The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) is inviting athletes, members, partners, coaches, referees, classifiers, officials and members of the public to get involved with the first World Blind Sports Day on 24 April.

The celebrations will mark 40 years since IBSA was established at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, in 1981.

Since then the organisation has become the world’s leading body for the development of sports for people with visual impairments, governing eight sports and providing expertise on classification and accessibility.

IBSA is encouraging people to celebrate World Blind Sports Day by trying a sport for themselves – whether they have a disability or not.

IBSA President Jannie Hammershoi said: “With COVID-19 restrictions varying at local, regional and national levels, we wanted to give people something different which they can do at home on their own, or with friends and family. There are a huge variety of individual and team sports practiced by people with visual impairments around the world – this is your chance to try something new and challenge yourself.

“Perhaps you are a blind judoka who has always wanted to try goalball, or a sighted runner who wants to experience running wearing a blindfold with a friend for a guide. We want to hear about your experiences and share them with the world so we can spread the word even further about how incredible blind and visually impaired athletes are.”

Anyone can take part in World Blind Sports Day on 24 April and share their pictures and videos using #IBSA40. IBSA will then post their updates on its social media platforms.

Inspiration can be found on IBSA’s YouTube channel, where videos of elite athletes aim to inspire others to give sport without sight a try. Information about the wide variety of sports available for all ages and abilities can be found at IBSA’s website. From showdown to shooting and blind football to powerlifting, there is something for everyone.

About #IBSA40

IBSA is celebrating reaching 40 years, alongside the 75th anniversary of goalball, throughout 2021 with activities that will involve and recognise the hundreds of athletes, officials, members and volunteers that have helped make it what it is.

As well as World Blind Sports Day on 24 April IBSA will launch its new website, host educational seminars, publish details of the most influential figures from the movement and hold international days for the Paralympic sports of goalball, blind football and judo.