UIPM 2019 Global Laser Run City Tour: Everyone’s welcome as Hamilton (NZL) demonstrates inclusive approach

New Zealand secured a Tokyo 2020 Olympic qualification place in November, thanks to Rebecca Jamieson, completing a historic spring for the UIPM Sports community in the Oceania nation.

On October 26, Modern Pentathlon New Zealand (MPNZ) held its first edition of the Global Laser Run City Tour, drawing athletes of all ages to the city of Hamilton – including two from Singapore.

It was a truly inclusive event, with several participants with physical and intellectual disabilities taking part alongside fellow competitors in categories ranging from Under-10 to Masters 60+. A para race was held for visually-impaired athletes.

"MPNZ’s vision is to develop and support athletes of all abilities, including para athletes and special athletes, so all have the opportunity to participate," said the newly-appointed MPNZ President, Kaewruethai Collings.

“In support of the above vision, MPNZ athletes are encouraged to guide and support Achilles International athletes, and it was fantastic to have several para and special athletes competing on the day.

“While New Zealand is developing, any athlete that comes and supports Modern Pentathlon exponentially helps grow the sport in the country. Both UIPM and local support have also been integral to the fast growth we are experiencing.”

More domestic events will be held in 2020, while MPNZ will continue to support athletes taking part in International UIPM events.

The Global Laser Run City Tour was created in 2017 to provide an entry point to UIPM Sports for people of all ages in urban communities around the world.

Another 100 cities were selected in 2019 as hosts of the GLRCT or the Biathle-Triathle National Tour. The full calendar can be viewed at the UIPM website, where you can also find more information on UIPM’s various multi-discipline sports.

In September, the UIPM Laser Run World Championships was incorporated into the Pentathlon World Championships for the first time in Budapest (HUN), where Laser Run also featured as a showcase sport at the 1st World Urban Games.

In December, Laser Run and Triathle will both feature for the first time in the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in the Philippines.

Have you liked the UIPM Laser Run page on Facebook yet?