32nd National Veterans Wheelchair Games Kick Off June 25 in Richmond

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Jun 20, 2012, 08:05 ET

Largest Annual Wheelchair Sports Event Returns to Richmond, June 25–30, 2012

WASHINGTON, June 20, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following event is being announced by Paralyzed Veterans of America:

WHO:

Department of Veterans Affairs
Paralyzed Veterans of America
Approximately 600 athletes, all military veterans in wheelchairs

WHAT:

The largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world—the National Veterans Wheelchair Games—will return to Richmond, VA, where the event first began 31 years ago. In 1981, 74 veterans from 14 states came together and competed in a range of sports, including table tennis, swimming and weightlifting. Today, as the Games return to Richmond, approximately 600 veteran athletes from across the United States, Puerto Rico and Great Britain will convene in Richmond to compete in what promises to be an exciting week of competition, camaraderie and fun.

The Wheelchair Games include in 17 events: air guns, archery, basketball, bowling, field, handcycling, a motorized wheelchair rally, nine ball, power soccer, quad rugby, slalom, softball, swimming, table tennis, track, trapshooting and weightlifting. This year's Games will also feature an exhibition game of boccia ball. Athletes compete in all events against others with similar athletic ability, competitive experience or age.

Highlights include the 2012 Disabled Sports, Recreation and Fitness Expo (June 25); Games Kickoff and Opening Ceremonies (June 25); and Kids Day at the Games (June 27), where local children with disabilities will meet some of the athletes and learn about adaptive sports.

Admission is free and open to the public. All are encouraged to attend. For more information, including a full schedule of events, please visit www.wheelchairgames.va.gov.

WHEN:

June 25–30, 2012

WHERE:

Events will be held at venues throughout Richmond, including: