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Rudy Yanuck with tetherer Matthew Weber preparing to ski.
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History of Adaptive Skiing
The roots of adaptive skiing stem from combat injuries. Disabled European veterans were the first to discover the benefits of skiing as they looked for rehabilitation and recreation opportunities after returning from World War II.
In 1942, Franz Wendel was the first disabled person to enter a skiing competition. After suffering a leg amputation in the war, he fashioned a pair of crutches and attached them to short skis enabling him to crutch ski.
By the late 1940's the Austrian Ski Association was financing a division for handicapped skiers. Simultaneously, European and American programs began to develop at army hospitals. The Viet Nam War produced many unfortunate casualties, but provided a boost to the development of adaptive skiing. Equipment and facilities have continued to grow and improve in recent years.
A new era began in 1983 when the International Olympic Committe sanctioned the Third World Winter Games for the Disabled. Not only did this boost the prestige of the program, it also helped to promote fundraising efforts and program development worldwide. The Third World Disableld Ski Championships were held in 1986 in Sweden and the United States placed first. Since 1992, the paralympics has been established as the Olympics for disabled skiers.
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Skiing is one of many sports that can be enjoyed by people with disabilities. It is a sport which can be joined for recreation, exercise, as a social event, or for athletic competition.
With the proper adaptive equipment and trained instructors, athletes can successfully learn a sport-almost any sport- in one day. This success provides a foundation for the development of a positive self-image and outlook on life.
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Join the Fun
Athletes and Volunteers
Register Now
gdsp.org@hotmail.com
636 938-6478
GDSP
5924 Flint Ridge Road
Pacific, Missouri 63069
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