Today is the third to the last day of the year 2006?! It's seems like I was just recovering from last New Year's celebration.... I am definitely going to take it easy this New Year, I really wan't to start it off on a positive note.
Through the internet and down the rabbit hole I found out about "Around The World in 80 Ways," no it's not a typo of "Days," it's a docufilm from the U.K. here's a byte from their site.
"Around the World In Eighty Ways is an epic bid by three adventurers with disabilities challenged by their modern day Phileas Fogg to circumnavigate the globe using 80 different means of transport, led by Robin Dunseath, adventure leader. Their aim is to encourage everyone to live their lives to the fullest potential while also raising much needed funds for deserving charities along the route"
It (the trip) was a very modern takeoff of an equally good, classic book by Jules Verne, "Around The World in 80 days." Not only did these modern, disabled travellers go around in 80 days, they did it 80 different ways. One of the more interesting modes of transpo..... wheelchair sleds pulled by a Husky trough an English forest. Very Cool eh? I'm all for that one.
Their site will tell you everything you want to know about what's possible for the disabled traveller in 15 different countries, and the diaries are damn good reading. Around The World in80 Ways Homepage
I ego-googled the search phrase "wheelchair adventurer" and much to my pleasure found myself having multiple entries on the first page.... I also found some more people to interview and tell their stories here! Some of these adventures are from a few years ago and I feel like crap for not finding out about them sooner. Better later than never? EH? Here goes. >
> Glenn Shaw - Confined to a chair his whole life, this guy is the real deal with a number of wheelchair trips under his belt. New Zealand, Mount Everest, Antarctica, Colorado, and Canada. His accomplishments are phenomonal, reaching Everest Base Camp in a chair?! That's just super. He has a pretty trick Land Rover too and his site has great pix of his journeys and the tech he uses.
I am STILL waiting for Carol's interview to come back, but when it does I'll hack one together for this guy. I really apologize for not updating daily, I allowed the toll from doing this by myself to get the better of me for a bit. I'm over it, got my small business loan and a steady flow of wheelchair sports and tech are back on!
1 st of all.............Big Doings! Merry Christmas to you, your families, techs, doctors and everyone else. Spinal Cord Injured people were all the place this year! Murderball, Extreme Makeover Home Edition, and "Paralyzed and Pregnant," and that's just a few of the many times I saw an SCI in the mainstream media. The unfortunate passing of our community Champion has hit us hard, but moving on and getting better is the best way we can honor him.
I haven't done an update of results or upcoming events in FAR to long. So this one will be a goodie.
> Disabled Sailing - 2.4 mR Class Midwinter Regatta (Jan 19-21) Shake-a-Leg Miami, Miami, Fla.
Rolex Miami OCR (Jan 22 - 27 US SAILING Center Miami (Paralympic Classes)
Sonar Class Midwinter Regatta (Feb 11-13) Key Biscayne YC, Miami, Fla.
(Sonar)
>U.S. Paralympics - The U.S. Paralympic teams and athletes had an amazing year, Medal winners galore. Here is an example of their sites monster "Year in Review."
Jessica Galli’s two gold medals highlights a nine-medal performance by the U.S. in the track and field competition at the Visa Paralympic World Cup, while Erin Popovich wins three of the six U.S. medals won in the swimming events. (read more)
> Wheelchair Tennis - Robin Aamerlam and Esther Vergeer are named the ITF Players of the year, David Wagner is the quad (P.OT.Y). I guess it was convenient for Robin and Esther to receive their awards, the ceremonies were held in their home country of Netherlands, or Holland, I never know the difference. It's all clogs, windmills, weed.......... and great chair tennis players!
> I'm still waiting for the interview from Carol Hollfelder, spoke to Tyler Dieth and he might come down soon, and I hope for the best for everyone in the New Year!
All "-" quoted content taken from their respective owners. Links are provided where available.
A very good friend of mine got a card today from the doctors's office next to his. The card was from a painter of the AMFPA. They are "The Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists......," a collection of artists from all over the world that paint......... with their feet and mouths!
That is crucially deserving of it's place here! Not that you know any different, lemme show a couple examples of some fine painting., by mouth.
These paintings as links will go directly to the painters gallery page. Deal with it please, trust me it's worth a few more clicks!
The first of the mouth painters is Dennis Francesconi from Cali. The painting below will take you to his gallery page. Just a bit of info....... Mouth Painting!
I got a message on Myspace yesterday telling me that the O&P Extremity Games are on for the 2nd time. 2006's event was so good, I'm glad they are doing it again. The games are Extreme Sports Competions for amputees and people with limb difference.
I attended last years event as a credentialled journalist and had an amazing time. The events are BMX Racing, Vert Racing, Rock Wall Climbing, and Wakeboarding. The games drew really good turn-outs from the athletes and guests. Some of the competitors came from the U.K. and Australia, and the guests were treated to a fine show of the competitive spirit overcoming a physical disability.
If you would like to read last years article and see some pix here's a picture you can click on, it will take you to the article.
"The O&P Extremity Games allows participants to demonstrate skill, persistence and passion while competing for cash and other prizes - proving There's No Replacement for the Competitive Spirit.
Do you have what it takes?
Courage, Drive, Ambition, Guts
Put your athletic ability to the extreme test
and join us in Orlando."
Redi AutoSport bills themselves "America's only supplier of sports cars for disabled drivers." I got a chance to talk with Tony about them today, who they are and how they got started. They sell sports cars already fitted with their own propietary hand control system, "SoftTouch" the hand control system is the meat and potatoes of their operation, it's an absolutely amazing system for both automatic and manual transmissions.
Content taken with permission from RediAutoSport:
"At first glance you might think the RediAuto Sport hand controls would be difficult to use. Nothing could be further from the truth. While they are like nothing else sold in the country, they are very easy to use and extremely well made. The system consists of three major components. An (1) accelerator ring, a (2) hand brake, and a (3) clutch control. The system is engineered to work together. Learning to operate it usually takes about an hour of use."
"The accelerator ring is operated simply by pulling on it with your fingertips. This allows you to control your speed while keeping both hands on the wheel. When you need to remove a hand from the wheel to shift, brake, or light a cigarette, you still keep one hand on the wheel, controlling your speed and steering. This is a very safe way to control the car."
Starting at $1,600 to $2,000 for the auto and $5,000 to $10,000 for the manual system and installation takes less than one working day for the auto and 2-3 days for the manual set-up. If you have ever dreamed of driving stick again give them a call at 888-651-8378 or go directly to their cars for sale page @ RediautoSport.com
Mike is such a great guy, sailing around Australia for a charity that provides kids in poverty stricken areas with wheelchairs. He sent me an e-mail yesterday saying:
Hi Ralph
Sorry it’s been a while but I have been busy. I set off last April to travel back to my boat in Darwin. To hopefully set off for Timor, and to physically distribute some wheelchairs myself, However first a cyclone and then I got lucky and the cyclone changed course. Rioting broke out in Dili, East Timor, my destination, and marshal law was declared. So I went down to a pearl farm in north west Australia and did my first three months as a pearl technician.
