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Media

National Veterans Wheelchair Games

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
Tampa, Florida.

When
July 13-18, 2013

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
James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital and Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of 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.

Contact Information

Local Host Coordinator: Jeanene LeSure
James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, 813-972-2000 ext 3822, or 813-610-6437


Paralyzed Veterans of America Sports and Recreation Program:
Mary Hobbs
800-424-8200, ext. 752, or 202-416-7752

Media Contacts

Public Affairs Coordinator: Jordan Schupbach
202-664-3733

Paralyzed Veterans of America Communications: Mark Daley
(202) 379-8318

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