23 August 2011 / Team Chicago supports Midwest Valor Games

Info from World Sport Chicago via FGG member Team Chicago about a sporting event for wounded and disabled current and former US military persons. 

Also note: We are looking for stories of wounded or disabled military personnel training for Gay Games 9. Please contact Kelly at kstevens@gaygames.org if you would like to share your story.

World Sport Chicago, the legacy of Chicago’s bid for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, is proud to host the inaugural Valor Games – Midwest, a three day competition for wounded, ill or injured veterans and active duty service members. The goal of the event, running from Tuesday, August 23, 2011 through Thursday, August 25th, 2011, is to provide an incredible sport competition in Chicago for wounded, ill or injured veterans and active duty service members from across the Midwest. Promoting healthy, active lifestyles is important to successful community reintegration and overall life satisfaction and we are proud to support such endeavors. This is the first regional event of its kind in the country and is being organized by World Sport Chicago in partnership with the Chicago Park District, the Save Foundation, ISFA and U.S. Paralympics.

The event begins at the historic Soldier Field on August 23 with Opening Ceremonies and field event competitions. Athletes will also have access to the Illinois Warrior Summit (www.illinoiswarriorsummit.com), Welcome Home celebration from the VA, and Paralympic sport demonstrations. The second day of competition features a cycling criterium in a parking lot at US Cellular Field. Various types of cycling equipment will be used, including: typical upright bicycles, recumbent bikes, handcycles and tandem bikes. Archery will also be contested at this venue, in left field. Competition on the third and final day will include powerlifting and virtual rowing opportunities.

Resources will be available to the athletes to learn more about sport opportunities in their local communities. Athletes may be active duty or veterans from any era. Their disabilities may include: amputees, post traumatic stress, spinal cord injuries, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, visual disabilities, or any disability rating from the VA.