Then finally in September 2006 I set sail for Timor-5 days later I sank my anchor into Dili mud. I had a great experience as a paraplegic, experiencing the third world but more so giving twenty kids a chair. I have attached a couple of pics of my adventure.
Right now I am back in Australia and hope to return to Timor in March 2006 with another container laid of wheelchairs.
Keep well,
Mike Rowney
Here is a (link) to an interview I did with with Mike right before the IFDS World Disabled Sailing Championshipo in Perth, AUS last year.
I sent an email to the Director of the U.S. Military exoskeleton technology project. The original email was to request an interview investigating the feasibility of exoskeleton technology, combined with myoelectric control systems such as the HAL-5 and the varied prosthetic technologies that use myoelectric control systems.
Here is the email in it's entirety that I received from DARPA. My interview request was declined but they gave me the information I was looking for. I hope you find it as interesting as I did. I'll have more information about these questions and more in the near future.
Thank you for your email. We will not be able to do an interview, but I do have some information that you might find useful.
We are not currently pursuing combining exoskeleton technology and electrical stimulation as an option for disabled persons. Our focus for the exoskeleton program is the development of an exoskeleton system for Soldiers that would allow them to carry more weight without fatigue, so
we are not looking at its applicability for the disabled. The bexoskeleton system now under development uses a control system that closely follows the natural movements of the operator. It is not using myoelectric control and will only work if the operator can himself make the walking or lifting motions desired.
In addition to the exoskeleton program, DARPA is also embarking on an ambitious program to develop a new upper extremity prosthesis.
This prosthesis will use high-fidelity neural signals for control rather than the current myoelectric strategy now employed for prosthetic devices. While our focus in this program is on a revolutionary advancement in prosthetics, we would expect that the research would also have implications for other medical applications, perhaps to include the use
of neural control to assist the disabled. Our program will deliver a prototype device for human clinical trials in 2009. You should contact our contractor Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory at that time to discuss whether they are planning any other applications for the technology.
I hope this information is helpful!
Jan Walker - Darpa
Michael Jeremiasz has been dethroned as the reigning king of wheelchair tennis. The Frenchman, after thirteen consecutive months as #1, had a miserable outing at this years U.S. Open, losing in the semi final match to Japan's, and then World's #4 Shingo Kunieda. Mr. Jeremiasz did, however, have a brilliant year, going 40 and 7 in singles, 31 and 1 in doubles, and winning 8 tournaments in either singles, doubles or both.
Shingo has had quite a bit of success against the Athen's bronze medalist, beating him in their previous final meeting, 6-2, 6-1 in the Japan Open, and while partnering with his countryman Satoshi Saida has won 4 doubles titles against him and his partners.
His overall record is excellent as well, reflected by his status as World's #1, 36 and 5 in singles, 30 and 5 doubles, 8 singles titles and 6 in doubles. Remarkable numbers for him, but understandable, he has been playing chair tennis 11 of his 22 years of age.
He is travelling in the treads of some very big wheels, before Jeremiasz sits the nearly omnipotent David Hall. Shingo's talent is very promising, but between those two ambassadors of the game he has a long way to roll. The first test of his month long reign will be the NEC Masters, held this month in Amsterdam. Coincidentally, last year's event was won by the then one month long #1 Michael Jeremiasz.
Correction! Michael lost!
Content and Pictures taken from Tiger Racing
"The Tiger Racing Mustang GT is loosely based on the 2003 Ford Mustang. It is, however, a purpose built road racing car with a number of significant design features that make it unlike any other Mustang in the world."
"It incorporates a unique paddle shift gear box clutch system developed especially for this car by Ford Motor Company’s Advanced Powertrain Division. It allows high speed shifting controlled by two simple, thumb switches located on the steering wheel. Brake and throttle controls developed by Tiger Racing for this car are also located on the steering wheel, as is the radio push-to-talk button."
I have been looking at all of the pages on their site, and the technology they put into the car, and it is unbelievable. For example:
The steering column is designed to be telescopic with mechanical linkage to the cars brake master cylinder. The driver can cause the vehicle to brake by merely pushing the steering wheel away from her body. The motion is a simple arm extension much like bench pressing. Only about 50 lbs. of force are required for full brake lockup.
The throttle is drive-by-wire implemented by means of a concentric ring mounted on linear bearings about two inches in front of the steering wheel rim. The ring is in turn connected to a throttle position transducer.
This car is absolutely amazing! Take a look at their site for all the details, pictures and info on their owner/driver Carol Hollfelder. I gave them a call and req'ed a interview, maybe soon I will have something for you all.
The Pentagon, and it's research facility, have decided on who will build it's new super soldier suit. This suit was designed by the Utah based Sarcos, whose site has absolutely no information on it at all.
The design apparently uses one internal combustion turbine engine and a tank containing a 24 hour fuel supply. The turbine engine will then drive high pressure hydraulic fluid to servo valves on each joint, amplifying the force used to move each limb when the wearer’s motion is sensed.I assume the suit uses the myo-electric sensors that are so promising as a technology to help the disabled population.
A few months ago, I covered a story about a battery powered, myoelectric sensor exoskeleon built in Japan named HAL-5. This suit very nearly summited the 13,741 foot Matterhorn while carrying a quyadriplegic, missing by only 500 yards.
You could say that "very nearly" is the same as not at all, but these suits will be so much better than any wheelchair could ever be, and when coupled with FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation,) Exoskeleton technology will blow the doors wide open for disabled people, and the militrary too.
It absolutely amazes me just how many events there are in the world for wheelchair athletes. I just found out about the 8 day, 267 mile hand cycle and wheelchair Sadler's Ultra Challenge race in Anchorage, Alaska. The event's organizers accurately bill it as the "Race of a Lifetime."
This years winners were
- Monica Bascio: Women's Handcycle
- Alejandro Albor: Men's Handcycle C
- Peer Bartels: Men's Handcycle B
- Paul Nunnari, Men's Wheelchair
Check out their site for more details including course descriptions and profiles, photos and more.
Stepnow.org or "Stand Together to End Paralysis."
"The purpose of the site is to explore and develop global plans to aid in the fight for a cure for paralysis. This is a site that aims to go beyond politics, beyond national boundaries and cultures – a site whose task in hand is to support all viable and promising research leading to clinical trials and ultimately to a cure. Wherever you are in the world, and whether you have a spinal cord injury or are a family member or caregiver, this is your site. You are invited to take part in it in whatever way you can. Join our mailing list and/or contribute to our forum and let’s see what we can make happen. "
I have done alot of research about disabled adventurers and their journeys in the world. There have been some truly amazing trips and the people that undertake them deserve all the glory that a/b's get. That said, here is a short list of some of my favorites,in no particular order.
