National Veterans Wheelchair Games Heading to Alaska

June 6, 2006

World’s Largest Annual Wheelchair Sports Event

WASHINGTON – More than 500 veterans with disabilities will compete in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, being held July 3 - 8 in Anchorage, Alaska.  Now in its 26^th year, the event has become the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world.

“The camaraderie, athletic spirit and courage of these wheelchair athletes are an inspiration to us all,” said the Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs.  “We are proud of these talented athletes, our volunteers who make these Games possible and the communities that open their hearts to these heroes.' 

The Wheelchair Games, presented by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), are open to all U.S. military veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, certain neurological conditions, amputations or other mobility impairments.  The Alaska VA Healthcare System and the Northwest Chapter of PVA are hosting the 2006 games.

“PVA's association with the National Veterans Wheelchair Games is a natural fit," said PVA National President Randy L. Pleva, Sr.  "When PVA was established in 1946, the founding veterans were themselves wheelchair basketball players. The spirit of taking control of one's life and improving it has been passed down from one generation of paralyzed veterans to the next.  This year, as we celebrate PVA's 60^th anniversary, the desire to move forward and accomplish goals continues to drive the athletes and the Paralyzed Veterans of America.” 

Sports are important in the therapy used to treat many disabilities.  VA is a recognized leader in rehabilitation, with therapy programs available at VA health care facilities across the nation.  For many injured veterans, the Wheelchair Games provide the first exposure to wheelchair athletics.

At the Games, veterans will compete in track and field, swimming, basketball,  weightlifting, softball, air guns, quad rugby, bowling, table tennis, archery, handcycling, a motorized wheelchair rally, wheelchair slalom and power soccer.  A powerchair relay race will be held as an exhibition event this year.

The 26^th National Veterans Wheelchair Games begin July 3 with a quad rugby exhibition on the town square in Anchorage, as well as the 2006 Disabled Sports, Recreation and Fitness Expo, being held in the Egan Convention Center.  On July 4, the athletes will lead the annual Independence Day Parade in downtown Anchorage, followed by the handcycling event.  Kids Day takes place on July 6 at Bartlett High School, where local children, many with disabilities, will meet the athletes and learn about wheelchair sports.  

Opening and closing ceremonies will also be held at Sullivan Arena, along with some of the competitive events.  Most events will be held at the Egan Center, Bartlett High School, Cellular One Sports Center and other area venues.  Admission is free to the public and the community is most welcome to attend. 

For more information about the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, or to follow event results as they happen, visit the Games Web site at:  http://www.wheelchairgames.org

Media Inquiries:  

• Jim Benson, VA Public Affairs (202) 273-5705
• Kim Byers, VA Public Affairs (734) 761-7824
• David Uchic, PVA Communications (202) 416-7667

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