On Wednesday, May 15, the Teletón Antofagasta Institute opened its doors to eight sports delegations participating until Friday in the sports meeting “Together for Inclusion 2024”, organized by Teletón Foundation and Luksic Foundation in the regional capital.
The opening day was attended by the Minister of Sports, Jaime Pizarro; the general manager of Luksic Foundation, Isabella Luksic; the executive director of Teletón Foundation, Benjamín Díaz; various regional authorities, and Teletón families.
In total, more than 80 athletes from the Teletón institutes of Arica, Iquique, Calama, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, Santiago, and Antofagasta gathered in the “Pearl of the North” to be part of the meeting, which will run until May 17.
“Together for Inclusion 2024” arises from the shared vision of Teletón and Luksic Foundation regarding sports, as a formative platform through which it is possible to develop important socio-emotional skills and enhance competencies and capacities that improve people’s life trajectories holistically.
At the start of the tournament, the director of the Teletón Antofagasta Institute, Sebastián Azares, extended a warm welcome to all children, youth, as well as families, teachers, and distinguished guests.
“This great sports festival has been organized together with the Luksic Foundation, allowing us to provide spaces, activities, and opportunities to the community through sports. Therefore, we hope to continue building and strengthening this relationship,” commented Sebastián Azares.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Sports, Jaime Pizarro, highlighted the importance of this event for the inclusion and sports development of people with disabilities. “We are delighted to share this activity in regions, and Antofagasta being the host of this sports meeting for children and youth, from Santiago to the north, creates a pleasant atmosphere that encourages integration, coexistence, and connection in the community,” he expressed.
The collaboration between Teletón and Luksic Foundation has been essential to realize this unprecedented sports event in the region. Isabella Luksic, general manager of Luksic Foundation, emphasized the importance of this alliance for promoting adapted sports and social inclusion. “We are convinced that sports are a formative platform through which fundamental skills and tools for life can be enhanced. All the athletes present today are a great example of how with work, dedication, and conviction, incredible capabilities can be enhanced,” said Isabella Luksic.
The inauguration was filled with inspiration thanks to a motivating talk by the renowned swimmer Bárbara Hernández, “the Ice Mermaid”. “My invitation to you is to dare to start as many times as necessary. I strongly believe that we are our attempts, not our medals. You have to put heart into your dreams,” said the swimmer emotionally, encouraging young athletes with her words to pursue their dreams without fear of failure.
Rocío Muñoz, representative of the Teletón Antofagasta Institute, who will participate in the 3×3 basketball competitions over the next three days, also shared the importance of sports not only in her rehabilitation but in her life. “Teletón allowed me to continue doing what I love and become an athlete. Now I am preparing to compete in the Paralympic Games. Just like me, I hope that more girls join in physical activity because there are still many who represent adapted sports,” she added.
After the ceremony, a series of sports and recreational activities took place, including the start of 3X3 wheelchair basketball, adapted table tennis, and games and recreational activities for attendees.
In Teletón, sports play a fundamental role, as it not only maximizes rehabilitation processes but also fosters the development of socio-emotional skills, inspiring and promoting inclusion.