> *UPDATE* Jimmy Goddard attempted to be the only para to ever attempt an ascent of Africa's Mt. Kilimanjaro. He is currently in the planning stages of another, more scientific attempt in '07.
> Vinny Lauwers, Australian Paraplegic who is the first paraplegic to single hand (by himself) sail non stop around the world. Check out his site here.
> Peter Rieke, American Paraplegic - Climbed to the summits of Mount Rainier (14,411 ft.), Mount Hood (11,239 ft.), and Mt. Shasta (14,162 ft.) using only his arm strength and his custom built, human powered SnowPod.
> Hilary Lister, U.K. Quadriplegic and the first quad to cross the English Channel in a sip and puff sailboat. I got an interview with her not long after her trip and you can read it here.
> Rick Hansen, Canadian Paraplegic and the first to self propel a chair around the world. 40,000 kilometers, thirty four countries and four continents.
> Mark Wellman, American Paraplegic scales El Capitan the highest vertical face in the world.
There is just so much going on in the world with wheelchair and disabled sports! Hopefully I can re-cap this weeks happenings for you. I want to let all of you know that Rollingpix.net is getting closer to completion and I will be back in the field very soon! Here are this weeks updates.
> Wheelchair Tennis - ITF Masters - Atlanta, GA. World's #1 Player Michael Jeremiasz's retirement due to injury gives Tadeusz Kruszelnicki the win and a spot in the semi's where he will face 4th seed Shingo Kunieda. Satoshi Saida and Robin Aamerlam are on the other side of the draw playing today.
On the women's side... World No 1 Esther Vergeer (NED) lead a trio of Dutch players in to the semi-finals. Vergeer smoked World No 4 Jiske Griffioen 60 62 to gether place in the final four facing Sharon Walraven. Walraven won even more convincingly , she blew by Maaike Smit (NED) 61 60.
The next (and last) tournament of the year on U.S. turf is the U.S. Open Super Series in San Diego Oct.3rd - 8th.
> Disabled Sailing - 9/20/06 U.S. Disabled Sailing Team member Rick Doerr wins the (open) Sonar Long Island Sound Championship.
I'm sure there is alot more going on than that but I need to work on a story about the W/C Tennis Fed. Bye for now.
I'm always looking for sites, web-zines, blogs and digital media to include here. If you want to be included leave me a message and I'll look it over.
Disabled World publishes a very informative bi-monthly magazine on all the worls topics on disabilities. Their mission statement says "Disability World is a new web-zine dedicated to advancing an exchange of information and research about the international independent living movement of people with disabilities," The magazine is very well organized by geographic location and each contain easily navigated links to various issues and media about our World community.
Hurricane and Disaster preparedness information can be found at Ideas4all, designed and established after Hurricane Katrina this site has state by state disaster planning resources on a very easy to use map.
That's it for today but like I said e-mail me the details and I will take a look.
"Keep your heads up and your wheels on the ground" unkown
All over the world people like you and I live with Spinal Cord Injuries and look forward to the Stem Cell as the cure for our condition. I do think that stem cell therapies hold a lot of promise for all disabled people, but not me. Don't get me wrong, I would go through the procedure any day, but I would much rather be bionic.
The media reporting on stem cells is ridiculous. Adult or Embryonic, each term sends the scientists and theologians, politicians and lay people spinning, confusing what the core issue is, improving a paralyzed persons quality of life. What never ceases to amaze me is that people would even debate on the subject of helping us to live, function and walk again. Bionics and prosthetics on the other hand completely eliminate most of those debates.
Stem Cell Therapies are being performed in Portugal, China and other places. Different doctors do different procedures, based on what their cultures dictate to them. Dr. Carlos Lima in Portugal works with the patients own nasal stem cells or OEC's. Dr. Huang Hongyun of Beijing, China is the maverick of the field, working with the ever contoversial fetal or embryonic stem cell. Both have had limited successes, but far more people have left with tens of thousands of dollars for the treatment and come back dissapointed and broke. Stem Cell Therapy is considered the "Grail" of medical science and I'm sure that one day it will be found.
Bionics and the vision of the cyborg are not new ideas either. "This merging of the evolved and the developed, this integration of the constructor and the constructed, these systems of dying flesh and undead circuits, and of living and artificial cells. have been called many things: bionic systems, vital machines, cyborgs. They are a central figure of the late Twentieth Century. . . . But the story of cyborgs is not just a tale told around the glow of the televised fire. There are many actual cyborgs among us in society. Anyone with an artificial organ, limb or supplement (like a pacemaker), anyone reprogrammed to resist disease (immunized) or drugged to think/behave/feel better (psychopharmacology) is technically a cyborg. The range of these intimate human-machine relationships is mind-boggling. It's not just Robocop, it is our grandmother with a pacemaker." [Cyborg Handbook, 322]
In the eyes of the blind a new bionic eye has been developed that will allow the blind to see again. A man who lost both both his arms has received limbs that although crude, function better than nothing. Jesse Sullivan has a video online demonstrating the functions of his new limbs. Claudia Mitchell, a 26 year old U.S. Marine also received a bionic arm from RIC. This arm is controlled by thought alone. Using it Ms Mitchell, 26, can now fold clothes, eat a banana and do the washing up.
At a press conference in Chicago to reveal her new arm to the world, Ms Mitchell said: "I can move my elbow up and down and I can open and close my hand simply by thinking that that's what I want to do."
I worry about what will happen with my body that has been "fixed" with stem cells. I have already broken my neck, drowning face down in a lake while completely conscious and I don't wan't to feel that again. Stem Cells are just as delicate as the cells they are replacing. It might sound crazy to alot of people but I wan't to be a cyborg. Stronger, faster, more durable and impervious to physical pain. The whole concept is awesome and the technologies are growing rapidly.
The person is always more than the sum of their parts but if we could have different parts, parts resistant to the ravages of age, disease and condition we might just be a little better off. What about you? If you could choose, would it be Stem Cells or Cyborgs?
Story taken from Extreme Chairing Aug. 8 '06In a story that continues to illutrate the determination of today's disabled person John "J2" Mryczko started a 40 mile trail ride in an 8 year old power chair. On his site he talks about having trouble early on the first day off the ride, “My chairs old, it’s going to be eight years since I've had it this January, and she's been through a lot.” The ride was intended as a fund and awareness raising effort for people living with spinal cord injuries. So far they have raised roughly $700.00 dollars of their $1,000 dollar goal. If you have a little scratch to spare I suggest you go here. The link takes you to a secure online donation form or you can mail a check to. Extreme Chairing - 9445 Ozanam - Morton Grove IL. 60053
IPC World Cycling Championships - 3 Gold Medals for the U.S. Team - 7 medals overall
IPC World Athletic Championships - U.S. ties for second in both the Gold and Total Medals count. Josh George (IL) won four golds. Tatyana McFadden won Gold, and set a new world record 16.31 secs. in the 100m.
