San Diego VA Healthcare system hosted the first National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic in San Diego September 28 – October 3, 2008.  Recently injured combat veterans from around the country participate in a rehabilitation clinic.  The events are sailing, kayaking, surfing, cycling, and track-field events.   

Participation is open to U.S. military service veterans with orthopedic
amputations, traumatic brain injuries, burn injuries, psychological
trauma, certain neurological conditions, visual impairment, spinal cord
injuries and other recently incurred disabilities.

                         
Events &
Venues                Surfing – La    Jolla Shores
                           Sailing – San    Diego Harbor
                           Cycling – South Park on Embarcadero  across from Marriott Hotel
                           Kayaking  – Mission Bay Yacht Club
                           Track  & Field – Olympic Training Center, Chula    Vista
                           (Javelin,  Discus, Shot-put, & Track events)

Composite by Cass Greene ©2008

My husband's company, Booz Allen Hamilton was one of the sponsors providing food for two of the venues and he volunteered at the Surfing Clinic lunch time at LaJolla Shores.

Working with Association of Amputee Surfers and other organizations,  there were professional surfers from Hawaii teaching and many volunteer surfers to assist in and out of the water.

Everyone was so friendly, happy to be outside on such a beautiful day!  I enjoyed the photo opportunity  and talking with these great veterans and volunteers.  What amazing stories…. We are eternally grateful for the sacrafices these people have made for us in America!

Nikon D80 ©Cass Greene 2008  All rights reserved