Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare's "Beat the Heat" Adaptive Sports Camp Returns for a Second Year of Inclusive Fun and Adventure

Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated adaptive sports and recreation camp, "Beat the Heat," for the second consecutive year. Building on the success of last year's triumphant relaunch, this year's event promises an even bigger and better experience for individuals with disabilities seeking adventure, camaraderie, and fun. This unique camp is tailored specifically for individuals over the age of 14 with disabilities who are eager to experience the thrill of adaptive sports and recreation in a competitive and inclusive environment.

From August 20-22, 2024, "Beat the Heat" will take place in Long Beach and Glendora, offering a diverse range of activities designed to challenge and empower. Participants will have the opportunity to try handcycles, compete in wheelchair basketball and rugby matches, play over-the-line, and even experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing. The camp will culminate with a day of exciting water sports, including sailing, outrigger canoeing, and gondola rides.

On Wednesday, August 21, 2024, Beat the Heat will feature a 15-20-minute Para Table Tennis Exhibition match between Ari Arratia, a former national team member, and Jerry Castro. Dean Maccabe, a gold medal winner in Wheelchair Rugby at the 2000 Sydney Paralympics and an Olympic torchbearer for the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, will also speak that day.

Registration will remain open through August 14 for those who want to participate in the event.

“Last year's 'Beat the Heat' demonstrated that adaptive sports have the power to ignite passion and build lasting connections. This year, we're excited to welcome both returning participants and new faces to experience the joy of sports like pickleball, tennis, sailing, and more. We aim to strengthen the sense of community and competition at 'Beat the Heat,' and hope to encourage even more individuals to discover the transformative power of outdoor adventure,” says Lisa Hilborn, MA, CAPE, Casa Colina’s Director of Outdoor Adventures and Recreational Therapy.

Building on the legacy of Casa Colina's renowned Outdoor Adventures program, which has been providing enriching outdoor experiences for individuals with disabilities since 1985, "Beat the Heat" embodies Casa Colina’s commitment to empowering all individuals.

To promote a safe and engaging experience for all, camp activities will be facilitated by trained professionals, including Casa Colina staff, volunteers, athletes, coaches, and professional outfitters. Adaptive equipment will be available to accommodate a wide range of abilities.

For information about attending, volunteering, or sponsoring this event, please call Casa Colina’s Outdoor Adventures staff at 909/596-7733, ext. 4161, or visit casacolina.org/BeatTheHeat.

About Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare

Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare is a nonprofit provider of specialized medical and rehabilitative care for people of all ages with disabling conditions resulting from accidents, disease, or illness. Its continuum of care includes medical-surgical and intensive care, acute rehabilitation, residential rehabilitation, and long-term residential care. Outpatient services include orthopedic and neurologic rehabilitation, physician clinics with nearly 30 medical specialties, children’s services, diagnostic imaging, laboratory, audiology, and day treatment. Casa Colina is also home to a research institute, adaptive recreation program, and several residency programs. Located in Pomona, with satellite outpatient services in nearby Azusa, Casa Colina has proudly served the Southern California community and beyond for 85 years. Visit www.casacolina.org to learn more.