13th ANNUAL TORONTO WHEELCHAIR RELAY CHALLENGE

Release Date:

Sep 19 2008

For Immediate Release, September 19, 2008

MEDIA ADVISORY

ASSIGNMENT, SPORTS, LIFESTYLE, WEEKEND AND PHOTO Editors

CANADIAN PARAPLEGIC ASSOCIATION (CPA) ONTARIO’S

13th ANNUAL TORONTO WHEELCHAIR RELAY CHALLENGE

WHAT:

The 13th Annual Toronto Wheelchair Relay Challenge is just around the corner. Join us to experience what it’s like to use a wheelchair even for a short while, and to gain a better understanding about accessibility and the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

More than 60 teams consisting of 8 people each will complete a .75 km lap, to win prizes and fulfill pledges for CPA Ontario. Teams include people with and without disabilities – their families, friends and supporters, as well as a record-number of corporate teams. Approximately 1,000 people will be in attendance.

WHO:

Bill Adair, Executive Director CPA Ontario

Shayne Smith, Ready, Willing and Able Ambassador for Paralympics Ontario

Louise Russo, client, member and volunteer for CPA Ontario

‘Bella on Wheels’, a paralyzed Border Collie/Retriever mix who uses adapted wheels to ‘be’ her back legs

WHY: CPA Ontario assists people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and other physical disabilities to achieve independence, self-reliance and full community participation. The Toronto Wheelchair Relay Challenge helps increase awareness of people with SCI and other physical disabilities. Funds raised through the event benefit CPA Ontario programs including Peer Support, Community Counselling, Information Services, Employment Services, Community Advocacy and Attendant Services. Toronto’s event is one of 14 across the province.

WHEN:

Sunday, September 21st

9:30 a.m. Opening Ceremonies

9:40 a.m. Seated Aerobic Warm-up

10:00 a.m. Photo Op

10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Shot Gun Start

12:00 noon Awards Ceremonies

WHERE: NE Parking Lot, Yorkdale Shopping Centre, 401 Hwy. and Dufferin St.