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The following is a news release from Valley Adaptive Sports.
DRIGGS — Valley Adaptive Sports, a non-profit organization based in Driggs, was recently awarded a $20,000 grant from The Hartford for new adaptive sports equipment.
The grant enabled Valley Adaptive Sports (VAS), a member of the Move United member network, to purchase adaptive sports equipment, including a Tessier Know Kart for use by Grand Targhee Resort Mountain Sport School for adaptive ski lessons, sled hockey equipment for Kotler Arena and Idaho Falls Tautphaus Arena, adaptive Nordic ski equipment, and additional adaptive downhill ski equipment.
The Hartford also surprised two adaptive athletes with new equipment. Gus Long, a 7-year-old athlete who participates in skiing and biking, was surprised with a set of new ski equipment and a new mountain bike.
Gus said, “I love to ski and bike and be nice to people.”
Erika, Gus’ mom, stated, “We’re excited to have Gus participate and keep trying more activities. This equipment will be great for him as he grows into it for next season.”
Another athlete, Brooke Nelson, recieved a custom sports wheelchair designed for pickleball and basketball.
“With this new chair I’m excited to get out and play with friends and my kids. Today was amazing. I skied the (Tessier) Snow Kart from the summit of the ‘Ghee today with Avery from the Mountain Sports School. It has been 8 years since my injury when I skied here all the time. It was fun to see the summit again,” she said.
“This year, a greater number of athletes from various sports have had the opportunity to ski, play sled hockey, and enjoy the outdoors. We are excited to continue expanding accessible recreation opportunities in eastern Idaho. Our heartfelt thanks go to Move United and The Hartford for their unwavering commitment to adaptive sports,” said Nate Carey, Executive Director of VAS. “We see the benefits of recreation in the physical and mental health of our participants. The families are outside doing, and creating a personal connection with the outdoors. We look forward to serving more people.”
From Josh LaForest, Director of the Mountain Sports School at GTR. “It is my honor and professional prerogative to do everything I can to support our adaptive guests. It’s truly inspiring to support this program and ensure that everyone can access the beauty of the mountains at an affordable price. We sincerely appreciate the knowledge, resources and support that VAS, Move United and (the) Hartford organizations provide our program and guests”.
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