Well then! Things with Rollingpix.net are proceeding much slower than I was hoping for. Business loans require plans and plans require work. I'm still doing everything by myself and now my plan is done and submitted. I am so glad that part is over. So much has happened in the w/c sports world in the past month.
Here are some highlights for you.
>Sept. 16, 2006 - The U.S. Quad Rugby team won the World Championships, narrowly beating the home team Kiwi's 34-30. They also went completely undefeated through the whole tourney, needless to say if this team stays healthy and together Beijing looks pretty good. (full results and photos)
>Aug. 2006 - Jimmy Goddard successfully climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro and became the record holder for any ascent using arm power. The guy then started a 1,019 mile trek in Scotland. That trip was abandoned on the 15th of this month due to Jimmy getting hit by a car. His site says he is un-injured but his chair and handbike are trashed.
I never cease to be amazed at what people are willing, and able to do.
I am continuing to move forward with Rollingpix. I incorporated as Rollingpix LLC and just today bought the domain Rollingpix.net.With everything else going on I haven't been updating as much as I should or would like to.I'm looking for an employee to crawl the sports I cover and post the results here. Other than that I'm doing well and will keep you all informed.
Photos copyright of J. Kraus R. Raymond and Rollingpix LLC
All pix copyright of John Kraus and ROLLINGPIX LLC
"Amputee athletes put their best foot forward in extreme sports competitions."
The first ever O&P Extremity Games were held at the Orlando Water Sports Complex July 28th - 30th. But this isn't Murderball, the X Games or Dew Sports Tour. The sports are the same, Skateboarding, Wakeboarding, Rock Climbing and BMX racing being the staples of extreme sports, with one major difference. O&P stands for Orthotics and Prosthetics and these competitions are specifically for people with amputations or a limb difference. This is a whole new animal in extreme sports, hell it's a completely new breed.
In this first of it's kind competition, the all amateur field of athletes 13 years or older was judged by four judges, and shared a $25,000.00 purse, with $5,000.00 going to the first place finishers. The 80 or so athletes from as far away as New Zealand and right here in Windermere are here because of Eric Robinson, President of College Park Industries and his colleague Stephanie Wallace. College Park Industries manufacturer of a specialty line of prosthetic feet. College Park Industries? Have I heard of it? Where in College Park is it?
Funny thing is, College Park Industries is based out of Michigan. It's not a conspiracy though, Florida is just a great place to have these kinds of events. I got to sit with Eric on Friday and ask him some questions about how the competitions came about. Eric's father was the developer of the first prosthetic foot and Eric along with others, constructed a next generation foot. This foot may have been viewed by the prosthethes user and distributor as a middle class product but Eric thought differently.
Envisioned as "an X Games for amputees" these contests were designed as a way to fill a need in the amputee community that just didn't exist until now. The tournaments co-founder, Eric Robinson said, "There wasn't any place where amputees could compete against each other in these sports. They have a desire to compete, but they needed a venue where they were going against athletes of the same capabilities. What is considered extreme for an amputee may not be for a person with all of their limbs."
One of my favorite definitions for extreme is extending far beyond the norm. I think that accurately describes these athletes. Not only in overcoming the obstacles in their lives. Dealing with their disabilities, and extending themselves with their new shiny metal limbs, competing in sports that would seem off limits.
Friday evenings Paintball exhibition was great. There were fifteen teams. The format was a little atypical, no flags, but standard five on five, frag till your out rules applied. Orlando's own Stinger's Paintball supplied all the equipment and the mix of players, amputee and able bodied, had a great time blasting the crap out of each other. Unfortunately there wasn't a clear winner, teams left early, didn't have all their players etc, but as I said it was alot of fun.
The main events started on Saturday morning at ten thirty. John Register from the U.S. Paralympics sang the National Anthem and Rock Climbing and Skateboarding went first. Watching the climbers on the 24 foot artificial wall was awesome. There were 56 competitors overall, some with single prosthetics and some with multiple limb replacements. Top honors with an 11 second climb and $5,000 dollars going to y from z. Separating second and third was just three seconds, 16 and 19 seconds respectively. My good friend from Cassellberry, Shawn WhIttaker who is a below the knee amputee, just missed the money with a 22 second climb.
Skateboarding was also very good. A six foot mini-ramp was set up right next to the rock wall and 10 athletes had two 60 second judged attempts in the first round. The top competitors went through to the next round and the winner of the $5,000 dollars was Charles House - Merritt Island, Florida2nd Place – Rob Nelson - Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina 3rd Place – Garry Moore - Birdsboro, Pennsylvania
BMX Racing was also extremely competitive. It seemed a little unfair in the fact that BMX frames and Mountain Bike frames were racing at the same time. The races were four at a time heads up. The winners in the first heat went on to the next round and so on. Anthony Zycowski, an arm amputee from Grand Rapids Michigan won the event on a mountain bike taking home the cash and bragging rights. Orlando's Brandon Spears did very well, finishing second overall, losing only by a nose and winning himself a thousand dollars. Rounding out the finishers was Christopher Morgan from Mesa, Arizona
Brandon was diagnosed with the rare but very serious Guillain-Barre syndrome at the age of three. Guillain Barre is a syndrome that affect's the central nervous system in 1 out of 100,000 people, causing weakening of the legs or arms and sometimes paralysis. He is a tanned, blonde haired, seventeen year old and well adjusted to his disability, despite wearing braces on both shins that go from just below his knees to his feet. Brandon also competed in the Wakeboarding event, which I thought was the best part of all the days events.
The Wakeboarding contest would best be described as a mixed board contest because there were paraplegics using sit-ski's and Brandon who was riding a wake skate. The contest was great fun all the same, 20 athletes competed in two passes with the best overall score winning. Sixteen year old Logan Aldridge who is a above the elbow amputee was throwing tantrums eight feet out of the water. Not that kind of tantrum though, the trick called tantrum where you flip upside down crossing from one wake to the other and land, hopefully on one's feet. Ironically, Logan lost his arm in a boating accident when he was thirteen.
All of the athletes in that contest were going really big, way beyond what you would expect. Quite a few famous amputees were competing. Amy Purdy who along with being a double leg amputee is a professional snowboarder, model, actress and non-profit founder. Brandon did well in the contest, landing a few great tricks, but falls took him out of contention. After all was said and done, the water settled and the top three were Sean Reyngoudt – Summerland, Florida. 2nd Place – Logan Aldridge – Raleigh, North Carolina. 3rd Place – Billy Tonis – Dublin, California
Everything about this weekend was amazing. The events themselves were free of charge. All of the facilities were accessible to disabled and able bodied, competitor and spectator alike, and was planned with every thought in mind. I had a great time and look forward to going back next year."
My attempt at doing all this by myself just isn't working to plan. When I started Rollingpix the only thing I knew was that wheelchair sports didn't have nearly the coverage by the media that they should. Eighteen months later I still feel that way, but there are just to many sports, and I wan't to cover them all.
