Veterans with Disabilities to TEE Off in Iowa

Strengthening Self-Esteem Through Adaptive Golf

WASHINGTON – Nearly 200 military Veterans are registered to tee-off in a unique golf tournament in Riverside, Iowa, September 6 – 9, 2010, proving that having a visual impairment or other disability does not mean they cannot lead a full and rewarding life.

“These Veterans, many of whom were injured during their military service, will show that being involved in athletic activity can continue regardless of disability,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.  “I applaud all of the Veterans who will be traveling from across the country to participate in this event, as they strive to achieve their goals and continue to lead an active lifestyle.”

The National Veterans TEE (Training, Exposure, and Experience) Tournament provides visually impaired Veterans and those with other disabilities the opportunity to develop new skills and strengthen their confidence through adaptive golf as well as bowling and other recreational sports activities.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) endorsed this important event in 2008 and it became one of VA’s six national rehabilitation programs for Veterans.  Initially a local program, the first Tournament was held in 1994 in Nauvoo, Ill, and was attended by 36 legally blind Veterans from six Midwestern states.  In 1995, the event was moved to the Iowa City area. Now in its 17th year, the Tournament has expanded to include not only Veterans who are legally blind, but also amputees, those who use wheelchairs and Veterans with other disabilities.

This year’s event will take place at various golf courses in and around Riverside, Iowa, including the Lake MacBride, Quail Creek, West Liberty, Elks Country Club and Blue Top Ridge golf courses.  The bowling events will take place at Colonial Lanes in Iowa City.

Participation is open to U.S. military Veterans who are visually impaired or have other disabilities including amputations, traumatic brain injuries, certain neurological conditions and spinal cord injuries.  The participants receive care at VA medical facilities across the nation, and many utilize VA’s comprehensive visual impairment services. Nearly 300 volunteers from the local VA Medical Center in Iowa City and surrounding area will assist at this event.

VA is an unmatched health care leader in rehabilitation, with an impassioned commitment to serve all our Nation’s heroes, men and women, past and present. The Tournament is hosted by the Iowa City VA Medical Center, with sponsorship support provided by Help Hospitalized Veterans and other organizations.

For more information about the National Veterans TEE Tournament or to volunteer during the week, visit the Web site at www.tee.va.gov.