AAS' Elite Snowboard Training Program

Adaptive Action Sports is extremely proud and honored to serve the adaptive community with another winter season of world-class competitive snowboard programming.

AAS has played an active role in helping to establish snowboarding as a Paralympic sport. We did this, in part, by focusing the world’s attention on the sport by organizing the Adaptive Snowboarder X race that has been included for the past two years in the ESPN Winter X Games. Public attention to adaptive snowboarding has also been drawn by AAS-sponsored snowboard training camps and races which have been held in connection with various USASA competitions since 2005.

AAS has produced the most accomplished US adaptive snowboarders in the world including: WSF World Champion Evan Strong; the top ranked US female snowboarder Amy Purdy; X Games competitor Brandon Robins; and USASA National Champion Calob Leindecker. This season AAS will be offering a new “Adaptive-Snowboard” training program to continue its unparalleled track record.

Our Pipeline and Tier Concepts: For the past several years, AAS has been anticipating the eventual recognition of adaptive snowboarding as a Paralympic sport. In response, we have developed our snow programs to continually: (1) welcome new participants and (2) provide training that allows individuals to improve their skill sets in accordance with their specific abilities and interests. As a result, AAS athletes include those at the introductory through elite levels.

Our Introductory/Intermediate Pipeline Training Camps: In 2012-2013, as we have in past seasons, we will offer several Pipeline camps. In addition to meeting the immediate snowboarding goals of individual participants at all levels of expertise, these trainings will create an environment for advanced participants to decide if they want to take it to the top by training and perhaps competing for a spot on the US Adaptive Snowboarding Team.

Our Elite Para-Snowboard Training program, initiated in 2011-12, is for individuals who have potential and commitment to compete for a spot on the 2014 US Para-Snowboard Team. The program in 2012-13 will deliver ongoing instruction and coaching – according to individual training plans (ITPs) – to four military/veteran participants and approximately seven non-military participants. The ITPs will include: (a) an on-snow training and coaching program at Copper Mountain Ski Resort with full-time access to a dedicated boarder cross course; (b) a top quality inclusive and integrated life style and cross training regimen; and (c) where appropriate, an at-home supplemental practice program to be monitored by AAS program staff. The ITPs will be based on principles and techniques from an adaptive boarder cross manual, the development of which is currently being spearheaded by AAS.

Training at the elite level will include instruction by internationally-recognized Olympic-level snowboarder cross coaches who will be selected for their ability to work with adaptive athletes. AAS Instructors and Coaches, under direction of the lead AAS coach, will reinforce training provided by the Olympic-level coaches.

If you are interested in participating in these groundbreaking snowboard programs, make sure to check www.adacs.org early this fall for dates and sign up information. You can also email us for more details at info@adacs.org.

MIghty Mud Dash!!

AAS Proudly Welcomes the Mighty Mud Dash as it's Newest Partner and Supporter! 

Mighty Mud Dash is the Ultimate 5K Adventure Mud Run that is currently spreading nation wide.   Mighty Mud Dash’s 5k mud run gives you the opportunity to test your grit, determination, and pure might against the most innovative obstacle course there is.

Oscar Loreto - AAS Skater - Single Below Knee Amputee

 When running our 5k adventure mud run challenge you can expect to tackle at least 20 obstacles filled with colossal mud pits, death defying cargo nets, large walls and our nationally recognized Mighty Valley.

This October 20th a handful of Adaptive Action Sports athletes will be attending the Mighty Mud Dash in Houston Texas to test their "Might" against the muddiest course in country including AAS Special Projects Manager/Skater Oscar Loreto.

The AAS group will also demonstrate their awesome skateboard skills on site. This is the perfect opportunity to come join our amazing athletes, contribute to our cause and challenge yourself to the ultimate mud obstacle course! 





To get involved in our Mud Run all you have to do is show your Might by signing up at www.MightyMudDash.com

AAS needs your help on Oct. 20th! If you are interested in volunteering at the AAS booth please contact AAS Special Projects Manager Oscar Loreto at Oscar@adacs.org.

Winning with Mud!

Seriously this looks like unreal fun! Unleash the inner 12 year old!

"WE GOT MIGHT YES WE DO......!"

RISE ABOVE: FEATURING BUDDY ELIAS

We are so grateful for the support that  900 films has given us through there documentary series "Rise Above" which is featured on Tony Hawks YouTube channel The "Ride" Channel. So far they have featured Adaptive Action Sports Founder Amy Purdy, Adaptive Action Sports Athlete and Special Projects Manager Oscar Loreto and now Adaptive Action Sports advocate Buddy Elias. Make sure to check this one out, a perfect video to stress  why to never give up on your dreams and to advocate against smoking! Way to go Buddy, you are a true inspiration to everyone who know you and your story! Check It Out!! 

