LIVE . BEYOND . LIMITS

2012-01-12T14:10:00.000-08:00

CALLING ALL ADAPTIVE SNOWBOARDERS! CHECK OUT THE FIRST EVER ADAPTIVE SNOWBOARD COMPETITION SERIES at SIERRA AT TAHOE! THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO COMPETE TO WIN CASH AND PRIZES! RIDE AND RACE CAMP FEB 9-11 2012..... ADAPTIVE SNOWBOARD X COMPETITION FEB 12th TO SIGN UP FOR THE CAMP OR COMPETITION PLEASE CONTACT DANIEL GALE daniel@adacs.org

AAS has been included in the Toyota Halftime Handoff! Vote now!!

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Adaptive Action Sports has been given a great opportunity to win a $10,000 grant from Toyota in their Halftime Handoff program.

Click the link below to sign in to your Facebook and vote for AAS. It only takes a minute and will make a huge difference in the lives of disabled youth and veterans this winter!

Toyota Halftime Handoff!!!

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE BY FUSE MARKETING: FUSE ANNOUNCES 2012 SERVICE GRANT RECIPIENT: ADAPTIVE ACTION SPORTS TO RECEIVE $25,000 IN AGENCY SERVICES

2011-11-18T10:06:00.000-08:00

FUSE TO PROVIDE MARKETING SERVICES TO NON-PROFIT COMMITTED TO AIDING YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS LIVING WITH PERMANENT PHYSICAL DISABILITIES THROUGH ACTION SPORTS

BURLINGTON, VT, Nov. 18, 2011 - Fuse is pleased to announce Adaptive Action Sports (AAS), Inc., as the non-profit recipient of its 2012 Service Grant Program, which includes $25,000 in agency services.

“This grant project is a new addition to Fuse’s community engagement program that fosters charitable giving, advocacy, volunteerism and leadership,” said Brett Smith, Partner at Fuse. “It was both impressive and humbling to review the 25 applications we received this year. A large group of our staff has been involved in the selection process and we can’t be more excited to have chosen Adaptive Action Sports to work with in the coming year.”

AAS was co-founded by competitive snowboarders Amy Purdy and Daniel Gale in 2005. Its mission is to create and promote action sports camps, events and programs for youth, young adults, military personnel and veterans living with permanent physical disabilities.

“Amy’s personal story, passion and work are truly impressive,” said Smith. “She not only changes the lives of hundreds of young people with whom AAS directly works, but she also inspires the broader community – showing us that amazing things can be accomplished even under challenging circumstances.”

At age 19, Purdy – an avid snowboarder – lost her legs to bacterial meningitis. As she struggled to get back to her sport, she met repeated disappointment and frustration. At that time, snowboarding and other action sports were not considered suitable sports for individuals with disabilities. Eventually, with Gale’s encouragement, Purdy regained her snowboarding ability and today is the world’s top-ranked adaptive female snowboarder. With Purdy as inspiration, AAS shares her success story to help others find their own abilities through action sports. AAS continues to foster an attitudinal change in both the adaptive and able-bodied communities, where they raise the level of expectation and respect for the abilities and potential of adaptive individuals.

Purdy and Gale’s passion and commitment to AAS is evident. Fuse’s experience with action sports and youth marketing will assist AAS to broaden awareness and further its mission.

“We are hoping that our work with Fuse will help us popularize action sports for the permanently disabled,” said Amy Purdy. “We want both the disabled and able-bodied communities to recognize that action sports are not out-of-bounds for individuals with disabilities. We are confident that Fuse’s services will help us broaden our market reach. We look forward to telling the world about our organization.”

About Adaptive Action Sports (AAS)

Adaptive Action Sports (AAS) creates skate- and snowboarding opportunities, events and programs for veterans, youth, and young adults living with permanent physical disabilities. AAS believes that these sports encourage individuality and creativity while building independence and self-confidence within the disabled community. AAS has provided nearly 50 action sports events to more than 200 adaptive teens, young adults, and injured military personnel and veterans. The public face of AAS is represented by a group of successful adaptive athletes. They include Evan Strong and Amy Purdy, the world’s top‐ranked male and female adaptive snowboarders and Oscar Loreto and Evan Strong, top-performing adaptive skateboarders. AAS additionally draws on X Games, World Cup events and Olympic athletes. To learn more about AAS visit our website at www.adacs.org. To learn more about our Co-Founder Amy Purdy visit: www.amypurdy.com.

