of the venues used for the event.

Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "The residents of Manchester have a passion for sport and the Paralympic World Cup is another first for the city.

"It will give Paralympians the chance to compete in state-of-the-art facilities and visitors will be able to enjoy a world-class event in a great city."

BBC Television has already agreed to broadcast the event, which will take place on 14-15 May 2005.

Dave Gordon, Head of Major Events at the BBC, added: "There is a clear audience appetite for world class disability sport and we in BBC Sport believe this new, exciting event can play a crucial role in raising the profile of these athletes in the years in between Paralympics."

27 September 2004

Official Paralympic World Cup website