U.S. Paralympics Launches First of its kind Events and Organizations Database

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2008

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee, has launched its first-ever Paralympic Activity Network, a comprehensive events and competition database. The Network will allow individuals seeking data on Paralympic sporting events, competitions and organizations access to a one-stop informational resource.

U.S. Paralympics created the Paralympic Activity Network with the goal of establishing one online destination where potential athletes, Paralympic organizations, schools and associations can connect and share information on sports programming for people with a physical disability. The idea was formed out of the need to establish and create a pipeline to link everyone interested in getting involved in Paralympic sport.

“My hope is that the Paralympic Activity Network will allow potential athletes to find more information about Paralympic sport,” said Paralympian April Holmes (2004/track & field). “I was fortunate to learn about Paralympic sport through my doctor after I was injured, but had trouble finding events. A resource like this would be invaluable to athletes searching for events and organizations not only in their hometowns, but across the country. And the best part is - it’s not just for elite athletes, but athletes of all levels.”

Using the new technology, potential athletes, parents and members of Paralympic organizations across the country can register online, day or night, right from the U.S. Paralympics Web site (www.usparalympics.org). Members can enter their data into the online application form. Once registered, users can create a profile, including information about their organization and upcoming events. Users can search the Network to find organizations by location and events by date, sport and competition level.

In order to create a robust resource, U.S. Paralympics is asking Paralympic organizations and associations around the country that provide programming for people with a physical disability to get connected. The Paralympic Activity Network can be accessed by visiting U.S. Paralympics’ official Web site, usparalympics.org. Interested parties can click on the link to the Network that is located on the left hand side of the homepage.

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 a physical disability. Visit the U.S. Paralympics website at www.usparalympics.org.