GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WILX) - The Hartford Nationals, the largest and longest-running national championship event for athletes with disabilities, is taking place this year in Grand Rapids from July 11-17.
The event features athletes with a physical disability, visual impairment, and/or intellectual disability competing in sports such as archery, para powerlifting, shooting, swimming, track and field, and both wheelchair and para-standing tennis.
Athletes must have qualified through one of the sanctioned competitions that took place across the country.
In 2024, 397 athletes with disabilities and 150 coaches participated, and those numbers are expected to grow this year.
“The Hartford Nationals is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of resilience, excellence, and community,” said The Hartford’s Chief Marketing and Customer Officer, Claire Burns.
During the event, Paralympic gold medalist and wheelchair basketball player Matt Scott will surprise four athletes with customized adaptive sports equipment.
Another athlete will have the opportunity to be nominated by their peers to receive The Hartford’s Human Achievement Award, which recognizes someone who exemplifies the spirit of the adaptive sports movement and is a role model to others. The award includes a $2,500 grant to help support the athlete’s training and travel as they pursue their goals.
More than 600 volunteers are needed to support the week-long competition. Those interested can learn more at TheHartfordNationals.org.
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