Games Are Good as Gold for Roberta Bell
On June 25–30, the 32nd National Veterans Wheelchair Games (NVWG) will take place in Richmond, Va., where the event began some three decades ago. Last year, veteran Roberta Bell was among those participating in the Games held in Pittsburgh, her hometown. It was her fifth NVWG.
Bell’s events were bowling (ramp, hand controls) and track (100-, 200-, and 400 meters). She took home gold medals in the 100- and 200-meter events and a bronze in bowling.
Bell served in the Army Reserves for three years and in the Air Force Reserves for ten. Her multiple sclerosis was diagnosed while she was in the Army Reserves. She receives care at the Pittsburgh VA medical facility.
How does Bell describe her training? “Rolling around and lifting weights!”
She also practiced with the ramps used on the bowling alleys.
Presented by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Paralyzed Veterans of America and attracting around 600 athletes each year, NVWG is the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world. Events showcase the athletic abilities and personal achievements of America’s veterans with disabilities and highlight the benefits of sports rehabilitative programs. The Games are designed for veterans who use wheelchairs due to spinal cord injuries, amputations, or neurological problems.
For more information, visit wheelchairgames.va.gov.
