Paraná Table Tennis Tournament includes athletes with Down syndrome
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Forty-two athletes with Down syndrome from ten cities in the Paraná state of Brazil competed in the Copa Down table tennis tournament in Francisco Beltrão from October 16 to 18.
The competition, now in its ninth year, returned to Francisco Beltrão, where it began 19 years ago. Players came from cities including Barracão, Santa Izabel do Oeste, and Foz do Iguaçu to participate in matches held at the Danilo Biazus Sports Gymnasium.
The tournament originated in 2007 as a birthday celebration for Antônio Lúcio Duarte Filho, known as Lucinho, who was turning 35. What began as a local event has grown over time, attracting athletes from different municipalities and rotating host cities. The city of Francisco Beltrão’s municipal government supported the event through its Department of Sport and Leisure. Beyond the athletic competition, the Copa Down provides opportunities for athletes to socialize and connect with others.
During the opening ceremony, the mayor of Francisco Beltrão, Antonio Pedron, emphasized the importance of inclusive sports and acknowledged the participation of students from the Association of Parents and Friends of Exceptional Children (Apae). Organizers have already announced that the tenth edition of the Copa Down will take place in Foz do Iguaçu in 2027.