About Fuse

Fuse is a youth culture marketing agency founded in 1995. The agency connects brands with teens and young adults through sports, music, fashion, gaming and other relevant cultural interests. Fuse services include brand strategy, public relations, event marketing, design, social media and digital services. The Fuse staff, led by Partners Bill Carter, Issa Sawabini and Brett Smith, is comprised of marketing professionals and cultural experts who have worked for some of the most prominent brands and agencies in the country. Fuse was named one of Outside magazine’s “Best Places to Work” in the US, in 2011. As part of the agency’s community engagement program Fuse launched its annual Service Grant Program in 2011 which includes a donation of $25,000 in marketing services to a selected charity. The program aims to give back to young people by supporting a worthy cause that involves action sports, music, fashion, gaming, or other teen and young adult cultural interests. For more information, visit: www.fusemarketing.com, http://www.facebook.com/FuseLLC or http://twitter.com/fuse_marketing.

Adaptive Skateboard Championship Series including the Shoe City Invitational at summer X Games!

2011-11-12T12:27:00.000-08:00

AAS Initiates A.S.C.S.

This Spring, 2012, Adaptive Action Sports initiates A.S.C.S (Adaptive Skateboard Championship Series), a championship series of open competitions for intermediate and advanced skateboarders with disabilities. The 6-event series provides adaptive skateboarders, whose numbers have escalated in the past few years, an opportunity to compete for cash and prize purses on an established, annual basis. The competitions will be open to stand-up and sit-down athletes.

In 2012, four A.S.C.S. competitions will be held. Each will be preceded by a three-day AAS Pipeline learn-to-skate clinic, attendance at which is optional for competition participants.

AAS hopes to include the already existing event at Extremity Games at New Braunfels, TX, as an official stop. Additional tentative stops include the Shoe City Invitational at Summer X Games in Los Angeles, the Coco Beach Skatepark in Florida, the Berrics Skatepark in Los Angeles, Element YMCA Skate Camp and in Vancouver BC with 9 Lives Adventures. The 2012 season will act as a qualifier for the 2013 X Games component of the A.S.C.S.

After AAS’ incredibly successful Shoe City Invitational, held in last July at the Summer X Games 17 with a cash and prize purse of over $3000.00, AAS will strive to create a similar rewards package at each 2012 stop of A.S.C.S.

Please consider supporting the A.S.C.S. It is going to kick A.A.S.!!!

• A.S.C.S. will elevate the status of adaptive skateboarding to a professional level!
• A.S.C.S. will provide exciting, energetic and inspirational action sports events to an ever-growing spectator audience!
• A.S.C.S. will provide the increasing numbers of skilled adaptive skateboarders an opportunity to compete against their peers for cash and prizes!
• A.S.C.S. will provide industry sponsors highly-visible opportunities to link their brand to admirable athletes and inspirational athletic events with high international appeal.

For more information, contact AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at Daniel@adacs.org or visit the AAS website at www.adacs.org.

Adaptive Action Sports PSA from Adaptive Action Sports on Vimeo.

Hidden Springs Cuisine Cookbook is back!

2011-11-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

The beautiful little farm neighborhood Hidden Springs which sits just outside of Boise, Idaho created Hidden Springs Cuisine- Good Food for a Good Cause to help raise funds for Adaptive Action Sports and our programs. This cookbook was such a hit 2 years ago that we decided to bring it back! The cookbook includes favorite recipes from Hidden Springs locals plus recipes from Actress Beth Riesgraf, Pro Snowboarder Barrett Christy, Amy Purdy's favorite family recipes and many many more! Perfect for the Holidays, buy 2 1 for yourself and 1 as a gift!

Recipes include:

The best Chocolate Toffee you'll ever have
Squash Soup with Sauteed Shrimp
Prosciutto Parmesan Biscuits
Creamy Roasted Mushroom Soup

A message to Sochi Russia by private film maker Alex Houston....

2011-10-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

AAS supports "adaptive" snowboarding in the 2014 Paralympic Games in Sochi Russia. Have a look at this moving video asking the hosts to reconsider their decision, earlier this year, to NOT include the event at the games. Our effort to support these athletes will go on. Visit www.adacs.org for more information.

