TEMPLE, Texas — Two local athletes are preparing for their first Valor Games, a multi-sport competition held in San Antonio at the end of September. The athletes are getting ready through the Adaptive Sports Program at the Temple VA.
Veterans with physical disabilities compete in various games including air guns, archery, boccie ball, cycling, powerlifting, table tennis, and rowing.
The Adaptive Sports Program provides Veterans with specialized rehabilitation events to help those that participate become more independent while boosting their quality of life and well-being.
This is the first year Renee Campbell and Bennett Larson will compete in the games.
Campbell, who is 40% disabled with knees, back and neck disabilities, said the event is more than just a competition.
"I'm not really good at any of it, but I love doing all of it," Campbell said. "So, I just do it for the fun and for the fellowship and to be around people who understand your issues and problems."
Larson said without the adaptive sports program, he doesn't know where he'd be.
"There was really no outlet for me other than staying home and watching TV," Larson said. "It would've been not good."
Campbell and Larson will both compete in air guns and archery at the games next month.
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