PART TWO OF "RISE ABOVE" FEATURING OSCAR LORETO JR.

Don't miss this! Make sure to watch Oscar Loreto, AAS Special Projects Manager/Skater, in this awesome two part series presented by the Ride Channel on Youtube.



If you didn't get to check out part one scroll below to find it. Congratulations and thank you Oscar. Thanks to Devin Loreto, Robert Brink and all the folks at Ride Channel for your ongoing support of AAS. Nothing but love.

Live Beyond Limits
www.adacs.org

AAS SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER OSCAR LORETO ADDRESSES THE IASC

Adaptive Action Sports Special Projects Manager Oscar Loreto has been asked to address the International Association of Skateboard Companies at their  annual Summit. Oscar who is also a long time athlete and advocate to AAS is digging deep to create new programs and more resources for for adaptive individuals interested in skateboarding.

Coming off 6 years of fantastic programing that included events with X Games, Dew Tour, Challenged Athletes Foundation, The Extremity Games as well as an up and coming relationship with The Street League - just to name a few - AAS and Oscar are poised and dedicated to growing the sport of "adaptive skateboarding."

Recently Oscar was featured in two incredible videos that are both worth a look. The first is through SBC.Skateboard.Com and the second is the premiere episode of "Rise Above" on You Tubes' new RIDE Channel. Check them both out!

Oscar will be speaking on Friday if you'll be present at the summit or stop by the AAS booth to donate. You can also hit him up at Oscar@adacs.org.

IASC brings together skateboarding industry leaders for the 5th Annual IASC Skateboarding Summit, May 10th and 11th, 2012 at the Doubletree Hotel in Anaheim, California.

Along with two days of speakers, panels, roundtables and networking opportunities—all aimed at giving you the information and tools you need to improve your business, we are excited to announce two special events that will make your time at the Summit an event to remember.

Live Beyond Limits
www.adacs.org

HISTORIC DAY FOR ADAPTIVE SNOWBOARDING!

May 2, 2012 – Today, supporters of the sport of Adaptive Snowboarding were rewarded when the International Paralympic Committee announced that two Para-Snowboard medal events will be included in the Alpine Skiing program at the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games. The two events will take place March 7-16, 2014.  Qualification criteria will be published on May 28, 2012.

 

Evan Strong/New Zealand WC

Acceptance of snowboarding as a Paralympic sport is the culmination of international, national and local efforts over the last six years.   AAS, which took an active role in these efforts, helped focus the world’s attention on the sport with ongoing support from the ESPN X Games which has, for the past two years, included the Adaptive Snowboarder X race.   

Nick Baumgartner 2011 X Games Gold Medalist. Matt Morning/ESPN Images

Earlie

they too can have an opportunity at Olympic Gold! So pumped for you all!"

Public attention to adaptive snowboarding also resulted from a series of AAS adaptive events including the ASX training camps and races made possible through AAS partnerships with the United States of America Snowboard Association, Toyota, Loctite, Burton, Udos Oil, Freedom Innovations, Smith Optics, Element, Disabled Sports USA and others. The ASX race series, including the race at X Games, boasted the first-ever cash purses for participating adaptive athletes.  

 

Travis K/Keith D/Chris B - All Veteran Race at USASA Nationals 09'

In February 2012, France hosted a two-day World Championship featuring 40 Para-Snowboarders from 10 countries.  Gold in the men’s standing class was taken by Evan Strong, racing for the US, who finished ahead of New Zealand’s Carl Murphy and fellow American Mike Shea. The women’s gold was won by Bibian Mentel of the Netherlands, while silver and bronze went to USA’s Amy Purdy and Italy’s Sara Dorigatti, respectively.  Both Evan and Amy trained at AAS’ Crested Butte Adaptive Snowboard camp in 2011-12.  International points they have accumulated over the past several years puts them out in front in terms of selection for the 2014 US Paralympic Team.  

 

February’s event also included the sitting category for the first time, which is open to riders with physical impairment such as paraplegia and bilateral lower extremity amputation.  

 

In 2012-13, Adaptive Action Sports, Inc., will continue its winter adaptive boardercross training which includes beginner to expert programs with access to a full-time boardercross course, seasonal lodging and a full time staff of certified instructors and coaches.  For information concerning how to participate in this training, contact AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at Daniel@adacs.org. 