Any and all information perceived from these video(s) through either visual, verbal, or written means, should be considered the opinions of the Producers, the Writers and the Actors involved in the making of this video(s). They are not necessarily the opinions of AAS staff or of the AAS board members. But probably......

CHECK OUT THE LATEST ASX SCHEDULE

2011-10-31T00:51:00.000-07:00

THE 1ST ASX RACE IS ALMOST HERE!

CHECK OUT THE LATEST SCHEDULE UPDATES. MAKE SURE TO EMAIL US AT INFO@ADACS.ORG TO GET THE LOW DOWN ON HOW TO SIGN UP.

"One year lease." Nate Holland talks with AAS in our monthly "We Adapt" interview series.

2011-10-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

By Daniel Gale/AAS - Executive Director-Co-Founder

Nate Holland/Winter X 14/Eric Bakke/Shazamm/ESPN Images

As snowboarders, the drive to go fast and take risks is in all of us, some more than others. Some of us fill the need by challenging ourselves in the park, in the steeps or even in the backcountry. Still others fill the need by challenging other boarders: “Who can get down the mountain the fastest?” If you ask Nate Holland who’ll be first down, he’ll tell you: “I have to believe it’s me.” And, I’d believe him.

With an undeniably awesome “rap-sheet” of winning, Nate is unarguably one of the best Boardercross athletes in the world. A five-time back-to-back X Games Gold Medalist, he clearly knows how to get down the course quick . . . fast . . . in a hurry.

Last winter, I got to talk over a beer with Nate right after he raced in the Boarder X Finals at Winter X Games 15 and I quickly realized that -- although he’s a beast on the course -- he embodies every character trait that a proud mother would wish to instill upon a son. He’s giving, cares about family, supports his fellow US teammates, he’s passionate and, unlike many pro athletes, is very accessible. As Nate sipped his drink in Buttermilk Lodge, all smiles and stories with fellow racer Shaun Palmer (as if they just hadn’t finished racing the biggest, nastiest course in the world), it also occurred to me that Nate simply loves snowboarding.

But enough about what I think, let’s hear from the man himself.

Daniel: You are one of, if not the, most “winning” boardercross riders in the world? What is it about action sports that appeals to you? And, why snowboarding?

Nate: As a kid, I played more traditional sports. I always started on the team, but I wasn’t the star. When I won my first snowboard event at age 12, I was hooked. I recognized my talent. Snowboarding is a little more lax than traditional sports. It’s not so structured; and I don’t need a team to challenge me. Instead, I get out there and push myself against myself and that’s when progression happens. It amazes me and humbles me to still be learning new techniques.

Focus up! Photo Eric Bakke/ESPN Images

Snowboarding? I like the spontaneity of snowboarding. As a snowboarder, I can go out any afternoon and get some kicks though I gotta admit that being an Olympic Team member makes the sport more regimented. But, I still occasionally get the joy of deciding to do something at the last minute. Last year, for example, a couple of us decided at the last minute to go to Austria for the World Cup. It brought me back to my early snowboarding years. Only this time, instead of jumping in the car, we jumped on a plane.

Daniel: What’s the scariest moment you’ve had in your racing career?

Nate: Racing in boardercross, we have close calls every day. I’ve taken my share of tumbles and each is scary. I think they look worse than they are though . . . especially ‘cause, when I take a tumble, it’s when when I’m smoking down the course. But, I think I’ve numbed up to the fear. I’ve learned how to fall and I stay pretty focused on getting out of the situation. The real scares come when you’re watching someone else fall in front of you. You’ve got no control of that situation; where they may end up, if you’ll hit em and you just feel bad watching them crash. It’s what we do though.

Daniel: Do you still get butterflies in your stomach before a race?

Nate/Yellow Jersey/Gold Medal Start/Eric Bakke/ESPN Images

Nate: I get nervous before any race, but I try to use that energy to get a little edge. My results reflect that: the bigger the race, the more nervous I am, and – with the exception of little bobbles here and there -- I seem to do best under pressure.”

Daniel: Adaptive Action Sports athletes, like spokes athletes Amy Purdy and Evan Strong, have to “adapt” just to participate in action sports. We’ve found that, with the right amount of forethought, anything can be accomplished. Have you ever faced situations in snowboarding when you had to adapt to physical challenge? And, do you have any residual effects from injuries you’ve had over the years?

