Veteran wheelchair games begin July 4 in Denver Published June 9, 2010 WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- More than 500 wheelchair athletes who are all military veterans are headed to Denver to begin competition at the 30th National Veterans Wheelchair Games. The event, presented each year by officials of the Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, runs July 4 through July 9. "Honoring those who have given so much to this nation is appropriate on the day we celebrate America's independence," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "The National Veterans Wheelchair Games exemplify America's commitment to its disabled veterans and the continuing heroism of these men and women." The games provide an annual multi-event sports rehabilitation program that is open to veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, amputations or certain neurological problems and who receive care at any VA medical facility. Athletes attending can be first-time wheelchair athletes or experienced Paralympians. Six of this year's participants have previously competed at the world-class Paralympic level. "Independence Day is the perfect day to kick off this year's National Veterans Wheelchair Games," said Gene A. Crayton, national president of Paralyzed Veterans of America. "For 30 years, the wheelchair games have helped to empower thousands of paralyzed veterans to get back into life after serious injury, and to eventually lead full and independent lives." Veterans will compete in 17 different events, including air gun marksmanship, archery, basketball, bowling, field events, handcycling, nine-ball, a motorized wheelchair relay, power soccer, quad rugby, softball, swimming, table tennis, track, trapshooting, weightlifting and wheelchair slalom. This year, an exhibition event will also be held in kayaking. The wheelchair games begin July 4 with a quad rugby demonstration in Civic Center Park in downtown Denver. Kids Day at the games takes place July 8, at City Park, where local children with disabilities will meet the athletes and learn about wheelchair sports. Other events will be held at various area venues. Admission is free to the public and local attendance is encouraged. Officials from the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System in Denver and the Mountain States Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America are hosting the 2010 Games. For many injured veterans, the wheelchair games provide their first exposure to wheelchair athletics. For more information about the National Veterans Wheelchair Games or to volunteer during the week, visit the wheelchair games website at www.wheelchairgames.va.gov.