Also, please visit www.adacs.org or www.facebook.com/pages/Adaptive-Action-Sports to learn how you can help incredible adaptive athletes prepare to pursue their dreams of becoming Olympians. 

ASX Training Camp at Copper Mountain Colorado 09'

 

Additional information on the 2014 Paralympics is available through www.sochi2014.com.

For information on the International Paralympics Committee, visit www.paralympic.org.  Or, telephone Craig Spence, IPC Director of Media and Communication, at 49-228-2097-230.  You may also email Craig at craig.spence@paralympic.org.  

 

 

To contact the WSF Para-Snowboard division, visit www.worldsnowboardfederation.org.  You may also contact Marco Sampaoli, WSF Press and Media Operations at marco@worldsnowboardfederation.org. Danny Buntain, WSF Para-Snowboard Chairperson, may be reached at 39-340-3285569 or 44-787-9336623.  She may be emailed at danny.buntain@gmail.com.

AAS WON THE TOYOTA HALFTIME HANDOFF!

Adaptive Action Sports was given a great a great grant of $10,000 from Toyota after winning the Halftime Handoff Challenge!

We would like to thank Toyota for the generous grant and everyone who supports our organization and voted, it's because of your  active support that we were awarded the grant!

The grant went directly into our 2012 Winter Programming to help support our our adaptive snowboarding and Vets in Action programs.

For more information on AAS and our programs please go to www.adacs.org

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE BY FUSE MARKETING: FUSE ANNOUNCES 2012 SERVICE GRANT RECIPIENT: ADAPTIVE ACTION SPORTS TO RECEIVE $25,000 IN AGENCY SERVICES

FUSE TO PROVIDE MARKETING SERVICES TO NON-PROFIT COMMITTED TO AIDING YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS LIVING WITH PERMANENT PHYSICAL DISABILITIES THROUGH ACTION SPORTS 

BURLINGTON, VT, Nov. 18, 2011 - Fuse is pleased to announce Adaptive Action Sports (AAS), Inc., as the non-profit recipient of its 2012 Service Grant Program, which includes $25,000 in agency services.

“This grant project is a new addition to Fuse’s community engagement program that fosters charitable giving, advocacy, volunteerism and leadership,” said Brett Smith, Partner at Fuse. “It was both impressive and humbling to review the 25 applications we received this year.  A large group of our staff has been involved in the selection process and we can’t be more excited to have chosen Adaptive Action Sports to work with in the coming year.”

AAS was co-founded by competitive snowboarders Amy Purdy and Daniel Gale in 2005.  Its mission is to create and promote action sports camps, events and programs for youth, young adults, military personnel and veterans living with permanent physical disabilities.

“Amy’s personal story, passion and work are truly impressive,” said Smith.  “She not only changes the lives of hundreds of young people with whom AAS directly works, but she also inspires the broader community – showing us that amazing things can be accomplished even under challenging circumstances.”

At age 19, Purdy – an avid snowboarder – lost her legs to bacterial meningitis.  As she struggled to get back to her sport, she met repeated disappointment and frustration.  At that time, snowboarding and other action sports were not considered suitable sports for individuals with disabilities. Eventually, with Gale’s encouragement, Purdy regained her snowboarding ability and today is the world’s top-ranked adaptive female snowboarder. With Purdy as inspiration, AAS shares her success story to help others find their own abilities through action sports. AAS continues to foster an attitudinal change in both the adaptive and able-bodied communities, where they raise the level of expectation and respect for the abilities and potential of adaptive individuals.

Purdy and Gale’s passion and commitment to AAS is evident. Fuse’s experience with action sports and youth marketing will assist AAS to broaden awareness and further its mission. 

“We are hoping that our work with Fuse will help us popularize action sports for the permanently disabled,” said Amy Purdy. “We want both the disabled and able-bodied communities to recognize that action sports are not out-of-bounds for individuals with disabilities. We are confident that Fuse’s services will help us broaden our market reach.  We look forward to telling the world about our organization.”

About Adaptive Action Sports (AAS)

Adaptive Action Sports (AAS) creates skate- and snowboarding opportunities, events and programs for veterans, youth, and young adults living with permanent physical disabilities. AAS believes that these sports encourage individuality and creativity while building independence and self-confidence within the disabled community.   AAS has provided nearly 50 action sports events to more than 200 adaptive teens, young adults, and injured military personnel and veterans. The public face of AAS is represented by a group of successful adaptive athletes. They include Evan Strong and Amy Purdy, the world’s top‐ranked male and female adaptive snowboarders and Oscar Loreto and Evan Strong, top-performing adaptive skateboarders. AAS additionally draws on X Games, World Cup events and Olympic athletes. To learn more about AAS visit our website at www.adacs.org. To learn more about our Co-Founder Amy Purdy visit: www.amypurdy.com.