There are so many stories to tell, and so many angles, the overcoming of barriers, naysayers, and lacks in social services. Rollingpix is just not enough. Don't get me wrong, I know I'm not alone on the net, I just need some extra help, or more hours in the day. Or both. Now that would be nice.
The O&P Extremity Games, an extreme sports comp for amps, is coming up next week, July 28th through 30th. I have already secured my creds for the event and might just have an opportunity to put an article in the local Orlando Weekly paper. I went by their offices yesterday and spoke with one of the editors. He seemed receptive to the idea and asked me to give him a synopsis of my idea for the story and he would "run it up the flagpole."
Long story short, that is my reason/excuse for not posting all week. If you are a writer or athlete or family member, and you wan't your story told, just send it to my gmail and I'll get it on.
ricky james- lake whitney
I found this young 17 and 1/2 year old bad a** on the Apparelyzed forums. I know nothing about him....YET.
Until then, here's the vids.
Photos © Chris Joseph and others
I am really amazed to have found this link. Quadriplegic and rock climber Brad Zdanivisky became the first quad to successfully ascend to the peak of the massive Stawamus Chief in Squamish, British Columbia. He has a great site detailing the climb, technology and people that made it all possible. (link)
Pro Sport/S. Wake
> Disabled Sailing - There are a number of regattas running simultaneously all over the world. To view a complete calendar of events click here. (link)
> Wheelchair Tennis - Wimbledon 2006 - Complete Results and a huge upset! (link)
> Quad Rugby - The U.S. Team won the 2006 Canada Cup posting an incredible 5-0 record! The next World Championships, in New Zealand will be in September. (link)
> National Junior Disability Championships - July 22/29 in Tampa, Fl. (link)
In my own news:
I am in the process of completing the app. for press accreditation at the 2008 Paralympics. I applied specifically for Sailing, Tennis and Murderball. It would be absolutely amazing to go to China, unfortunately only 5,600 journalists are going to be accepted. Hopefully I will be one of them.
Other than that I'm listening to BBC Radio 1 and rolling over to Myspace to work on that page.
Have a great week,
Ralph
I finally incorporated myself as ROLLINGPIX LLC! This is a huge step in the right direction. Rollingpix has been a dream for the past year and a half, now it is one step closer to being a full time career. Things are really going well for me, if you play sports or know someone who does, leave me a comment and I'll tel it.
You can check it out online here. (link)
July 8, 2006
"Matt Cole suffered a spinal cord injury T 10/11 in 2004 which has left him paralysed from the waist down. When he first heard that he was paralysed and wouldn't walk again he thought to himself; "I'll show them!".
This guy is heading out today on a 1200km handbike ride around the country of Holland. For my metrically challenged friends that's 745 miles. His ride, named "The Ride for Research, will start in Eibergen, take 29 days and end where it started.(read more)
I have been in the hospital for the past 5 days, including the 4th, with a bad infection in my shoulder. I'm all better now, ready to post all the past week's results in the wide world of wheelchair sports.
- Wheelchair Tennis - French Open - Satoshi Saida (JPN) crushed world #1 Michael Jeremiasz (FR) on the Frenchman's home turf 6-2, 6-3. Esther Vergeer (NED) continued her amazing unbeaten streak, dominating Florence Gravellier (FR) 6-1,6,2
The Frenchies did well for themselves, getting an athlete into both the Men's and Women's finals. It's just to bad they couldn't close the door. Meanwhile, David Wagner (USA), world's #1 quad beat Giuseppi Polidori (ITA) 6-2, 6-1 and won his third title in '06.
I got an e-mail the other day from Zurich, Switzeland concerning a website that's all about wheelchair sports videos. Newdisability's Director, a Dr. Gene Emmer has asked me to post their press release. Without further adieu:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
A Video Celebration of Wheelchair Athletes
Zurich, Switzerland -- Med Services Europe announced a Web Collection of “Cool Wheelchair Sports Videos”. According to Dr Gene Emmer, President of Med Services Europe, the free collection at NewDisability.com (direct link: http://www.NewDisability.com/videos.htm) is meant to be a “Video Celebration of Wheelchair Athletes” and to help to raise the awareness of wheelchair sports in the eyes of the public as well as the sports media.
“While the media celebrates the abilities of sports legends such as Kobe Bryant and Michael Schumacher, media attention to wheelchair athletes is minimal. Most sports writers can not name more than a few wheelchair athletes”, says Dr Emmer “But let’s see Kobe Bryant sink a 3 pointer or make a lay-up from a wheelchair.”
“Many wheelchair athletes have survived injuries that would have left the majority of us side-lined for life. They have not only come back from their injuries, they have shown us that they are heroes. But are we paying attention?” asked Dr Emmer.
“The media is simply not giving wheelchair athletes the coverage that they deserve. One of the few exceptions is the BBC, which devotes an entire section of its website to Disability Sport and regularly reports on wheelchair sporting events. They are setting an example for other leading newspapers and broadcasters around the world. Unfortunately, most of BBC’s videos are restricted to UK viewers only.”
“We are just at the beginning of building our video collection, but have already gathered a wide-range of videos representing a cross section of wheelchair sports and some exceptionally talented wheelchair athletes, including wheelchair tennis player Ester Vergeer, wheelchair basketball player Ade Adeptan, murderball player Mark Zupan and the young wheelchair skateboarder Aaron Fotheringham”
On the topic of challenges to creating the collection, Dr Emmer said,” One of our challenges is copyright issues. So instead of downloading the videos to our website, generally we create a link to the source website and the video opens directly when clicked. The risk is that each website uses different video players. Some prefer QuickTime, others Real Player and still others Media Player. Since not all computers will have all types of video players installed, some people will not be able to see all of the videos.”
“Our vision is that this will become the largest collection of wheelchair sports videos on the internet. Our hope is that it will serve as a resource for sports journalists and the public and help to raise awareness to wheelchair sports. We are asking the public to help us by suggesting cool sports wheelchair videos. And we are challenging the sports media to give these remarkable men and women the attention that they deserve.”
About Med Services Europe
Med Services Europe GmbH, a Zurich, Switzerland registered company. In addition to RehaDesign Wheelchair Gloves (http://www.newdisability.com/gloves.htm), the wheelchair gloves design for active wheelchair users, we represent Colours Wheelchairs (http://www.colourswheelchair.com) in Europe and the Middle East. We seek distributors and dealers for our products. Dealers are encouraged to contact us for more information at http://www.NewDisability.com or http://www.MedServicesEurope.com or +41764249963.
Jennifer French is a competitive sailor,, who just happens to have a spinal cord injury.I had an appointment to meet up with her last Friday at the St. Petersburg Sailing Center. Our appointment fell through because of some things in my life, (bad shoulder wound) but she graciously filled out this interview and returned it via e-mail. I am waiting for some good pix and I am more determined than ever to try sailing. In the meantime here is the interview.
Ralph: It's very nice of you to meet with me today, thank you and thanks for doing this interview.