Nate: I broke my left ankle in 2005. I was in a cast for six weeks, but it was two years before I was comfortable. My first time back on the snow after my injury, I was getting tons of toe side chatter at full speed. I adapted my bindings from two to three straps and that helped a bit. Finally, the pain subsided, but I don’t have the range of motion in my left that I have in my right foot. And, yeah, my style had to adapt.

Nate/Winter X/Photo Eric Bakke/ESPN Images

Then in the last two X Games, I rode with bruised heels: nothing broken, just pain. But, you get in the mindset that a race like that only comes once a year. You just suck it up and go for it.

Daniel: Even though snowboarding is not a team sport per se, snowboarders still rely on a support system. How important is your support team to you? And, how important is it to pull knowledge from others who have experience?

Nate: I’ve been on the US Olympic Team for six or seven years now with the same coach, physical therapists and technicians. I’ve really learned to trust and rely on them and they’ve worked wonders for me.

I rely on my teammates, too. It makes me feel good knowing that I am surrounded with some of the best snowboarders in the world. Even when three or four of them are having a bad day, there’s still at least one showing World Cup speed. It’s a good way to gauge where your own riding level is at and what you have to do to get in top shape. At every training camp, I’m pounding the ground with the likes of Seth Westcott and Shaun Palmer. . . . Taking the heroes on in practice helps to elevate your own performance level. The challenge is always to be the best in the world.

Daniel: Last time we saw each other was last year at Winter X Games just after your race. We talked a little about AAS’ work with disabled youth and veterans. You mentioned to me that you’ve done some work with US troops. Can you tell us a bit about that?

Nate Holland and Danny Kass visit soldiers in the hospital in Afghanistan on an X Games themed tour to visit U.S. Troops. (Photo courtesy of Nate Holland)

Nate: I did two ten-day tours, one in 2008 to Afghanistan and one, in 2009, to Iraq. The idea was to bring the X Games to the troops. The conditions the troops face are brutal. Not once did I hear anyone complain. At one point, it was 130 degrees. I was in a t-shirt and shorts. They were in full fatiques with bullet proof vests. It was a real eye-opener. A couple nights we had to leave our bunks to go to shelters. Rockets coming in. Intense. One hell of an experience. Those guys put it on the line all of the time. The sacrifice that those men and women are making is huge. They’ve got my respect for sure.

Daniel: Are you planning to compete at the Winter X Games this year, and is the Olympic team a goal for you in 2014?

Nate: Absolutely, to both. My primary goal this winter is to reclaim gold at the X Games. I tell people that I only put a one year lease out on the gold medal. I’m coming back to get it. I know how to win that race and I know how to get back on that top step.

I’m going to compete hard for the 2014 Olympics, too. Olympic gold is the one medal that has eluded me. At Vancouver, once I started battling Robbins, I realized I wasn’t going to pass him on the upper course. I could have stepped back in my battle and insured myself silver or bronze. But I wanted gold. I knew I could pass him on the long straight sections; that’s where I’m strongest. Unfortunately, I got in a little rut, my base went flat and I slid out. But I’m proud that when I went down, I was going for gold.

Daniel: You’ve been in the sport a long time. How does your age and experience play into your career at this point?

Nate leads quarter final leg in a Wrld Cp SBX/Bad Gastein/Austria.

Nate: It’s true I’m not getting any younger. Every year, it takes a little more effort. I’ll be 33 on November 8. But, in boardercross, there is definitely something to be said for experience. Palmer is 10 years older than me. Westcott’s got a couple of years on me. But, we’re all still racking up podium time.

One race, I ran an inspection lap on the course then went down to watch some of the younger guys navigate a couple of the sketchy spots. The course was a bunch of nasty jumps to flat. Maybe one jump was to a good transition. So it seemed like, why hurt myself practicing? I was only down there 15 seconds, observing, when Westcott rolls up, laughing. We watched together and made mental notes: where to scrub speed, what speed to carry into the jumps, all of it. Because of our experience we were able to do that and make it work. We took our two practice runs, just before the race, and that was it. Both of us were on the podium: him silver, me bronze. We didn’t have to beat ourselves up practicing. With age, comes experience.

