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In 1970, Hal O'Leary started offering ski lessons for children with amputations. That program has now grown to include a variety of disabilities. Said O'Leary, "If someone can make their way to our office, we can most likely get them on skis." More than 1,000 volunteers keep the program?which offers instruction in both recreation and competition?going. In the last 10 years, about 75% of the U. S. Disabled Ski team trained with NSCD in Winter Park. Adaptations include:
Three-track: One ski and two forearm crutches with ski tip for people with one stronger leg (for instance, leg amputations, post-polio)
Four-track: Two skis and two forearm crutches with ski tips on the end or a walker (works well for people with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, etc. with added control from a bungee cord between skis).
Bi-ski:A rigid seat mounted on skis.
Mono-ski: A seat mounted to a single ski with hand-held outriggers (harder to use than the bi-ski because it requires better strength and balance)
Guide: Voice instruction and touch (for people with visual impairment)
For more information, contact National Sports for the Disabled, 633 175th Street, #24, Denver, CO 80202, (303) 293-5711, (303) 292-5711. #371
Sports for everybody. (1999). Ability 99, 34-39.
Keyword: Recreation |
