2013 Deaflympics: Sofia, Bulgaria 26 July to 4 August

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2013/05/31 - Updated: 2013/07/13
Category Topic: Deaflympics - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: The 2013 Summer Deaflympics will be held in Sofia, Bulgaria 26 July to 4 August.

Introduction

Main Content

ICSD is pleased to confirm the sports that will feature in the Sofia 2013 Deaflympics, and they are Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Cycling, Football, Handball, Judo, Karate, Orienteering, Shooting, Swimming, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Volleyball and Wrestling. We are expecting record numbers of competitors in these sports.

The Deaflympics (previously called World Games for the Deaf, and International Games for the Deaf) are an IOC-sanctioned event at which deaf athletes compete at an elite level. The games have been organized by the Comite International des Sports des Sourds (CISS, "The International Committee of Sports for the Deaf") since the first event.

As the Deaf athletes possess no physical or mental disabilities, but only hearing loss, they are not eligible to participate in the Paralympic Games; instead, they come together in their own competitions designed specifically to satisfy their physical, psychological, and social needs.

To qualify for the Deaflympics, athletes must have a hearing loss of at least 55 db in their "better ear". Hearing aids, cochlear implants etc. are not allowed to be used, in order to place all athletes on the same level, as the communication between athletes and trainers or team-mates is prevented during the competition.

The use of sign language is allowed, as it can be used by everybody, provided they can see, and it constitutes the language of the community of the deaf people, which most athletes prefer.

The 20 summer Deaflympic events include athletics, badminton, handball, judo, karate, orienteering, shooting, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, basketball, beach volleyball, bowling, cycling road, football, tennis, volleyball, water polo, wrestling freestyle, wrestling Greco-Roman.

Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.