Wakesurfing/Idaho/Action Water Sports

Daniel: What are your summers like when you know you’ll be competing in such heavy contests and going for a spot on the Olympic team? How important is summer training?

Nate: I’m into three months of fall training in Utah. Last summer, I spent time in Idaho with water sports. My brother and I got a wakeboard/waterskiing school and boat tour company in Idaho. There’s a reason that we own all those toys: we love to play and sharing the stoke factor with other people is really cool. AAS might want to bring an adaptive posse up there next summer. It’d be killer.

Daniel: Seal it, stamp it and deliver it! We’re in. See you in Idaho.

Daniel: As you know, achieving Paralympic status for “adaptive” snowboarding is one of AAS’ primary goals. We’ve been working hard to do our part to assure that it happens. Just to take a quick second to catch you up: one huge component in our plan is this season’s upcoming ASX (Adaptive Snowboarder X) Championship Series, presented by AAS. This is a signature series of open competitions for permanently disabled intermediate and advanced snowboarders. The really great thing about this five-event series (including an invite-only stop at X Games) is that it will provide adaptive riders their first opportunity to compete for cash purses.

Nate: Man, that sounds great.

Daniel: Yeah, for sure, we are working hard to do our part. With the exception of the X Games stop, all of the competitions are preceded by a four-day Learn to Ride and Race training camp. This gives campers, who feel they are ready, to sign-up to compete in the open races along with riders coming just for the race.

My question here is two part: first, what do you think about having “adaptive snowboarding“ in the Paralympics? And, second, what do you think about our ASX series?

Nate: As to the Paralympics, for sure, I absolutely back snowboarding as a Paralympic sport, 100 percent. It makes absolute sense. Last year, I watched the monoskiiers at the X Games. They lay it on the line, charge, and don’t hold back. Yeah, the adaptive athletes are, in my mind, the baddest athletes at X Games. They’re just animals.

And, concerning your ASX series, I think it’s great. It’s important to provide that pipeline. All I can say is “Just keep at it!” My schedule this winter might put me in the vicinity of some of your training camps and races. If it does, I’d be happy to share some boardercross tips with your ASX participants. I’d love to give you guys all the tips I have. I’m not going to bullshit you that I know everything, but I have paid attention and I’ve got some good training exercises I can share. And, I can always offer encouragement. Perseverance is the key. For me, being a professional snowboarder was a dream of mine. After I racked up a pretty big credit card bill (it’s not a cheap sport), my parents said: “Put this dream to bed and come home. Regroup.” That season, I won my first grand prix. The rest is history. The hardship just makes for a better story in the end.

Nate Leads Wescott and Schiavon for the Gold/Eric Bakke/ESPN Images

Daniel: So what’s on deck now for Nate Holland?

Nate: Till Thanksgiving, I’m in Utah doing dry land training. Then, I head to Colorado in early December to start snow training. Then, the first World Cup in Telluride in December followed by the X Games and the full World Cup circuit. I got a new race technique that I learned this season at Mt. Hood.

Daniel: Oh yeah? What is it?

Nate: I can’t say man, but just look for me being on the podium more often. And, I’d love to come down and watch the ASX races. We’ll make some time for the gym and I’ll go over a couple of key exercises that I think might be useful to your riders.

Nate collects gold at the 2010 X Games, Seth Wescott left for silver and Alverto Schiavon on right took bronze/Eric Bakke/ESPN Images

Daniel: Good deal Nate. Thanks for the time.

Nate: No doubt, Dan, talk soon……

Keep an eye out for Nate and the Adaptive Snowboarder X this winter at the ESPN X Winter Games 16! Make sure to Nate and his brother a visit in Idaho next summer at Action Water Sports!

Adaptive Action Sports is back at Winter X Games!

2011-09-17T16:40:00.000-07:00

This winter, 2011, Adaptive Action Sports initiates A.S.X (Adaptive Snowboarder X-Cross), a championship stand-alone signature series of open competitions for permanently disabled snowboarders. The 4-event series provides adaptive riders, whose numbers have escalated in the past few years, their first opportunity to compete for cash and prize purses. A fifth invite only stop at the ESPN Winter X Games will challenge the top riders in the sport to their maximum!

