Vetetans Wheelchair Games

The largest annual wheelchair sports competition in the world, this event offers 17 different sports to Veterans who use wheelchairs due to spinal cord injuries, amputations and neurological diseases. The Games promote rehabilitation through rigorous competition in such events as basketball, rugby, softball, handcycling and others.
While past Games have produced 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.

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 David L. Lawrence Convention Center, University of Pittsburgh’s Trees Hall, Princess Lanes Bowling Center and other area venues in and around Pittsburgh, Pa.
When: August 1-6, 2011
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.
Hosts: VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (VAPHS) and the Keystone Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
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 Athletes compete in all events against others with similar athletic ability, competitive experience or age.
Admission: Free. The public is most welcome.
Information:
William Leuthold, 2011 Games chairperson, william.leuthold@va.gov and (412) 954-4834
Michael Clark, 2011 Games executive assistant, michael.clark3@va.gov and (412) 954-5600.
Media Contacts:
David Cowgill, VAPHS public affairs, 412-822-3578
Susan Varcie, VA public affairs, 734-845-3706 or 734-417-6260
Mark Daley, PVA communications, 202-379-8318
For Additional Information: Visit the Games website at www.wheelchairgames.va.gov
Presented by the Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Department of Veterans Affairs.