Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Mesa and Arizona Disabled Sports Hosting Special Ski Event

Arizona Disabled Sports and the City of Mesa are hosting a multi-day event, SkiAble, at Sunrise Ski Park in Greer from Feb. 22nd to Feb. 24th. Athletes with permanent physical disabilities can enjoy this downhill sport at all levels from beginner to advanced. The cost is $70 for a full day, $40 for a half day and includes a lift ticket, adaptive equipment and one-on-one instruction. Registration is online at arizonadisabledsports.com under “special events”. The last day to register is Feb. 13th.

“This annual event has been going on for a decade and it’s a phenomenal opportunity for individuals from across the state of Arizona to experience the thrill of the downhill sport.” Mesa Parks, Recreation and Commercial Facilities Recreation Programmer Susan Rossi said. “The adaptive one-on-one instructors help minimize any anxiety for those trying skiing for the first time.”

SkiAble is a part of the Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project, a partnership between Disabled Sports USA, Wounded Warrior Project and Arizona Disabled Sports, that provides year round sports programs for severely wounded service members from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts and the global war on terrorism.

The City of Mesa is also seeking volunteers for this event. Volunteers will assist in lessons, act as loaders at the lift and spotters on the hill. There is no cost for the training but you will be required to provide your own lodging, meals, transportation and ski equipment. Volunteers will receive a discounted lift ticket. To volunteer, contact Susan Rossi at (480) 644-5702.