Wheelchair Athletics
What's in the Game?
Mainly focused on racing, wheelchair athletics in Alberta includes both track and road events. Using specially designed chairs wheelchair racers can achieve speeds of well over 30km/h. Because of the vigorous effort required for the sport it builds excellent muscular endurance and stamina. This is especially apparent when athletes choose to compete in multiple events and over longer distances. Athletes take part in sprint distances of 100 m, 200 m and 400 m, middle distances of 800 m and 1500 m, long distances of 5000 m and 10,000 m and relay races of 4 x 100 m and 4 x 400 m. There are also road events which include the half and full marathon.
The wheelchair athletics program offered for WSA members in Alberta also includes handcycling. Through integration with the University of Calgary's adaptive cycling program WSA members have access to top level coaching and better opportunities to pursue individual fitness and competitive goals.
Wheelchair racing has been a part of the Paralympics since 1960 and to ensure fair competition in international events, a classification system is used. This system divides athletes into categories based upon the type and level of disability. Spinal cord or amputee athletes and cerebral palsy athletes have different guidelines specified under IPC Athletics rules. These categories will also take into account restrictions in movement of certain limbs or muscle groups.
Hand Cycle Training
Handcycle Training is in full swing in Calgary. Mondays: 6:30-8:30PM meet at Steve Ellefson's place (3556 2 Ave. SW Calgary). Wednesdays: 7- 9 PM North Glenmore Park (meet at the rowing club).
Contact Steve Ellefson for more information: sje@telus.net
Contact:
Steve Ellefson - WSA Athletics
sje@telus.net
WSA Email: wsa1@telus.net
Ph: 780-427-8699
Toll Free: 888-453-6770
Fax: 780-427-8723
Office / Mailing Address:
11759 Groat Road
Edmonton, AB, T5M 3K6
NEW Promotional Poster - View it Here
Athletics / Road Racing - Results
complete list of results 2011 click here
complete List of results 2012 click here
Programs
- Twice weekly outdoor wheelchair racing / handcycle training in Calgary
- For more info, please contact Steve at sje@telus.net