GALVESTON – For the first time in its 22-year history, Moody Gardens’ annual Adaptive Water Sports Festival is teaming up with the U.S. Paralympics for a unique experience for individuals with special needs.
The Festival allows participants to experience several water sports, including water skiing, sailing and kayaking, with the assistances of special equipment and instructors. The U.S. Paralympics team, TRR Texas, will also demonstrate its skills with a kayaking time trial as part of the Paralympic Experience.
The event is scheduled for Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Moody Gardens’ Palm Beach. It is free of charge to the individual with special needs and immediate family members on a first come, first serve basis.
Pre-registration is required, with forms currently available at moodygardens.org.
“This is a great way to have something free for individuals with disabilities,” Moody Gardens Volunteer Coordinator Maria Miller said. “On top of that, the families are welcome to come out and enjoy Palm Beach. It’s a way to do something special as a family and not have to worry about the cost.”
In addition to participating in the different water sporting events, participants will be able to interact with Paralympics athletes and coaches. Representatives from the Extremity Games, an extreme sports competition for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference, will also have demonstrations at the Festival.
“The Paralympic Experience program encourages physical fitness and overall well-being in individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments,” USOC Chief of Paralympics Charlie Huebner said. “Research shows that individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments who participate in physical activity are healthier, more successful in school and at their jobs, and have an enhanced quality of life.”
Family members can enjoy Palm Beach as Sports Fest participants utilize the special equipment and services provided by partnering organizations. Children ages 9 and older will be allowed to water ski. The event schedule is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Organizations providing activities for the Adaptive Water Sports Festival include TurningPoint Gulf Coast (handcycles and pontoons), Point Glass/Harris Kempner Sailing Foundation and Texas Adaptive Aquatics (water skiing) and Moody Gardens.
For more information please contact volunteers@moodygardens.com or call 409-683-4108.
Moody Gardens® is a public, non-profit, educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.
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