About Fuse
 

Fuse is a youth culture marketing agency founded in 1995. The agency connects brands with teens and young adults through sports, music, fashion, gaming and other relevant cultural interests. Fuse services include brand strategy, public relations, event marketing, design, social media and digital services. The Fuse staff, led by Partners Bill Carter, Issa Sawabini and Brett Smith, is comprised of marketing professionals and cultural experts who have worked for some of the most prominent brands and agencies in the country. Fuse was named one of Outside magazine’s “Best Places to Work” in the US, in 2011.  As part of the agency’s community engagement program Fuse launched its annual Service Grant Program in 2011 which includes a donation of $25,000 in marketing services to a selected charity.  The program aims to give back to young people by supporting a worthy cause that involves action sports, music, fashion, gaming, or other teen and young adult cultural interests. For more information, visit: www.fusemarketing.com, http://www.facebook.com/FuseLLC or http://twitter.com/fuse_marketing.

AAS Presents A.S.X. "Adaptive Snowboard X" Championship Series!

This December, 2011, Adaptive Action Sports initiates A.S.X (Adaptive Snowboarder X-Cross), a championship stand-alone signature series of open competitions for permanently disabled snowboarders. The 4-event series provides adaptive riders, whose numbers have escalated in the past few years, their first opportunity to compete for cash and prize purses. 

Event spectators will enjoy, on a larger and more frequent scale, the same action, skill and inspirational courage that adaptive riders have recently displayed on AAS-hosted USASA (Undited States of America Snowboard Association) and X Games bordercross courses.   

AAS will adopt a classification and standards system for A.S.X.  In order to promote fair competition, the system will be designed to delineate the effect and impact of various disabilities and their level of impairment on, for instance, the athlete’s balance and mobility.

In 2011-2012, the A.S.X. competitions will be held separate from, but coinciding with the last day of, four AAS Pipeline learn-to-ride-and-race clinics. (See schedule.) To provide race experience for clinic participants, amateur-level competitions will be held on the last morning of each clinic. The championship competitions, registration for which will be limited to intermediate and advanced riders, will immediately follow. 

After an incredibly successful Summer X Games 17 Skateboard Competition, The Shoe City Invitational, with a cash and prize purse of over $3000.00, AAS will strive to create a similar rewards package at each stop of the A.S.X. Championship Series with a finals to outweigh them all!

The A.S.X. Championship Competition Series is going to kick A.A.S.!!! 

·         A.S.X. will elevate the status of adaptive snowboarding to a professional level!

·         A.S.X. will provide exciting, energetic and inspirational action sports events to an ever-growing spectator audience!

·         A.S.X. will provide the increasing numbers of skilled adaptive snowboarders an opportunity to compete against their peers for cash and prizes!

·         A.S.X. will provide industry sponsors highly-visible opportunities to link their brand to admirable athletes and inspirational athletic events with high international appeal. Interested in putting your brand name on the A.S.X. Series? Join the likes of Google, Vans and Volcom as we make history! Contact AAS Development Director Amy Purdy with sponsorship inquiries at amy@adacs.org.  

Registration opens on Sept. 30th for A.S.X. Series Races 1 and 2. Plan on attending A.S.X. series stop 2 or 3 if you want to compete in the finals for the big bucks and the title!

Finals will be held at the USASA Nationals in Copper Mountain Colorado. A USASA membership is required to compete. USASA events are open to all adaptive riders competing in the A.S.X. series or not. For additional information on USASA visit http://www.usasa.org/. A.S.X. cash and prize packages are only given to those registered with Adaptive Action Sports. Cash and prize package amounts are yet to be determined. Cash and prize packages will be distributed throughout the entire competing field.

Dates are subject to change. X Games event is subject to cancellation and will be an invite only event.

For additional information, contact AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at Daniel@adacs.org or visit the AAS website at http://www.adacs.org/.

NOTICE- THE FEB DATE AT SIERRA AT TAHOE HAS BEEN CHANGED TO FEB 9-12th with the ASX RACE BEING HELD ON THE 12th

Shoe City Invitational at ESPN X Games 17 presented by AAS

July 31, 2011, was a huge day at the ESPN Summer X Games for skateboarders with physical disabilities. The first annual Shoe City Invitational and AAS Adaptive Skate Clinic,” deputed for permanently disabled youth and veterans.