Jen: Thank you. It’s my pleasure.
Ralph: So tell me about sailing...When did you start sailing and how did you get involved in it competitively?
Jen: Unlike many of these sailors, I was introduced to sailing by my (now) husband. He taught me how to windsurf on our second date, several years ago. From then, we enjoyed the sport of sailing various craft but did not get into racing until we moved to Florida about five years ago.
Ralph: What are the high and low points of your competitve years sailing.
Jen: Well, it really depends on the aspect. Just he ability to get out there sometime is a high in itself, especially if the breeze is up and you have a good team together. I enjoy sailing in bigger fleets rather than just a few boats, which also means competing against mostly able-bodied sailors. Probably one of my favorite moments was crossing the finish line in third place against a competitive fleet of 41 Sonars up in Marblehead, MA. Looking back and seeing all those spinnakers behind us. That was fun.
I guess low points are really what you make of them. I, personally, get frustrated with the politics of a sports admin. One of the more frustrating is when the medical classifiers determined that my blind teammate was no longer eligible to sail with under "disabled sailing". His condition did not change, but they changed the rules.
Ralph: What is it about sailing instead of any other competitive sport
that drives you.
Jen: There are several aspects of the sport that are attractive. Sailing is not only a physical sport but very much a mental sport as well. There is a lot of science involved.
Sailing is also a sport where the "disabled" can easily compete with the "able-bodied". We leave our wheelchairs, prosthetics, crutches, etc. on the docks and go compete on the water. No special privileges are given to us. Once we are on the water, we everyone is equal and every one is free game.
Ralph:I have looked at your website and it's great that your exposing more disabled people to sailing, however your last results from competion are from 2004! I googled for days to get those...Seriously though tell me how sailing alternatives came about.
Jen: Actually, I’m not involved with Sailing Alternatives anymore. Sailing Alternatives was founded in Sarasota by John Jorgensen. I’m not sure what they are doing these days.
Ralph: I also learned you are the Exec. Director of "The Society To Increase Mobility". I had never heard of it until I started researching for this interview. I have 2 questions about this.
1. What are your functions as director
2. How do you find the time to do all this?
Jen: The Society To Increase Mobility changed it’s operational name to Neurotech Network about a year ago. About three years ago, I co-founded the organization with another Board member. We found a lack of awareness epidemic regarding neurotechnology devices, which are medical devices that interact with the human nervous system to improve or restore function.
The non-profit was created for unbiased information dissemination and the assist the development of the industry. As President, I over see the operations and growth of the organization.
How do I find time? For something where you see a direct impact on people’s lives, it’s worth the extra time. I worked a lot before the injury and somethings just don’t change. I guess, if you want something done, give it to a busy person.
Ralph: I "Googled" you and there are thousands of entries, what are your other web based organizational involvements?
Jen: I don’t know if I can name everything off the top of my head. Recently, Triple Knot productions released a documentary film on our story. It won awards at the Houston film festival and is making its way around to others. It’s now being distributed by Aquarious Health Care Videos.
Ralph: You were one of the first people to have an FES implant for standing. How helpful is it for you and who in our community is it appropriate for?
Jen: The standing system is extremely helpful, however still experimental. It allows me to stand and move around using a walker. Functionally, it gives an alternative to the wheelchair. It also helps to combat secondary conditions associated with spinal cord injury such as muscle atrophy, osteoporosis, urinary tract infections, and contractures.
The system is appropriate for persons with SCI that have their peripheral nerves intact. The team at the Cleveland FES Center have implants persons as high as a C5 and down to a T12 level. It is a definite time commitment, of which I have found worth it. However, it is also a clinical study so everything is not perfect. I work with the research team to help them develop and better device.
Ralph: Tell me a little bit about your life outside of all this. Do you have children? What do you for fun?
Jen: No kids, but I have thirteen nieces and nephews. My husband, Tim, and I are pretty active. We also scuba dive, fly fish, canoe, bike. We enjoy the outdoors.
Ralph: It is obvious that having a SCI hasn't held you back from much, but what is it that you miss most about being able bodied?
Jen: Hiking mountains. I know it’s possible, but it’s just not the same.
Ralph: Is there any advice you would like to give on achieving goals that might seem impossible for a newly injured SCI?
Jen: Don’t give up. Small progress is better than no progress at all. Your attitude is everything.
Ralph: It's been a pleasure meeting you and thank you again for answering my questions.
Jen: Thanks, Ralph. I truly appreciate your coverage of so many sports.
The ITF and The British Tennis Foundation have announced the teams that will play in the Men's Doubles matches at the NEC Wimbledon Masters Series. This year's event, held on the 8th - 9th of July will feature the following pairings.
Michael Jeremiasz (FRA) and Jayant Mistry (GBR) Robin Ammerlaan (NED) and Martin Legner (AUT) Miroslav Brychta (CZE) and Tadeusz Kruszelnicki (POL) Shingo Kunieda (JPN) and Satoshi Saida (JPN)
This is only the second year at Wimbledon that wheelchair tennis, as a competitive sport, has been anything more than an exhibition. Lynn Parker, Disabilities Tennis Manager at The British Tennis Foundation had this to say about the '05 Tournament, won in straight sets by Mr's Jeremiasz and Mistry.
"Although we have had the exhibition games in the past, this tournament means we are integrated into Wimbledon and the players have had the same facilities given to them as the likes of Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova have." Quote taken from the BBC website.
This is a little off topic as far as "wheelchair sports" are concerned, but I think it's news worthy enough to include here. I have lived in Florida, in a chair, for eight years and didn't know about these agencies.
The first is the FSCIRC, the Florida Spinal Cord Injury Resource Center. Located on the Tampa General Hospital Campus, the FSCIRC'S mission statement says this,
"The Florida Spinal Cord Injury Resource Center (FSCIRC), established in January 1994, serves as the statewide clearinghouse of SCI resource information for persons who have survived an SCI, their families and friends, healthcare professionals, support groups, the media, and the general public. "
FSCIRC is actually operated by two quadriplegics, Brian Sterner and Justin Stark. In addition to there duties at the center, Brian and Justin find time to operate and play with the pro quad rugby team "Tampa Generals".
I went by and met with both of the guys a few weeks ago and they are great guys, doing great work, and they hooked me up with this next agency.
FAAST, or the "Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology is located in my State Capitol of Tallahassee. Their website says,
"Our Mission is to improve the quality of life for all Floridians with disabilities through advocacy and awareness activities that increase access to and acquisition of assistive services and technology."
I contacted them about their "alternative financing" program, a program where I can borrow anywhere from $500 to $20,000 for my business ventures with this website. They have other programs, such as the "Access to Telework" program, a program where a disabled person can procure the funds and technology to start a home-based telecommunication business.
