Canadian Para-swimmer Justine Morrier of Haute Richelieu, QC, led the Canadian squad as flag bearer for the opening ceremonies of the 3rd INAS Global Games in Genoa Italy, home of Christopher Columbus.

Kirstie Kasko

According to National Para-swimming coach, Craig McCord, the opening ceremonies were one of the most unique ones he’s ever attended.

“It was a truly great experience for these athletes and it really gave them a taste of what it might be like in London next year,” said McCord.

The event started with participating countries meeting outside Genoa Central Train Station under the eyes of the statue of Columbus. The parade of countries wound its way through the streets of Genoa to the cheers of local business people, the public and hundreds of school children.

The parade of athletes ended at the Genoa City Centre Piazza where countries were introduced to the waiting masses.

The 10 member swimming team and 6 member support staff will compete for 4 days in the INAS from September 29- October 2nd against the best swimmers with an intellectual disability in the world in preparation for the competition at the 2012 London Paralympic Games.

The Canadian Team is composed of:
Magnus Batara, Richmond BC
Adam Rahier, Nanaimo BC
Dalton Boon, Delta BC
Kirstie Kasko, Okotoks AB
Meagan Michie, Ottawa ON
Michael Heath, Woodstock ON
Michael Qing, Regina Sask
Justine Morrier, Haute Richelieu QC
Maxime Rousselle, Haute Richelieu QC
Malcolm Fairweather, Toronto Ontario

Support Staff
Craig McCord, Team Leader, Richmond BC
France Latendresse, Coach, Haute Richelieu QC
Scott Flood, Coach, Nanaimo BC
Joni Maerten-Sanders, Coach, Tilsonburg ON
Janet Dunn, Athlete Support, Victoria BC
Amy Canuel, Athlete Support, Surrey BC

About the Inas Global Games
The Inas Global Games are one of the largest events for athletes with an intellectual disability in the World, and the pinnacle of the Inas event programme. They take place every 4 years, one year before the Paralympic Games, and feature World Championship competition in 7 sports.