By Gary Anderson

October 26 - The 2013 Asian Youth Para Games are underway in Kuala LumparInternational Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Sir Philip Craven joined a number of other dignitaries, including the Malaysian Minister of Youth and Sports Khairy Jamaluddin, at the Asian Youth Para Games Opening Ceremony at the Putra Stadium in Kuala Lumpur.

Sir Philip and Jamaluddin were joined at the grand opening of the third edition of the Games, first held in Hong Kong in 2003, by Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) patron Tun Jeanne Abdullah and Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) President Dato' Zainal Abu Zarin to welcome competitors and fans to the Malaysian capital.

Last held in Tokyo in 2009, this year's Games will be the biggest yet, featuring more than 1,200 athletes from over 30 countries competing in more than 600 disciplines across 14 sports from today until next Wednesday (October 30).

"A total of 14 sports will be contested here this time," said Jamaluddin.

"This is a significant increase from the 2009 Games in Tokyo.

"This shows the Games are growing in stature, a trend I hope continues.

"It is my hope that the masses will have a better understanding of Para-sports and the Paralympic philosophy.

Local dancers from host city Kuala Lumpar perform at the Opening Ceremony of the 2013 Asian Youth Para GamesLocal dancers from host city Kuala Lumpar perform at the Opening Ceremony of the 2013 Asian Youth Para Games

























"It's great to see the spirit and the burning desire present in our young athletes here today.

"This is where a lot of you will realise your dreams, forge new friendships, and make the impossible, possible.

"Winning is important and I know that's what athletes like you have trained very hard for.

"Everyone wants to win a gold medal.

"However, for all of you to be here, competing against some of the best in Asia tells me that all of you are winners.

"Continue striving for excellence in both sports and life."

The 2013 Games are being held under the slogan "Where Passion Grows, Dreams Fulfilled, Friendships Strengthened" and following the official Opening Ceremony declaration, the Games torch was lit by a group of athletes from the Malaysian team before those present were entertained by a number of performances from local dance groups and performers.

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