For the past 35 years the Sports Ability Games has served as an inspiring 3-day series of athletic events for youth athletes with physical disabilities. These events welcome young athletes who wish to compete, regardless of their level of experience. The Sports Ability Games provides participants the opportunity to try new activities, challenge themselves, and make new friends in a fun and safe environment.
The Sports Ability Games, which are celebrating its 35th anniversary, get under way with a sailing regatta at Shake-A-Leg Miami on Thursday, December 1st, followed by a swim meet at Gulliver Preparatory School on December 2nd. The Games conclude with a track & field event at Tropical Park Stadium on Saturday, December 3rd. Each event location provides a venue for disabled children to compete in sporting events at their own developmental level, while meeting and interacting with other children who may share similar physical challenges.
For many of the athletes, this is the first opportunity to participate in competitive sports. The essence of the event does not revolve around winning, but instead focuses on sportsmanship and motivating the children to realize their true potential. Children who participate are not measured against each other, but are encouraged to push themselves beyond their own personal boundaries.
The three-day event typically draws over 300 athletes, more than 200 volunteers, and hundreds of family members and friends who come out to support the athletes and witness this amazing event. For information on how to participate or volunteer at the Sports Ability Games please visit www.jrorangebowl.org/sports-ability.
The Junior Orange Bowl is best known for hosting more than 7,500 youth participants in 15 athletic, academic, and cultural events throughout the year.
Some Junior Orange Bowl highlights for the 2016 – 2017 season are the International Tennis Championship, the International Golf Championship, and the Basketball Classic, all of which are taking place during the month of December. The 3rd Annual Gala, will be held on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at the new EAST Miami. For information on all Junior Orange Bowl events visit www.jrorangebowl.org or call 305-662-1210.