This is an invite only event. Official invitations will go out individually via email. Cash and prize purse amounts yet to be determined. Additional information including lodging and ticket options will be made available on the adaptive action sports website shortly. For immediate assistance regarding this or other AAS events contact executive director and x games sport organizer Daniel gale at Daniel@adacs.org. For media or sponsorship opportunities please contact aas co-Founder and development director Amy Purdy at amy@adacs.org.

AAS Presents A.S.X. "Adaptive Snowboard X" Championship Series!

2011-09-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

This December, 2011, Adaptive Action Sports initiates A.S.X (Adaptive Snowboarder X-Cross), a championship stand-alone signature series of open competitions for permanently disabled snowboarders. The 4-event series provides adaptive riders, whose numbers have escalated in the past few years, their first opportunity to compete for cash and prize purses.

Event spectators will enjoy, on a larger and more frequent scale, the same action, skill and inspirational courage that adaptive riders have recently displayed on AAS-hosted USASA (Undited States of America Snowboard Association) and X Games bordercross courses.

AAS will adopt a classification and standards system for A.S.X. In order to promote fair competition, the system will be designed to delineate the effect and impact of various disabilities and their level of impairment on, for instance, the athlete’s balance and mobility.

In 2011-2012, the A.S.X. competitions will be held separate from, but coinciding with the last day of, four AAS Pipeline learn-to-ride-and-race clinics. (See schedule.) To provide race experience for clinic participants, amateur-level competitions will be held on the last morning of each clinic. The championship competitions, registration for which will be limited to intermediate and advanced riders, will immediately follow.

After an incredibly successful Summer X Games 17 Skateboard Competition, The Shoe City Invitational, with a cash and prize purse of over $3000.00, AAS will strive to create a similar rewards package at each stop of the A.S.X. Championship Series with a finals to outweigh them all!

The A.S.X. Championship Competition Series is going to kick A.A.S.!!!

· A.S.X. will elevate the status of adaptive snowboarding to a professional level!

· A.S.X. will provide exciting, energetic and inspirational action sports events to an ever-growing spectator audience!

· A.S.X. will provide the increasing numbers of skilled adaptive snowboarders an opportunity to compete against their peers for cash and prizes!

· A.S.X. will provide industry sponsors highly-visible opportunities to link their brand to admirable athletes and inspirational athletic events with high international appeal. Interested in putting your brand name on the A.S.X. Series? Join the likes of Google, Vans and Volcom as we make history! Contact AAS Development Director Amy Purdy with sponsorship inquiries at amy@adacs.org.

Registration opens on Sept. 30th for A.S.X. Series Races 1 and 2. Plan on attending A.S.X. series stop 2 or 3 if you want to compete in the finals for the big bucks and the title!

Finals will be held at the USASA Nationals in Copper Mountain Colorado. A USASA membership is required to compete. USASA events are open to all adaptive riders competing in the A.S.X. series or not. For additional information on USASA visit http://www.usasa.org/. A.S.X. cash and prize packages are only given to those registered with Adaptive Action Sports. Cash and prize package amounts are yet to be determined. Cash and prize packages will be distributed throughout the entire competing field.

Dates are subject to change. X Games event is subject to cancellation and will be an invite only event.

For additional information, contact AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at Daniel@adacs.org or visit the AAS website at http://www.adacs.org/.

NOTICE- THE FEB DATE AT SIERRA AT TAHOE HAS BEEN CHANGED TO FEB 9-12th with the ASX RACE BEING HELD ON THE 12th

Shoe City Invitational at ESPN X Games 17 presented by AAS

2011-09-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

July 31, 2011, was a huge day at the ESPN Summer X Games for skateboarders with physical disabilities. The first annual Shoe City Invitational and AAS Adaptive Skate Clinic,” deputed for permanently disabled youth and veterans.

In the morning starting at 9 am, Adaptive Action Sports – with support from Shoe City -- hosted a learn-to-ride skateboard clinic. Among the individuals who showed up for the clinic was Jami Goldman, a Paralympic runner and double below knee amputee, and Cody Reid, a 3 year old single above knee amputee with a heart of gold. Cody reminded us all of why we do what we do! Thanks also to Danielle McLaughlin and George Garcia Jr. for attending the clinic.

Levi Brown, Robert Brink and Chad Tim-Tim; guest judges

In the afternoon, five of the best “Adaptive” Skateboarders in the world competed for a prize purse of over $3,000.00. Element team riders Levi Brown and Chad Tim Tim were on hand with renowned skateboard journalist, Robert Brink, to judge the afternoon event.

