During the third APC Coordination Commission in Guangzhou, members of the APC and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), including APC President Dato’ Zainal Abu Zarin and IPC chief executive Xavier Gonzalez, were briefed on the progress of the Games.

During their two day visit, which concluded today, the APC Coordination Commission received a detailed presentation regarding preparations for the Games from the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games Organising Committee (GAPGOC). 

During various sessions, a range of topics was discussed including: the organisation of competitions, sport venues and barrier-free facilities, broadcasting and media services, accommodation, catering, transport, classification while a venue tour rounded off the two day meeting.

While satisfied with the preparations for Guangzhou 2010, the APC and IPC gave clear guidelines for the work ahead.

Gonzalez said: "The third Coordination Commission was an excellent opportunity to clarify questions and discuss important issues only seven months out of the Games."

The Guangzhou 2010 Asian Para Games will take place from December 12 until19 with around 5,500 athletes from more than 45 Asian countries participating in 19 sports.

The Games will be the first ever Asian Para Games and will take place two weeks after the conclusion of the 16th Asian Games.

Competition and training venues plus all other facilities to be used for the 16th Asian Games will be converted to meet the disability-accessible requirements for Asian Para Games athletes, officials, staff and audience.

The Games are set to be one of the most comprehensive Asian disability events in history and will provide a vital steppingstone for elite Asian athletes aiming to compete at the London 2012 Paralympics.

As the first ever Asian Para Games, the event is expected to become the benchmark for all future editions.

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