Sponsored by Anthem Life Insurance Company, The United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA) is pleased to host the second annual Colorado Winter Ski Festival in Breckenridge, CO, from Friday, March 11 through Monday, March 14. Nineteen blind or visually impaired athletes of all ages and abilities will have the opportunity to learn to ski, race and shoot infrared biathlon rifles coupled with acoustic signals.
"With generous support from Anthem Life, USABA is pleased to partner with the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center to provide a meaningful opportunity for 19 individuals who are blind or visually impaired, including our military service members and veterans with eye injuries," said Mark Lucas, USABA's executive director.
Highlighting this year's event is Erik Weihenmayer, a motivational speaker, climber and author of "The Adversity Advantage." Erik will speak to the USABA athletes, brokers and guests of Anthem Life about harnessing the power of adversity, the importance of a strong "rope team" and the daily struggle to pursue your dreams."
"Clearly, Erik's incredible accomplishments demonstrate that one does not need eyesight to have extraordinary vision," said Pat Murphy, president and general manager of Anthem Life. "If a person is born with a disability or becomes disabled, including visual impairment, many things in their life change. However, this should not stop a person from enjoying a full, healthy and active lifestyle that includes sports and physical activities. We're proud to once again sponsor this event. It's a unique educational event for brokers and it's inspiring to be around these athletes."
Trained guides and instructors are provided by the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC), a Colorado non-profit organization committed to expanding the potential of people with disabilities and special needs through meaningful, educational and inspiring outdoor experiences.
"This event has so many positive outcomes," said Lucas. "People with visual impairments learn new skills so they can maintain an active lifestyle, and attendees can interact with Erik, who is the perfect role model for people in general."
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