Genesis Event Gives Thrill Of Water-Skiing | Events

DAVENPORT, Iowa--People with disabilities in the Quad Cities don’t have to sit along the shore and watch as others enjoy the fun and excitement of water-skiing.

Genesis Regional Rehabilitation, the Backwater Gamblers skiing club and St. Ambrose University health sciences students will make it possible for people with disabilities to enjoy water-skiing at Access To Waves for the eighth straight year.

This year's Access to Waves Ski Clinic will be held on Saturday, Aug. 18.  The adaptive water-skiing clinic promotes independence and allows people with physical disabilities to experience the thrill and excitement of water sports.

Genesis therapeutic recreation therapists, physical therapists and occupational therapists volunteer their time that day.  Students from St. Ambrose University also volunteer.  The Backwater Gamblers supply boats, personal watercraft, the site and volunteers.  The event is at the club’s docks in Rock Island.

Using a large ski fitted with an appropriately sized frame or “cage’’ with a seat, people with disabilities, including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, acquired brain injury or polio, or those who are legally blind or

have had amputations, can try water skiing.  Volunteers follow on three-person, personal watercraft, so that help arrives immediately if there is a spill.

Skiers must have the cognitive ability to follow directions and be able to pass a water safety test.

For more information, call (563) 421-2915 or (563) 421-1443.  Spectators are encouraged to attend the event, which will be held at 44th Street and Rock River Road in Rock Island.

Submitted Press Release