Good stuff
Photograph by Rollingpix - Nasdaq 100 Open '05
Wheelchair Tennis - My fascination with World #1 Michael Jeremaisz (FR) has subsided a bit. He still deserves coverage here. He took part in an exhibition match on the clay of Roland Garros at the French Open, defeating Ronald Vink (NED) 6-2, 4-6, 6-1. I really hope next years Open will include Chair Tennis. (read more)
In other Tennis news... David Hall (AUS) the 23 major title winner has announced his retirement from the game. The six time ITF World Champion, who I had the pleasure to photograph in competion is the greatest player in the history of men's chair tennis. (full story)
Quad Rugby - The United States defeated Great Britain today 31-26 to win the 2006 North America Cup in Birmingham, Alabama. This 5-0 run over the top 3 teams in the world bodes well for the upcoming World Championships.
I have an appointment to photograph and interview one of the 2006 US Disabled Sailing Team Members. Her name is Jennifer French and she is amazing. My appointment is for Thursday of this week at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club. Stay Tuned.
- US Paralympics - Curtis Lovejoy Breaks American, PanAmerican Record in 200 Freestyle
- International Paralympics - 5 New world records in German competion
- 22nd Annual Hong Kong Wheelchair Tennis Tournament
Devoteegirls, a German website has translated and published my interview with Tyler Dieth. I think it's very cool that it's reaching a larger audience. Check out the interview here
Picture taken from Shake-a-Leg Miami
"Since early 1995, Sailing Alternatives has been working to provide access to the water for people with special needs. " I wish their site had some updated results from the competions but everything else is very comprehensive. They have licensed therapists and all the equipment neccesary for a SCI to have a great day on the water. You can check out their site here.
MarkInglis.com via AFP - Getty Images
- Double amputee conquers Mount Everest
- Paralympics - Kenya Receives Funding to Expand Wheelchair Basketball
- Paralympics (U.S.) - Registration Deadline for 2006 U.S. Paralympics Track and Field National Championships Approaching Fast.
- Quad Rugby - Scores Apr 7th - May 29th, upcoming tournaments.
- Wheelchair Tennis - Michael Jeremiasz suffers first loss of the '06 season (read more).
- Wheelchair Baseketball - U.S. Gold Cup begins July 6th with Great Britain vs. U.S.A.
- Disabled Sailing - IFDS Multihull Sailing Championships 3rd Aug - 11th Aug 2006
- Disabled Sailing - 2006 U.S. Paralympic pre-trial events named
Taken from Mike's website:
20 April 2006, Timor-Leste
"Well after a very severe blood infection in September caused me to take nearly seven months off, I am almost back on track again. I used the time productively. Once my health issue cleared in early December, I concentrated on swimming and gym work to improve my fitness. I also spent some time helping Sailability W.A. by doing some refitting work on the soling, Macquarie Magic to make it more user friendly. But for the most part, I worked on the next legs of my journey. Initially I was going to attempt to cross the Gulf of Carpentaria in April 2006, but commonsense and experience prevailed. I realised that I needed to wait for the weather window of October/November (2006), not only to cross the gulf at the right time, but also to be going down the east coast at the correct time as well. (more)
Read more about his record setting sail here, and the interview I did with hin last year.
Disabled Sailing:
The 2006 U.S. Disabled Sailing Team, in the Sonar and 2.4mR classes has been named. Nick Scandone, Rolex Yachtsman of the year in the 2.4 meter class, is a definte contender for a medal in Beijing '08. (more)
Powerwheelchair Soccer:
US National Tournament Arrival...Wednesday...May 31st Tournament Play....June 1 - 3 Lakeshore Paralympic Training Facility Birmingham, AL Registration Packet - Download Now!!
Wheelchair Tennis: ITF Wheelchair Tennis Coaches Workshop Team Cup in Brasilia, Brazil (15 May 2006) Twenty-five coaches from fourteen countries attended the ITF Wheelchair Tennis Coaches Workshop held following the 2006 Invacare World Team Cup in Brasilia, Brazil....
U.S Quad Rugby:
Current Results
Calendar
Murderball:
Voted for "Best Documentary 2006 Oscars"
I have been away for almost three weeks, no updates, pictures, interviews, nothing......SORRY. Rollingpix and everything involved with it really overwhelmed me over my birthday weekend. I had a minor nervous breakdown right before my b-day and wound up in the hospital. Well enough of my complaining...Time to get back rolling.
My friend John went to the tournament (NASDAQ 100 Open and got some pix of Michael Jeremiasz and Robin Ammerlam during the men's final.
- W/C Sports Australia Calender of Events.
- Mike Rowney - paraplegic sailor is underway again. (view position w/GPS!)
- Extreme Charing Events - Chairing for a Cure.
That's it for today. If you travel in a chair check out TripWheeling.com. They have 30+ reviews of accessible travel locations and you can post your own review. Pretty cool.
Taken from TheAge
A Japanese quadriplegic plans to climb to the peak of a Swiss mountain by riding piggyback on a mountaineer who will get some extra muscle from a robot suit. (read more)
- Shirley Reilly (AZ) Wins third consecutive Carlsbad 5k.
- Disabled Sailing - St. Petersburg Fl. Yacht Club 2006 Mid Winter Regatta (full results)
- Int. Paralympics - Invacare World W/C Tennis Team Cup Competition. read more
- USOC Names Steve Cook Paralympic Athlete of the month.
- W/C Tennis - Florida Open Men's final rained out, prize $ and points split.
- US Quad Rugby updatedScores
- Laurie Stephens named US Paralympian of the year.(read more)
- Spring Can-Am Paralympic Swimming Championships. (results)
- Atlanta to Host 2006 U.S. Paralympics Track and Field National Championships
- New rules for Power Soccer.
- NWBA Men's National Team Trials Apr.22
- Michael Jeremiasz and Robin Ammerlam in Florida Open Final.
They say that "even the best made plans fail," and I experienced the biggest failure ever. As you know I was supposed to be in Miami Bch last week, celebrating my b-day and photographing the NASDAQ 100 Open. On my way to the airport on the 29th I had the most overwhelming sickness of my life.
I have been in the hospital since then, just got out today. Non-refundable flight, hotel and tennis tickets.....bleh. All of my hard work was for nothing, but I'm not quitting. Stay tuned, I have plans for this "dis"ability of mine.
This project of mine is celebrating it's 1st birthday this week, and what a great year it's been. Rollingpix has opened so many doors for me. I have travelled, met great people and hopefully opened some eyes with my photography and journalism about chair athletes.
The interviews with Mike Rowney, Tyler Deith and Hilary Lister would not have happened for me without this vehicle to publish them. This is my second year attending the NASDAQ 100 as a credentialled journalist. I went to Vancouver, Canada for two months, a C 6 Quadriplegic, on my own.
Many thanks to everyone who has supported, inspired and helped me over the past year, and keep coming back.
- 2006 Blind Cricket Schedule.
- Disabled Sailing. Betsy Alison becomes full time as U.S. Disabled Sailing Team Coach. (more)
- Disabled Sports Hong Kong. 2006 Summer Schedule.
