DETROIT – Hundreds of athletes from across the country have descended on Detroit this week for the National Veterans Wheelchair Games — a multi-day showcase of competition, courage and community.
From fast-paced races to packed cheering sections, the energy is loud, proud and deeply personal.
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“When I come here I feel complete really because I’m not alone,” said Beth Ilanan, an athlete competing at the games.
At the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, hundreds of athletes arrive with unique stories — but one thing they all share: their wheels.
Athletes compete in a wide variety of events, both individual and team-based. For many, the games are about more than medals.
“It’s all about camaraderie, bringing people together,” said Freddie Smith, another competing athlete.
The games take place every year and rotate from state to state — but organizers say this year’s Motor City stop holds a special significance.
“We love the Motor City, we came here because it’s a city of resilience,” said Jennifer Purser, co-director of the National Veterans Wheelchair Games.
That resilience is exactly what the athletes here embody.
None of it happens without partners, families and friends cheering on the competitors throughout the week. Jamie Minor, Target’s senior director of stakeholder engagement, spoke to the sense of community the games create.
“They come together they see each other sometimes just that one time a year and they have this like community within a community and you can just feel the love and support throughout this whole environment,” Minor said.
For athlete Rickey Riley, the message is simple — and meant for everyone.
“Never give up,” Riley said.
The games continue through Tuesday in Detroit.