Fact Sheet
What:
The 23rd National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic is the world leader in promoting rehabilitation by instructing veterans with disabilities in adaptive Alpine and Nordic skiing, and introducing them to a number of other adaptive recreational activities and sports. For many newly injured veterans, including increasing numbers injured in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Clinic offers their first experience in winter sports and gives them the inspiration to take their rehabilitation to a higher level.
When:
March 29 – April 3, 2009
Where:
Snowmass Village, Colorado
Who:
Participation is open to U.S. military service veterans with traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, orthopedic amputations, visual impairments, certain neurological problems and other disabilities. Veterans who receive health care at a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facility have first priority. In addition, a number of active duty military personnel from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom have attended in recent years. More than 200 certified ski instructors for the disabled, and several current and former members of the U.S. Disabled Ski Team, serve as ski instructors to meet the unique needs of the participants. For the third year, a race training and development program will again be held to help veterans develop their skiing abilities to an elite level, with an ultimate goal of qualifying for the U.S. Paralympic Team. More than 400 participants from across the country are expected to attend the Clinic this year.
Why:
The Winter Sports Clinic provides veterans with disabilities an opportunity for self-development and challenge through sports and leisure activities. In 2008, 124 newly injured military personnel participated in the Clinic – many for the first time, with more expected in 2009. At the Clinic, all participants are able to develop winter sports skills and take part in a variety of adaptive workshops, which demonstrate that having a physical or visual disability need not be an obstacle to an active, rewarding life.
Sponsors & Hosts:
Sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) with financial assistance from corporate sponsors and individual donors. The Grand Junction, Colorado VA Medical Center and VA’s Rocky Mountain Network host the event.
Events:
Adaptive skiing with mono-skis and bi-skis; instruction in adaptive Alpine (downhill) and Nordic (cross-country) skiing for stand-up skiers, including the visually impaired; alternate activities including scuba diving, sled hockey, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, rock climbing, trap shooting, fencing, golf, Snow Cat/Gondola Rides and a trip to the Hot Springs; plus educational and instructional workshops on self-defense and other stimulating topics.
Program Contact:
VA National Director, Winter Sports Clinic: Sandy Trombetta (970) 244-1314
Sponsor Contact:
DAV National Director, Voluntary Services: Ed Hartman (202) 314-5246
Media Contacts:
VA Public Affairs: Richard Olague (202) 461-7541
DAV Communications: Rob Lewis (859) 442-2049
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