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WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. Wheels will be rolling at top speeds in the hands of world-class athletes on Saturday when The Burke Rehabilitation Hospital hosts its 32nd Wheelchair Games on the hospitals main campus.
Over the years, the wheelchair games have become a tradition for wheelchair athletes from the tri-state area and Burke is proud to be the host for all these years, said Tracey Bogart, the event co-chair. Additionally, members of the community are invited to attend to cheer on the athletes, participate in the festivities and enjoy the sense of community the games create for all who attend.
The Wheelchair Games provide a competitive arena for disabled athletes to compete in a variety of track, field and table tennis events. Known for therapeutic benefits, wheelchair sports also build strength, coordination, endurance and self-confidence.
More than 75 athletes are expected to compete in the games, which will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the 785 Mamaroneck Ave. campus in White Plains. Participants are grouped into four classes according to age and ability - a future division for children ages six and younger, a junior division that covers ages seven through 21, the adult division for ages 22 to 39, and the master division for those over 40.
Field events include club, softball, javelin, shot put, and discus. Helmets are required for track and slalom events. The track events include 20, 40, 60, 100, 400, 800, and 1,500 meter races and the slalom, an obstacle course. Table tennis is also featured at the games.
The registration fee is $25 for athletes. The fee includes lunch for athletes. Financial assistance is available for who cannot afford the registration fee so all are encouraged to participate in this event. Admission is free for spectators and the general public.
The day also features carnival games, live entertainment and raffles. The Games start promptly at 9 a.m. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and athletes who have not participated before are asked to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled event for classification.
The Games will be held rain or shine.
For more information and registration call the Burke Wheelchair Games 2011 hotline at (914) 597-2850 or visit www.burke.org.
Those who wish to sponsor an athlete or donate to the games should call Burkes Chief Development Officer Jenny Lewis at 597-2348. If you would like to volunteer your time and assist the day of the games, please contact Sandra Alexandrou at 597-2581.
Have you seen the games? Do you want to volunteer? Comment below or on Facebook.
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