Track and Field Clinic Scheduled for Individuals with Disabilities

LOMA LINDA >> Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities, powered by Quest Diagnostics, is co-hosting a free Paralympic track and field clinic for individuals with disabilities Sunday, April 17, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at University of Redlands Ashel Cunningham Track, inside Ted Runner Stadium, 1200 Colton Ave. U.S. Paralympics and USA Paralympic Track and Field National Team coaches will be dedicating their time and talent for a training and educational day. They hope to facilitate the growth of Paralympic track and field programs and competition for individuals with physical and visual impairment with the support of Paralympic sport clubs like PossAbilities. “The U.S. Paralympic Team strives to be the best in the world,” said Rick Adams, chief of Paralympic Sport and NGB Organizational Development. “But we cannot get to the top of the podium without the help of community partners like Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities. With PossAbilities’ help in hosting this U.S. Paralympic track and field clinic, U.S. Paralympics might find the next great Paralympic champion in your backyard.” In support of the recently announced Inclusive Sports program by the California Interscholastic Federation, join U.S. Paralympics and U.S. Paralympic Track and Field National Team coaches for a training and educational afternoon at University of Redlands. The session will cover training modifications and best practices for Paralympic-eligible track and field athletes including wheelchair racing, Para-ambulatory racing, seated and Para-ambulatory throws and practical instruction for coaches and athletes. Cotie Williams, manager of PossAbilities said, “This session is open to area track and field coaches, Paralympic Sport Club representatives, VA Medical Center and Veteran Service Organization professionals, local school systems, rehabilitation hospital professionals, and sport and disability professionals interested in Paralympic track and field.” The training aims to provide access to coach education and certification material for more qualified coaching; to facilitate the connection of USA Paralympic track and field to Paralympic partners and coaches for the purpose of athlete development and future collaborations; and to provide Paralympic partners and area coaches the knowledge and resources for athlete development in Paralympic track and field. Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities is a community outreach program developed by Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus. The free program’s goal is to offer disabled individuals who were born with or have permanent physical injury a sense of community, as well as offer activities and practical direction to help them lead an active, fulfilling life. To join PossAbilities and/or register for the clinic, call (909) 558-6384.