Shaurya Sanyal, a grade 10 student studying at Hiranandani Upscale School, will be organising – Off The Beaten Track, as a part of his IB (International Board) Personal Project. The project needs to be a large scale event where the student needs to plan, organise, and execute an event. Shaurya’s event is to be held at the school on Dec.11, 2023. The project, where children with special needs celebrate their inner champion, is an event tailored for them, keeping in mind their special needs. Shaurya aims to create an environment where children with diverse abilities can have fun participating in track and field, and experience the physical and social benefits of being active, while promoting inclusivity and empathy in our community.
Having visited orphanages and institutions for the differently abled with his mother and grandmother, or sometimes even as a sheer personal social service, is part of his upbringing. Feeding these children with a meal and giving them his used toys is a captivating experience. Ironically, special children make me feel special when I’m around them and it’s a feeling that I would love to return, says Shaurya .
The track and field formats for the event:
● Adapted Running Races: 50m 100m 200m
● Assisted Running: Relay races with a buddy or guide
● Adapted High jump and long jumps
● Balance Beam: Short balance beams with assistance if needed
● Obstacle Course: Incorporating a variety of movements and challenges
The students attending this event are from the school Alpha to Omega Learning Centre school.
To augment the required necessities like refreshments for volunteers and participants, merchandise, medals and trophies for the inclusivity of the event, sports and sports-adjacent brands have been roped in as sponsors.