In the morning starting at 9 am, Adaptive Action Sports – with support from Shoe City -- hosted a learn-to-ride skateboard clinic.  Among the individuals who showed up for the clinic was Jami Goldman, a Paralympic runner and double below knee amputee, and Cody Reid, a 3 year old single above knee amputee with a heart of gold. Cody reminded us all of why we do what we do! Thanks also to Danielle McLaughlin and George Garcia Jr. for attending the clinic.

Levi Brown, Robert Brink and Chad Tim-Tim; guest judges

In the afternoon, five of the best “Adaptive” Skateboarders in the world competed for a prize purse of over $3,000.00. Element team riders Levi Brown and Chad Tim Tim were on hand with renowned skateboard journalist, Robert Brink, to judge the afternoon event.  

The competition was held in a best of 3 run format with a jam session at the end. A bonus $100 was thrown on top of the pot for best trick during the jam. Needless to say Levi, Chad and Robert had their work cut out for them while judging the likes of Oscar Loreto (single-below the knee amputee), Evan Strong (single-below the knee amputee) Greg Shaw (Greg’s adaptation is something called sacral agenesis, at birth, a cell “mis-divides” and causes a defect in leg development. Greg is also missing two vertebrae in his spine), Buddy Elias (a single-above the knee amputee recently from a single-below the knee amputee) and Justin Beauchesne (a quad-amputee).

The competition was unbelievably exciting and undeniably awe inspiring. Each skater pushed themselves physically and mentally searched for their most innovative tricks to manufacture on course. From Greg Shaw’s powerful 360’s to Justin Beauchesne’s pressure-flip variations there wasn’t a definitive moment to take your eyes off course.

Shoe City Invitational Adaptive Skate Contest at X Games 17 from Adaptive Action Sports on Vimeo Produced and Edited by Oscar Loreto

Greg Shaw had a 1^st place winning experience at this, his first, AAS event. “AAS gave me a chance to be out here and to be free. It’s a great organization where kids like me can get out and achieve their dreams” Greg said of Adaptive Action Sports.

Greg Shaw, 1st Place

Evan Strong put together a strong showing and walked home with a 2^nd place finish followed by Justin Beauchesne in 3^rd. Oscar Loreto finished in 4^th place just squeaking by the one and only Buddy Elias who placed 5^th. 

Every skater won who attended the event. The cash purse was divided throughout the total field. “We believe that these amazing athletes deserve the same opportunities as able bodied pros; competition and financial support” says Daniel Gale, AAS Executive Director and Co-Founder. “We also believe that every athlete who attends our competitions deserves a portion of the purse” Gale added.

The AAS X 17 competition was the third event of the summer sponsored by Shoe City in 2011.  The preceding competitions were held on June 25 by the organization Life Rolls On at the Venice Skate Park in Venice Beach, CA, and by Extremity Games on June 24-25 at Texas Ski Ranch, San Antonio, TX. 

“It’s a great thrill to help such a deserving community” said Leedy Ying, Shoe City President, adding “It was an awesome event and I am looking forward to future adaptive skateboarding events with Adaptive Action Sports.”

3 year old Cody Reid and Evan Strong

“We are excited to expand our adaptive skateboard opportunities at the X Games and to have Shoe City support our mission,” says AAS Co-Founder and Development Director Amy Purdy. “The addition of a “learn to skateboard clinic” and a competition for a cash purse will open new doors for adaptive skateboarders everywhere,” she added. Amy had no reservations crediting the X Games for their generosity and support, making the statement that “X Games has been an amazing five-year supporter of AAS adaptive programming and continues to provide a great venue, bringing together able bodied and adaptive athletes.”

To check out firsthand what these awesome athletes can do and you are in the Los Angeles area make sure to attend the “Get on Board” AAS Skate Clinic, Demo and Fundraiser on Saturday September 17^th at the Shoe City Center in Whittier California. Contact the Los Angeles AAS L.A. Skate Sector Program Coordinator Oscar Loreto for more details, Oscar@adacs.org. 

AAS would like to say a special thank you to all of our sponsors including; Shoe City, Freedom Innovations, Element, Vans, Dakine, Protec, VitaCoco and the ESPN X Games.

For more information on the Shoe City Invitational/AAS Adaptive Skate Clinic Experience, please contact AAS Co-Founder/Executive Director Daniel Gale at Daniel@adacs.org. For media or sponsorship inquiries please contact AAS Co-Founder/Development Director Amy Purdy at Amy@adacs.org. 

Adaptive Action Sports, Inc., is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to create and promote Action Sports camps, events and programs for youth, young adults and wounded veterans living with permanent physical disabilities. Since 2005, AAS has sponsored over two dozen action sports events and is widely credited with the development of adaptive Skateboarding, Moto X and Snowboarding.