- Paralympics. 0 Doping Violations in Torino.
- US Quad Rugby. March Scores.
It has been 11 days since I posted last...Sorry. The latest news from the tournament, which started yesterday is as follows. Venus Williams and Lindsay Davenport, both previous winners, have withdrawn from the competion.
You can view results from Wednesdays and Thursdays draws and watch live scores on the NASDAQ 100 Open site here.
One week until my b-day!
FRIDAY: There are enough stars to fill the heavens over Key Biscayne. Friday festivities include Nadal, Agassi, Mauresmo, Hingis, Ginepri, Baghdatis, Henin-Hardenne, Kuznetsova, Nalbandian, Gonzalez, Petrova and Hantuchova all in action. Tickets still available.
Taken from US Paralympics
The U.S. Sled Hockey Team’s dreams of chasing gold were doused today after Team Norway outscored them, 4-2. The U.S. still has a chance at earning itself some hardware, as the team will now move on to the bronze medal match on Saturday. The first period set the pace for what might possibly have been the fastest-skating, hardest-hitting game thus far at the 2006 Paralympic Winter Games. > more...
If you want all the news on Wednsdays events click here.
Laurie Stephens (Wenham, Mass.) won the women's mono-ski Super-G competition, giving her two medals in two events. Stephani Victor (Park City, Utah) finished fourth...The U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey Team has taken a 3-0 first period lead in its must-win game against Sweden. Brad Emmerson (Amherst, N.Y.), Taylor Lipsett (Mesquite, Texas) and Alexi Salamone (Grand Island, N.Y.) scored the goals...Nick Catanzarite (Winter Park, Colo.) finished fourth in the men's mono-ski Super-G.
I got my e-mail response from the media credentials manager today, and as you can tell from the headline my application was approved! I can't believe how fortunate I am and all this effort with Rollingpix is really starting to pay off. Stay Tuned for more updates, this is going to be the best birthday ever.
Dear Ralph,
Thank you for your interest in the 2006 NASDAQ-100 Open. A summary of your organization's credential request is listed below:
Ralph Raymond,Internet - Approved
We appreciate your interest in covering the NASDAQ-100 Open.
Michael Corbo - Media Credentials Manager
I am going to do the best job I can and with a little bit more luck this will be the start to the rest of my new and great professional career. Thanks for your support and keep coming back.
Taken fromAdaptiveActionSports.com "Adaptive Action Sports creates and promotes opportunities for individuals with permanent physical disabilities to participate in "Action Sports" and the art and music scene that follows them. We create opportunities through grants and events." (
This is a really great site, please check it out and support them if your able
My name is Ralph Raymond and I operate a photo-journalism site for and about wheelchair athletes. I am in a wheelchair myself and for the past year I have been interviewing, profiling and posting Internet articles with some of the world's top w/c athletes. This e-mail specifically concerns the upcoming NASDAQ 100 Open Tournament, and my desire to be your correspondent there. To the best of my knowledge I am the only w/c photographer covering w/c events and it is my dream to make a career out of it. I was allowed to photograph last years match between Mr's Jeremiasz and Hall by David Tratner, the tournaments Director, and have re-applied for this years event. I am enclosing some of those pictures. I humbly implore you to consider my request, and should you accept it please contact Michael Corbo at
Otherwise please keep me in mind for any event you may need my services for. Thank you all for your tireless efforts and keep up the hard work.
Things have been quiet here for the past few days, the planning for the NASDAQ 100 Open is all done. We have confirmed our tournament tickets, hotel reservations are made, just waiting now to see if I will get media credentials.
David Hall '05 Nasdaq 100 by Rollingpix
This will be my fourth trip to this tournament which coincidentally falls on my birthday weekend. This tournament was the starting point of all of my efforts with wheelchair athletic photography and was the first place that I was actually given credentials to shoot from an on court position.
I really wasn't as well prepared for last years tournament as I could have, or should have been. I was escorted to my shooting position to photograph the semi-final match between the then World's #2 player, France's Michael Jeremiasz and the #1 player - David Hall of Australia. I took quite a number of decent pictures, I got overwhelmed, overheated and left after the first set and was to ashamed to return.
It took so much work to get there, I had no professional experience or affilliations with a newspaper or publication to speak of. The angle that I did have was that I didn't see any photographers that were actually in a wheelchair. I made a number of phone calls to the tournament director, explaining who I was and what my dreams were. He was willing to give me this oppurtonity on one condition...That I build a professionally looking website, three days before the tournament started!
That's how Rollingpix came to be, 30+ hours straight of coding and posting what available pictures of the previous tournaments. I sent the site to the Director and he graciously replied, "Call me when you get on site and we will have someone escort you to a shooting position."
Getting back to being unprepared, all I had for equipment was a 6.2 MP Canon EOS Digital Rebel and the EFS 18-55 MM Lens.I didn't get a chance to introduce myself to the athletes before hand and I believe that it made them both a bit unconformtable.
With luck on my side I am going to contact the Director again, now I have the equipment. I have a brand new 8.2 MP Rebel XT, Sigma 18-70 and Sigma 70-300 Tele-photo lens, shrouds, filters, 6 gigabyte memory card, tripods..the works. I followed my favorite players career all of '05 and there is nothing more I want then to succeed.
Wish me luck
Went to Tampa, Gambled at Seminole Hard Rock, Won $1,350 bucks...after being down $450.00, Met "The Big Show!", Did some photography, Went back to the casino, and lost my ass, Got a photography sponsor! .Colonial Photo & Hobby in Orlando. The owner was awesome and comped me about $60.00 bucks worth of gear......anyways.....here's some pix.from Tampa
World No 1 Michael Jeremiasz (FRA) held off a fierce challenge from fourth seed Tadeusz Kruszelnicki (POL) on Sunday to win his first Men's Main Draw Singles title at the Australian Open, part of the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour, at Melbourne Park.
Kruszelnicki, contesting his first Super Series final, was far from overawed by either the occasion or the top seed, forcing Jeremiasz to go all out to edge the first set on a tie-break. The match remained close throughout the second set, but finally it was Jeremiasz who held on for a 76(6) 64 victory that doubles his career tally of Super Series titles. As well as back-to-back Super Series crowns, the US Open champion was also maintaining his perfect record in 2006 with three wins from three tournaments
Content from the ITF
After being in the hospital for ten days it's good to be home. It's even better to come home and see that the world's No. 1 w/c tennis player has picked up where he left off in '05. Michael Jeremiasz (FR) has won the first two tournaments of this years NEC Masters Tour.
I have been in the hospital for the past ten days! E-Coli in my bladder and pneumonia with a fungal infection in my lungs. Laid me right out.
Yours truly has been mentioned in Ragged Edge Magazine:
"'People in chairs doing great things' in sport at RALPH RAYMOND's new blog. (01/19/2006)"
That's pretty dang cool. Check it out @ RaggedEdge.
