Disability Sport Wales
Chwaraeon Anabledd Cymru

UK Wheelchair Challenge 2010

2010 is a big year for sport: The Football World Cup in South Africa, the Commonwealth Games in India and Golf’s Ryder Cup in Wales to name but three. But for disabled people, there is an event that could be even bigger…

Later this year the UK will host the very first UK Wheelchair Challenge: a charity event exclusively for wheelchair users over 1km or 3km. The inaugural UK Wheelchair Challenge is sponsored by GM Coachwork – Greater Mobility and will take place on Sunday 19th September 2010 at Tudor Grange Park, Solihull. The UK Wheelchair Challenge promises to be an ambitious, fun and welcome addition to the disabled sporting calendar. Not only will 250 entrants get the chance to socialise in a recreational environment, they can also raise money for their favourite disabled charity by getting themselves sponsored to take part.

Being a wheelchair user does not mean you can’t be active or take part in an organised sporting event. The primary goals of the UK Wheelchair Challenge is therefore to motivate wheelchair users, encouraging them to get into sport and realise that they can set goals and challenges and reach them.

There will be two options open to entrants, both embracing a ‘non-competitive/taking part’ philosophy and catering for all levels of wheelchair ability. The 1km distance will be suitable for all wheelchair users with the emphasis on giving it a go and proving to themselves what they are capable of achieving. The 3km option is a more challenging distance for disabled sportsmen and women (amateur) who have trained adequately for the event.

Although the overall aim at the UK Wheelchair Challenge is for participation there is the option in the 3km distance for entrants to add an extra incentive for completing the course by bringing along a watch and timing themselves. Then competitors can return the following year hoping to complete the course in an even quicker time. Both events will take place on a safe and scenic, purpose built course, suitable for anyone in a wheelchair or power chair, regardless of ability, and if they are unable to propel themselves, on the 1km wheelchair challenge a parent or carer can assist.

Refreshments, entertainment and toilet facilities will be on site and there will also be an under-cover viewing enclosure. It promises to be a memorable day out for competitors and spectators alike and hopefully will set a precedent for similar events in the disabled community.

The Wheelchair Challenge is being organised by Sally Raynes from Wacky Nation Events, based in Devon, who specialises in unusual and fun sports events. ‘It’s a privilege to be able to work with GM Coachwork’s in this ground breaking venture which will allow a much neglected demographic to participate in a serious but fun challenge and perhaps kick start a new sporty lifestyle for many. Hopefully in a few years time wheelchair races at grass roots level will be just as popular as fun-runs and other able-bodied sporting events, which would be quite an achievement,’ says Sally.

If you would like to find out more and register to take part, you can visit: www.ukwheelchairchallenge.com

Wacky Nation
www.wackynation.com
wackynation@hotmail.com
Phone: 07980 287031

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