About Shoe City; 

Shoe City is located in the heart of Los Angeles, featuring 32 retail stores located in the Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. We have been in business for over 30 years, giving the people of Los Angeles a nice, comfortable place to shop for shoes.
Shoe City carries the latest and hottest brands of shoes. With brands such as Vans, Nike, and Converse,  shoes for the whole family. Shoe City also carries Skechers Shape Ups and Reebok Easy Tones. You will find skate brands like DC, DVS, Lakai, Circa, Etnies in our stores, and athletic brands such as Reebok, Jordan, Adidas, KSwiss, Puma, and much more. We have all sizes from a baby size 1 to a men size 15. 

Need sandals? Shoe City carries sandals from Roxy, Oneill, Quiksilver, Rainbow, Reef, and fashion sandals from companies like Classified and Soda. You can also find all the accessories you want from Jansport backpacks, Nike socks, purses, hats, and skateboards. For more information, visit http://www.shoecity.com.

Shoe City Invitational from Daniel Gale on Vimeo. This additional footage courtesy of the ESPN X Games

Buddy Elias

Amy Purdy and Jami Goldman

5-O from Oscar Loreto

Justin Buchesne

Greg Shaw

Evan Strong

The Whole Posse! Thank you to all of ya!!

“Veterans in Action-Stay on Track” Rallycross Camp at DirtFish Rally School Concludes at X Games 17!

On July 12-13, three injured Veterans had the opportunity to skid and tear their way across coarse terrain as guests at a two-day training donated to Adaptive Action Sports, Inc., by the DirtFish Rally School (www.dirtfish.com) in Snoqualmie, WA.   

The training was a kick-off event in an AAS rallycross train-and-race series called “Stay on Track.”  The series, which will eventually be open to permanently disabled Veterans and non-Veterans alike, was inaugurated as  part of a new  Veteran-specific AAS program called “Veterans in Action.”

The AAS mission is to provide opportunities for permanently disabled individuals to participate in Action Sports, such as skateboarding, snowboarding and rally racing. “In 2010, we were able to expand our existing Action Sports programs to include a Veterans-in-Action focus,” explains Daniel Gale, Executive Director of the nonprofit AAS.  “Our first two Veterans Learn to Ride and Race snowboard camps, held in 2011, were very successful.  From these camps, we learned that ‘getting back in action’ is the preferred means by which many injured military personnel successfully cope with their disabilities.  This was the stimulus for our Stay on Track program.”

The rally camp was held at DirtFish Rally School, North America’s premier rally training facility. DirtFish’s 315-acre property offers a unique learning environment.  “None of the Vets attending this inaugural program knew quite what to expect,” says Gale, “but undeniably they were pleasantly surprised by the experience. With mud, gravel, and dirt surfaces peppered among abandoned warehouses and buildings, DirtFish offered the Veterans a dramatic setting in which to learn how to race a car.” 

Clinton Okada, a single below the knee amputee, was one of the Veterans who attended. “This was one of the most memorable experiences of my life,” Okada said of the two-day intensive training.  He was accompanied by his fellow “battle buddy” John Beaver.

Beaver and Okada were together when Okada lost his leg in Afghanistan. Their vehicle was exploded by a deep-buried IED that created a chaotic scene.  Although injured himself, Beaver earned a second Purple Heart by pulling Okada to safety with the help of another soldier. 

ADACS.ORG/ DIRTFISH RALLY SCHOOL from Bttocs on Vimeo.

“It was great to share this with Clinton,” said Beaver adding “I will think of this when I think about Okada instead of battle.” (Watch the official AAS DirtFish video on www.adacs.org to hear more about their story.)

Injured vet Brad Steensma, left, with Tanner Foust at X 17

Injured Vet Brad Steensma was also on hand for the AAS Dirtfish training. On the second day of camp, Okada, Beaver and Steensma participated in a friendly timed-race with Steensma coming out on top.  As a result, Brad was given the opportunity to attend X Games 17 on July 31^st to watch the RallyCross event live.  As part of his prize, Brad also had the opportunity to meet top drivers Dave Mirra, Robbie Maddison and Tanner Foust. To top off his experience the above PSA (Video), in which Brad appears, was aired live on site just minutes before the Rallycross Finals.

“I can’t thank AAS enough for this whole experience: from the DirtFish Rally School training all the way to X Games.  I’d do it again in a second” said Steensma.

A long-range “Stay on Track” goal is to provide sanctioned, recognized rally racing opportunities for adaptive drivers.  “Our down-the-road vision,” Gale said, “is to gain adaptive divisions within regional rally racing events and, of course, potentially an adaptive X Games rally contest.”

