Veterans with Disabilities to TEE Off in Iowa

Strengthening Self-Esteem Through Adaptive Golf

WASHINGTON (August 25, 2010)- Nearly 200 military Veterans are
registered to tee-off in a unique golf tournament in Riverside, Iowa,
September 6 - 9, 2010, proving that having a visual impairment or other
disability does not mean they cannot lead a full and rewarding life.

"These Veterans, many of whom were injured during their military
service, will show that being involved in athletic activity can continue
regardless of disability," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K.
Shinseki. "I applaud all of the Veterans who will be traveling from
across the country to participate in this event, as they strive to
achieve their goals and continue to lead an active lifestyle."

The National Veterans TEE (Training, Exposure, and Experience)
Tournament provides visually impaired Veterans and those with other
disabilities the opportunity to develop new skills and strengthen their
confidence through adaptive golf as well as bowling and other
recreational sports activities.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) endorsed this important event in
2008 and it became one of VA's six national rehabilitation programs for
Veterans. Initially a local program, the first Tournament was held in
1994 in Nauvoo, Ill, and was attended by 36 legally blind Veterans from
six Midwestern states. In 1995, the event was moved to the Iowa City
area. Now in its 17th year, the Tournament has expanded to include not
only Veterans who are legally blind, but also amputees, those who use
wheelchairs and Veterans with other disabilities.

This year's event will take place at various golf courses in and around
Riverside, Iowa, including the Lake MacBride, Quail Creek, West Liberty,
Elks Country Club and Blue Top Ridge golf courses. The bowling events
will take place at Colonial Lanes in Iowa City.

Participation is open to U.S. military Veterans who are visually
impaired or have other disabilities including amputations, traumatic
brain injuries, certain neurological conditions and spinal cord
injuries. The participants receive care at VA medical facilities across
the nation, and many utilize VA's comprehensive visual impairment
services. Nearly 300 volunteers from the local VA Medical Center in Iowa
City and surrounding area will assist at this event.

VA is an unmatched health care leader in rehabilitation, with an
impassioned commitment to serve all our Nation's heroes, men and women,
past and present. The Tournament is hosted by the Iowa City VA Medical
Center, with sponsorship support provided by Help Hospitalized Veterans
and other organizations.

For more information about the National Veterans TEE Tournament or to
volunteer during the week, visit the Web site at www.tee.va.gov.

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