Vet News: 2007 National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic

What:
The 21st National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic promotes 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 OIF/OEF military service men and women, the Clinic offers their first experience in winter sports and gives them the inspiration to take their rehabilitation to a higher level.

Where:
Snowmass Village, Colorado

When:
April 1-6, 2007

Who:
Participation is open to U.S. military service Veterans with 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, will serve as ski instructors. This year, a race training and development program will be held to help Veterans develop their skiing abilities to an elite level, with an ultimate goal of qualifying for U.S. Paralympic Team participation. Nearly 400 participants from across the country are expected to attend the Clinic this year.

Why:
The Winter Sports Clinic provides disabled Veterans with opportunities for self-development and challenge through sports and leisure activities. In 2006, more than 70 newly injured military personnel from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom will participate – many for the first time. 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/Host:
Department of Veterans Affairs and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) with financial assistance from corporate sponsors and individual donors. Hosted by the Grand Junction, Colorado VA Medical Center and VA’s Rocky Mountain Network.

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 Contacts:
VA National Director, Winter Sports Clinic:
Sandy Trombetta (970) 244-1314

Sponsor Contacts:
DAV National Director, Voluntary Services:
Ed Hartman (202) 314-5246

Media Contacts:
VA Public Affairs:
Jenny Tankersley Ballou (757) 728-3450; or (757) 254-6058 (cell)
DAV Communications:
Rob Lewis (859) 442-2049

SOURCE: US Department of Veterans Affairs