2010 National Veterans Wheelchair Games

Link: http://www1.va.gov/opa/speceven/wcg/index.asp

What: A multi-event sports and rehabilitation program for military service veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, amputations, or certain neurological problems. Attracting more than 500 athletes each year, the National Veterans Wheelchair Games is the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world.

Where: Events will take place at the Colorado Convention Center, Apex Meyers Swimming Pool, Cherry Creek Family Shooting Center, and other area venues in and around Denver, Colorado

When: July 4-9, 2010

Why: The presenters of this event are committed to improving the quality of life for veterans with disabilities and fostering better health through sports competition. While past Games have produced a number of national and world-class champions, the Games also provide opportunities for newly disabled veterans to gain sports skills and be exposed to other wheelchair athletes. Typically, one quarter of the competitors have never before participated in any type of organized wheelchair sports competition.

Presenters: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), with financial assistance from corporate, civic and veteran service organizations.

Host: The VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System (VA ECHS), and the Paralyzed Veterans of America Mountain States Chapter.

Events: Competitive events at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games include air guns, archery, basketball, bowling, field events, handcycling, a motorized wheelchair rally, nine-ball, power soccer, quad rugby, slalom, softball, swimming, table tennis, track, trapshooting and weightlifting. A whitewater kayaking exhibition event will take place at Confluence Park. Athletes compete in all events against others with similar athletic ability, competitive experience or age.

Admission: Free. The public is most welcome.

Information: Amanda S. Eckman, Local Organizing Chair, 30th National Veterans Wheelchair Games Amanda.eckman@va.gov (720) 201-0455.

Media Contacts: 

Jordan Schupbach, VA ECHCS Public Affairs (303) 393-5205 Kim Byers, VA Public Affairs (734) 845-3377 Mark Daley, PVA Communications (202) 416-7681

For Additional Information: Visit the Games web site at www.wheelchairgames.va.gov