Leland veteran among 6 NC veterans set to compete in Michigan for annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games
DETROIT, MI (WWAY) — Six veterans from North Carolina are set to compete in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, taking place July 9-14 in Detroit.
Among them is 54-year-old Freddie Smith of Leland. The other five are Booker Foster, Ronald Richardson, Terence Smith, Thomas Massey, and Takeyla Adams.
The annual event, co-presented by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, brings together veterans who use wheelchairs for athletic competition. About 500 veterans from across the country are expected to participate, with support from approximately 3,000 volunteers and sponsors.
Competitors will take part in a variety of adaptive sports, including wheelchair basketball, softball and wheelchair rugby.
The National Veterans Wheelchair Games began in 1981 and are designed to promote rehabilitation, fitness and independence through adaptive sports and recreation. Organizers say the event gives veterans an opportunity to build confidence and demonstrate the role sports can play in recovery and long-term health.
