31st National Veterans Wheelchair Games Kicks Off August 1 in Pittsburgh

Largest Annual Wheelchair Sporting Event Comes to Pittsburgh, August 1–6

PITTSBURGH, July 13, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is being released by the Paralyzed Veterans of America:

WHO: Paralyzed Veterans of America
Department of Veterans Affairs
More than 600 athletes, all military veterans in wheelchairs

WHAT: More than 600 wheelchair athletes from across the United States, Puerto Rico and Great Britain, will convene in Pittsburgh for the 31st National Veterans Wheelchair Games. From the Greatest Generation to the latest generation, competing veterans will go for the gold to test their mettle and determination. Among the newest competitors will be veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

The Games include 17 competitive events, such as quad rugby, wheelchair slalom and basketball. Some contestants are first-time, newly injured veterans; others are world-class Paralympians—and all have a story to tell.

Highlights include the 2011 Disabled Sports, Recreation and Fitness Expo (August 1); Games Kickoff and Opening Ceremonies (August 1); and Kids Day at the Games (August 5), where local children with disabilities will meet the athletes and learn about wheelchair sports.

Admission is free and all are encouraged to attend. For more information, visit www.wheelchairgames.va.gov or www.pva.org/2011Games.

WHEN: August 1–6, 2011

WHERE: Events will be held at venues throughout Pittsburgh, including:
David L. Lawrence Convention Center
University of Pittsburgh
Clairton Sportsmen's Club
North Shore
Princess Lanes

SOURCE Paralyzed Veterans of America