 “We’re thrilled to support Adaptive Action Sports in its mission,” said DirtFish President, Ross Bentley.  “We’re really looking forward to working with the adaptive drivers that AAS represents.  We can give them a great foundation of skills on their quest to be professional rally drivers.”

DirtFish offers a range of training programs for all levels of drivers.  In addition to many passionate thrill seekers, DirtFish has also worked with action sports stars like Dave Mirra and Shaun White.  

AAS would like to say thank you to all of the sponsors that supported this event including DirtFish, Freedom Innovations, Udo's Oil "Oil the Machine", Coal Headwear, Contour Cameras and Bradley Scott Films.

For additional information, contact AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at 619-770-0240 or Bruce Cleland of DirtFish Rally School at425-577-2616. 

Brad and The Stig!

Injured Vet Brad Steensma on left with Robbie Maddison

Brad and Dave Mirra

Drastic Changes at Summer X Games

ESPN is making big changes at Summer XGames…

Although no press release has been published by ESPN, it is official:  

Moto Super X has been dropped from the X Games program for Summer 2011. This, unfortunately, means that the X Game’s “Adaptive” Moto Super X division has also been tabled. The decision is due to budget constraints within the X Games franchise.  For the same reason, the Adaptive Skateboard Jam has also been cut.  

Daniel Gale, AAS Director and official Sport Organizer for all Summer XGames “Adaptive” programming, notes that, at this time, he still hopes that the 2^nd annual Adaptive Snowboarder X will return to the Winter X Games at Aspen, Colorado, in 2012.  

He adds that “Adaptive Action Sports will continue to work with ESPN and the X Games to develop new and exciting programs within the current X Games program format.  In the meantime, we will be at the AAS Booth in the Team ESPN tent in the Summer X Games Village.  Please plan to visit!”

AAS continues to officially support the Extremity Games’ adaptive motocross race.  (For information on the Extremity Games, visit www.extremitygames.com)  

To keep Adaptive Moto X momentum going, AAS proposes forming a coalition of individuals and organizations interested in developing an adaptive motocross series. “We all have contributed,” says Gale, “in creating a new sport and that sport deserves a permanent home.”   

If you are interested in being a part of the “Adaptive Motocross Coalition” or have additional questions regarding the X Games events, please contact Daniel Gale via email at daniel@adacs.org.

Amy Purdy on the Dr. Drew Show with Niki Sixx

AAS Co-Founder Amy Purdy on the Dr. Drew Show!

Check out Amy on the Dr. Drew Show tonight with Nikki Sixx. Niki is being interviewed about his recent book release in which Amy is a subject. She'll be on at 6pm, 9pm and midnight tonight, 4/28/2011. Click here for more info on HLN.

Visit www.adacs.org for more information on Adaptive Action Sports.

AAS "Veterans in Action" Learn to Ride and Race Camp

Competitive adaptive snowboarding has progressed in leaps and bounds over the past decade. With the Paralympics as an end goal, Adaptive Action Sports continues to forge the way with unique programming.

On February 24-26, 2011, with a grant from Disabled Sports USA and support from the Paralympics, AAS hosted the first annual “Veterans in Action” (AAS’ New Veteran Specific Programming) Learn to Ride and Race Pipeline Camp at Sierra at Tahoe “Snowboard” Resort. The camp, designed as one of AAS’ new Pipeline series, focused on teaching snowboard fundamentals and race techniques to wounded veterans.  “A participant may enter at any skill level and work to increase his/her on-snow skill set. Each rider’s personal goals will vary but the ultimate goal perhaps, is landing a spot the US Adaptive Snowboard Team, once Para-Snowboarding is recognized as a Paralympic event” says Daniel Gale Executive Director and Co-Founder of AAS.

Six veterans and two civilians participated in AAS’ inaugural three day camp.  Training culminated with the option of participating in a USASA Regional Adaptive Boarder X race, which coincided with the camp’s last day.  Veterans in Action camper Tanner Kuth took third in the race. “I’m not the fastest yet, but I am ready to get after it,” single below knee amputee Tanner stated after receiving his bronze medal.

“I have no fear coming down the mountain” were Chris Bain’s words during Thursday’s practice. On Saturday, after spending snow time with single below knee amputee and AAS Advocate/Mentor Evan Strong, Chris -- who was injured by an RPG (rocket propelled grenade) -- proved himself by bringing home a Gold medal from the USASA Men’s Adaptive Division.  “He’s really fast and has a great attitude towards life,” Evan said of Chris.   

