Forest Park

The Daily Plant : Monday, April 6, 2009

Parks & Recreation Partners With U.S. Paralympics To Present Paralympic Sport Training Program

Training Program Just One of the Many Ways Disabled New Yorkers Stay Active this Spring

On April 4, the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation and U.S. Paralympics began an eight-week program at Victory Field Track in Forest Park, Queens, to introduce Paralympic soccer and track & field to teens and young adults with Cerebral Palsy, traumatic brain injury, stroke survivors and others with physical disabilities. Activities will continue to take place every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. through May 23, and are provided free of charge to participants. Participants should be able to walk independently, with crutches or with a walker.

“Once again, Parks is proud to partner with U.S. Paralympics to provide free track & field and soccer training to New Yorkers affected by Cerebral Palsy, traumatic brain injury, and strokes” said Commissioner Benepe. “In addition to staying active for their health, these athletes can show off their talents and learn new skills at Forest Park in hopes of one day ‘going for the gold’ in Paralympic competition. This program is yet another example of Parks’ commitment to providing fun and free fitness opportunities to ALL New Yorkers.”

“The Paralympic Academy program encourages physical fitness and overall well-being in children with physical disabilities, and we are thrilled to be working with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation on this initiative,” said Charlie Huebner, USOC Chief of Paralympics. “Research shows that youth with physical disabilities who participate in physical activity are healthier, more successful in school and have an enhanced quality of life.”

The Parks Department’s goal is to provide access and opportunity, going above and beyond mere compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide access as well as increased opportunities for recreation and participation. Visit us at www.nyc.gov/parks for more information on accessibility, including playgrounds and centers with programming and field trips, free Aquatic Therapy Instruction, Wheelchair Basketball and Football, Quad Rugby, and more.

About U.S. Paralympics:
U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee, is dedicated to becoming the world leader in the Paralympic sports movement and to promoting excellence in the lives of persons with physical disabilities. Visit the U.S. Paralympics website at www.usparalympics.org

QUOTATION FOR THE DAY

“Education is when you read the fine print. Experience is what you get if you don’t.”

Pete Seeger
(1919 - )