The competition was held in a best of 3 run format with a jam session at the end. A bonus $100 was thrown on top of the pot for best trick during the jam. Needless to say Levi, Chad and Robert had their work cut out for them while judging the likes of Oscar Loreto (single-below the knee amputee), Evan Strong (single-below the knee amputee) Greg Shaw (Greg’s adaptation is something called sacral agenesis, at birth, a cell “mis-divides” and causes a defect in leg development. Greg is also missing two vertebrae in his spine), Buddy Elias (a single-above the knee amputee recently from a single-below the knee amputee) and Justin Beauchesne (a quad-amputee).

The competition was unbelievably exciting and undeniably awe inspiring. Each skater pushed themselves physically and mentally searched for their most innovative tricks to manufacture on course. From Greg Shaw’s powerful 360’s to Justin Beauchesne’s pressure-flip variations there wasn’t a definitive moment to take your eyes off course.

Shoe City Invitational Adaptive Skate Contest at X Games 17 from Adaptive Action Sports on Vimeo Produced and Edited by Oscar Loreto

Greg Shaw had a 1^st place winning experience at this, his first, AAS event. “AAS gave me a chance to be out here and to be free. It’s a great organization where kids like me can get out and achieve their dreams” Greg said of Adaptive Action Sports.

Greg Shaw, 1st Place

Evan Strong put together a strong showing and walked home with a 2^nd place finish followed by Justin Beauchesne in 3^rd. Oscar Loreto finished in 4^th place just squeaking by the one and only Buddy Elias who placed 5^th.

Every skater won who attended the event. The cash purse was divided throughout the total field. “We believe that these amazing athletes deserve the same opportunities as able bodied pros; competition and financial support” says Daniel Gale, AAS Executive Director and Co-Founder. “We also believe that every athlete who attends our competitions deserves a portion of the purse” Gale added.

The AAS X 17 competition was the third event of the summer sponsored by Shoe City in 2011. The preceding competitions were held on June 25 by the organization Life Rolls On at the Venice Skate Park in Venice Beach, CA, and by Extremity Games on June 24-25 at Texas Ski Ranch, San Antonio, TX.

“It’s a great thrill to help such a deserving community” said Leedy Ying, Shoe City President, adding “It was an awesome event and I am looking forward to future adaptive skateboarding events with Adaptive Action Sports.”

3 year old Cody Reid and Evan Strong

“We are excited to expand our adaptive skateboard opportunities at the X Games and to have Shoe City support our mission,” says AAS Co-Founder and Development Director Amy Purdy. “The addition of a “learn to skateboard clinic” and a competition for a cash purse will open new doors for adaptive skateboarders everywhere,” she added. Amy had no reservations crediting the X Games for their generosity and support, making the statement that “X Games has been an amazing five-year supporter of AAS adaptive programming and continues to provide a great venue, bringing together able bodied and adaptive athletes.”

To check out firsthand what these awesome athletes can do and you are in the Los Angeles area make sure to attend the “Get on Board” AAS Skate Clinic, Demo and Fundraiser on Saturday September 17^th at the Shoe City Center in Whittier California. Contact the Los Angeles AAS L.A. Skate Sector Program Coordinator Oscar Loreto for more details, Oscar@adacs.org.

AAS would like to say a special thank you to all of our sponsors including; Shoe City, Freedom Innovations, Element, Vans, Dakine, Protec, VitaCoco and the ESPN X Games.

For more information on the Shoe City Invitational/AAS Adaptive Skate Clinic Experience, please contact AAS Co-Founder/Executive Director Daniel Gale at Daniel@adacs.org. For media or sponsorship inquiries please contact AAS Co-Founder/Development Director Amy Purdy at Amy@adacs.org.

Adaptive Action Sports, Inc., is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to create and promote Action Sports camps, events and programs for youth, young adults and wounded veterans living with permanent physical disabilities. Since 2005, AAS has sponsored over two dozen action sports events and is widely credited with the development of adaptive Skateboarding, Moto X and Snowboarding.