James Tidwell, who lives with limited mobility from an IED (improvised explosive device), was on hand to gather a silver medal crossing the finish line just behind Bain.  

Gary Nolte an expert kayaker from Kentucky attended the program to try snowboarding for the first time. Not one to give up easily after incurring serious back injuries and loosing sight in one eye from small arms fire Gary pushed himself to the limit while in Tahoe. We look forward to seeing Gary again at future AAS programs.

Bethany Wolf, who was snowboarding with a spinal cord L2 through S1 fusion, looked like a natural. After spending some time with AAS Coach and Program Coordinator Chris “Kep” Koeppe, Beth was linking turns all the way down the slope.

Jasmine Perry, a single below knee amputee, attended the AAS Pipeline camp to build on the skills she learned at this year’s DSUSA Breckinridge Ski Spectacular.  There, she was coached by double below knee amputee, Amy Purdy.  Amy, AAS’ Co-Founder and Development Director, is currently ranked as the top Adaptive Female Snowboarder in the world.  Amy worked with Jasmine on intermediate skills during the Sierra Pipeline camp.

Other instruction and coaching was provided during the camp by Sierra at Tahoe Instructor/Coach Rob Ross and Daniel Gale. 

The South Lake Tahoe community chipped in to help make this first Veterans in Action camp a success with local businesses providing great support.  “Tahoe’s Boutique Resort,” The Inn by the Lake, provided complimentary accommodations for all of the Veterans and AAS camp staff. Dan Mchale, owner of the Inn, said:  “It was an honor to give back to those that gave so much for us.”  Dan also arranged a no-cost evening for the participants and staff at Tahoe Bowl and Blue Dog Pizza.  Check out www.innbythelake.com for your next Tahoe trip.

President Sean Raftree of Ski Butlers Lake Tahoe generously donated snowboards and helmets for each camper to use during the program. For information on ski and snowboard rentals in Lake Tahoe, visit www.skibutlers.com/heavenly-tahoe-ski-rentals . 

Montbleu Casino and Resort invited the group to have a meal at the buffet and watch a live mixed martial arts fight in the showroom.   JP and Barbra Tenney from Apres Wine Co. hosted the vets for an evening of appetizers and a sip of wine.  Harrah’s Casino saved a VIP booth at their exclusive night club,Vex, for the AAS group to celebrate the last camp evening.

Additional sponsors, also deserving thanks, include Sierra at Tahoe Snowboard Resort, Coal Headwear, Udo’s Oil, Vans, Protec Helmets and the United States of America Snowboard Association.

For more information about upcoming AAS Veterans in Action programs or to learn how to help our amazing warriors return to “action,” visit www.adacs.org, email info@adacs.org or call 619-770-0240.

Click below for news articles on the Sierra at Tahoe Camp.

http://www.laketahoenews.net/2011/02/disabled-veterans-prove-their-abilities-on-sierras-slopes/

http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20110226/NEWS/110229908&parentprofile=search

 Right to left; Chris Bain, James Tidwell and Tanner Kuth get poised to race!

Apre Ski Wine Co owner Barbra Tenney and Amy Purdy share a sip of wine after hours.

 Coach Kep working with Gary Nolte on some fundamentals of snow sliding..

 Amy Purdy, Tanner Kuth and Daniel Gale staying warm under the helmet with Oil The Machine beanies.

 The Abominable Kep Dog!

 Jasmine Perry, Gary Nolte and James Tidwell staging before a day of riding.

 

This was the real deal. The guy in the red got knocked out...

 The boys got to meet the number gals from the fight!

 The nerves are starting to build! I love racing!

 

Al Vano schooling the ranks before the gates start dropping!

 AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale isn't scared to race (center "black n yellow..")! Snowboarders for snowboarders that's what we say! 3rd Place that day....

 Evan Strong putting it on the line to reel em in (far right)..

Amy Purdy looking purdy coming down the mountain!

 Chris Bain defying Newtons law!

Staying low is crucial!

Tanner Kuth in his competitive depute! 3rd place on the day!

Left to Right; Gary Nolte wood worker extraordinaire, Rob Ross Sierra at Tahoe/AAS Boarder X Coach, Chris Bain the Man with the Silver Tongue and Chef Evan Strong plot to take over the world!

 Evan breakin a piece off!! Literally. Snapped pylon!

Beth Wolf looks shocked!

But have no fear Scott from Ultra Prosthetic is on site with his tool box!

 Scott, giving Evan a hand....er foot.........whatever!

 Chest of robot parts...

 Tanner getting a fresh set of tires.

 Tanner giving us some parting words to live by!