The pilot implementation of the Inclusive Sports European Model, developed with the expertise, work, and contributions of the EU Join Us project partners, was organized by the Türkiye Down Syndrome Association in collaboration with the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Hasan Doğan Sports Complex. 

The Inclusive Sports European Model training, provided through the EU Join Us website, was carefully conducted by sports coaches while ensuring the numerical balance between individuals with Down syndrome or individuals with other intellectual special needs and typically developing individuals, as well as gender balance among the participants. 

The inclusive sports activities took place on July 21, 2024. A total of 114 individuals participated in these activities, consisting of individuals with Down syndrome or individuals with other intellectual special needs and typically developing individuals participants. They came together for basketball, table tennis, and Zumba with equal participation, without discrimination. 

Overall, participants, sports coaches, and the relatives of those observing the sports activities expressed that these inclusive sports events should reach a broader audience and be organized regularly. The sports activities were evaluated as effective, awareness-raising, and impactful events with a positive effect.