Hatch, Isakson, Klobuchar, Bennet Designate July 29 as Paralympic and Adaptive Sport Day
Washington, D.C.— Today, US Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating July 29 as Paralympic and Adaptive Sport Day to celebrate Paralympic athletes and persons with disabilities.
“July 29, 1948 marks the date of the Opening Ceremony of the London 1948 Olympic Games where the first wheelchair competition was organized for the service men and women injured in World War II,” Senator Hatch said. “Today the Paralympians in the United States continue to achieve competitive excellence and inspire the world. I am pleased to designate July 29 as Paralympic and Adaptive Sport Day to increase awareness of these incredible athletes and to support the inclusion of all people in sports.”
“The dedication of the athletes competing in the Paralympic and Adaptive Sports Games serves as an inspiration to all of us,” Senator Isakson said. “As chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I am especially appreciative of the role the games have played in helping to rehabilitate our wounded warriors. I’m proud to introduce this Senate resolution acknowledging the spirit and importance of this event.”
“The athletes who compete in the Paralympic Games embody the best ideals of our country and the world—hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship,” Senator Klobuchar said. “As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Olympic and Paralympic Caucus, I’ll keep working to ensure that these inspiring athletes receive the support and recognition they deserve.”
“Paralympic and Adaptive Sports Day is a testament to the achievements of millions of athletes around the country,” Senator Bennet said. “Paralympic athletes showcase courage and determination, qualities we can all strive to emulate in our own lives. Celebrating the Paralympic community, which includes members of the Armed Forces and veterans, will encourage more young people to participate in Paralympic sports and build stronger communities.”
"All people want to do is to feel like they fit in and have something they can feel a part of,” Hunter Woodhall, two-time Paralympic medalist from Syracuse, Utah, said. “Sports are one of the best ways to bring people together. The Paralympic games have had an incredible impact on my life. The Paralympic movement gives people a sense of worth and a reason to follow their dreams regardless of their situation. I would like to thank Senator Hatch for his leadership on this resolution and being a champion for all athletes of all abilities."
Paralympic and Adaptive Sport Day:
