Road cycling will join the sports programme for October’s Asian Para Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, following approval at the Asian Paralympic Committee’s (APC) Executive Board meeting in late June.

The Board agreed the inclusion of the sport following the Organising Committee’s proposal and the interest shown by 10 National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) and more than 60 athletes.

“We hope that the inclusion of the road race cycling is going to be one of the exciting competitions at the Jakarta Games,” APC President Majid Rashed said.

“The Games is definitely going to change the mindset of the people, create a legacy and awareness not just in Indonesia but across Asia."

Rashed also expressed his satisfaction at preparations for the Games.

“The Games is definitely going to change the mindset of the people, create a legacy and awareness not just in Indonesia but across Asia.

“We will help to create a sustainable friendly life for people with impairment. It’s important to have the right people with a positive attitude who are taking the responsibility to make the Games successful. I am sure the Games will create history for Indonesia.”

Fourteen members, including representatives from South Asia, South East Asia, West Asia and East Asia, attended the 18th Executive Board meeting, which also saw the presence of Indonesia 2018 Asian Para Games Organising Committee Chair Raja Sapta Oktohari; and Secretary of the Indonesian Ministry of Youth and Sports Gatot Dewa Broto.

The meeting heard updates on the new Strategic Plan (2019-2021), Standing Committees Reports and the General Assembly 2019, where elections for a new Board will take place.

They were also briefed on the progress of Indonesia 2018.

Oktohari said: “We have come this far with all your support. We still have much to do to ensure the delivery of a successful Games but since the last Board meeting in Dubai we have worked hard on three focus areas: Games, Para Games Village and Transportation. We have found ways now to overcome the issues and go forward.

“I want to thank Mr. Majid, who has supported us in every way. With APC standing with us, we feel stronger.”

The board will meet next before the Asian Para Games, which will be held from 6-13 October.