World Sport Chicago, the legacy of Chicago’s bid for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, is proud to host the second annual Valor Games Midwest, Monday, August 13th through Wednesday, August 15th, 2012. The goal of the event is to provide an introductory adaptive sports competition for wounded, ill or injured veterans and active duty service members from across the Midwest. Promoting healthy, active lifestyles is important to successful community reintegration and overall life satisfaction and World Sport Chicago is proud to support such endeavors. This regional event is being organized in partnership with U.S. Paralympics, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Chicago Park District.

The event begins at the historic Soldier Field on August 13th with Opening Ceremonies and field event competitions. Athletes will also have access to American Freedom Foundation’s Veterans Hiring Event, presented by CareerBuilder, resource expo and Paralympic sport demonstrations. The second day of competition features a cycling criterium in the parking lot at US Cellular Field. Various types of cycling equipment will be used, including: typical upright bicycles, recumbent bikes, handcycles and tandem bikes. Archery will also be contested at this venue, in left field. Competition on the third and final day will include powerlifting and indoor rowing opportunities at Armour Square Park.

Athletes also have the opportunity to participate in an introductory sports camp, hosted by the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, immediately prior to the Valor Games Midwest. If you would like to apply for both camp and the Valor Games Midwest, click here.

Resources will be available to the athletes to learn more about sport opportunities in their local communities. Athletes may be active duty or veterans from any era. Their disabilities may include: amputation/limb loss, post traumatic stress, spinal cord injuries, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, visual disabilities, or any disability rating from the VA.