About Shoe City;

Shoe City is located in the heart of Los Angeles, featuring 32 retail stores located in the Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. We have been in business for over 30 years, giving the people of Los Angeles a nice, comfortable place to shop for shoes.
Shoe City carries the latest and hottest brands of shoes. With brands such as Vans, Nike, and Converse, shoes for the whole family. Shoe City also carries Skechers Shape Ups and Reebok Easy Tones. You will find skate brands like DC, DVS, Lakai, Circa, Etnies in our stores, and athletic brands such as Reebok, Jordan, Adidas, KSwiss, Puma, and much more. We have all sizes from a baby size 1 to a men size 15.

Need sandals? Shoe City carries sandals from Roxy, Oneill, Quiksilver, Rainbow, Reef, and fashion sandals from companies like Classified and Soda. You can also find all the accessories you want from Jansport backpacks, Nike socks, purses, hats, and skateboards. For more information, visit http://www.shoecity.com.

Shoe City Invitational from Daniel Gale on Vimeo. This additional footage courtesy of the ESPN X Games

Buddy Elias

Amy Purdy and Jami Goldman

5-O from Oscar Loreto

Justin Buchesne

Greg Shaw

Evan Strong

The Whole Posse! Thank you to all of ya!!

Travis Pastrana talks to Adaptive Action Sports, kicking off "We Adapt," a new series of monthly interviews with top athletes.

2011-08-15T17:17:00.000-07:00


Travis Pastrana / C.Van Hanja/ESPN Images

By Daniel Gale, Executive Director/Co-Founder
Adaptive Action Sports - Click Here to Support Us!

As we carefully pushed pyramids of swag-filled boxes stacked on top of our skateboards, Kep and I could already feel the energy building. We were passing the Staples Center, heading towards Nokia Square and the Adaptive Action Sports booth at ESPN X Games 17. Two hours later, the gates opened and the general public poured in. The X Games Village became a bustling metropolis that hummed with anticipation. In true “Taco-Bell” and “X” style, the machine that is ESPN quickly got a single phrase “trending” through the thousands attending: “PASTRANA-THON!”

Travis Pastrana, one of the undisputed heavy-weight champions of X Games, was gearing up to do something unprecedented. The plan was to compete in Moto X Best Trick on Thursday (the first night of X Games), throw down in Moto X Freestyle on Friday night, fly to Indianapolis to drive in his first NASCAR race ever on Saturday and fly back to Los Angeles in time to compete in RallyCross on Sunday.

Seriously! That was his plan.


Travis, 720 attempt at X Games 17 Garth Milan/ESPN Images

If anyone could have done it, it would be Travis. However, with an unfortunate “twist” (pun intended), Travis nixed the “Pastranathon” by under-rotating a trick that has eluded him for two years at X Games: the 720.

The crash resulted in more than 20 fractures in 8 bones from his tibia through his ankle and into his foot. Obviously that would mean that Travis would be done for the weekend….right?

Wrong!

In true Pastrana fashion, he shocked everyone on Saturday by driving onto the X Games RallyCross practice course. Embodying the “We adapt” AAS truism, Team Travis worked all night to install a hand control system in his race car to give him the opportunity to compete.

I had the unbelievable honor of interviewing Travis Pastrana after his amazing appearance in RallyCross at X Games 17.

Thanks for the time Travis, and heal up soon.

Dan Gale: What is it about being an action sports athlete that appeals to you the most?

Travis: Riding a motorcycle is what I’ve loved to do since I was 4 years old and my parents used to take me trail riding every weekend. The sports have evolved, but I enjoy that the mindset has remained the same. . . . Push the boundaries of what’s possible for yourself. If you push yourself far enough, before you know it, you are pushing not only your own boundaries but also the limits of what others believe to be impossible. . . and that’s where it really gets exciting!

"Focused" / Photo: Christian Pondella/ESPN

Dan: Have you ever competed in team sports? If so, what’s the difference between action sports and team sports?

Travis: Every sport is essentially a team sport and I’ve yet to see anyone succeed without close friends or family or some sort of team supporting them. The difference is that, in action sports, when game day comes around, the ball is always in your hands. Good, bad or indifferent, the result is ultimately in your hands.

Dan: What is the scariest moment in your life?

Travis: Anytime I’m unprepared to do my job. If you know what to do and you are aware of the risks, no matter how daunting the task, you have weighed risk to reward and determined it is worth it. I guess that could also be applied to not being in control. I get nervous a lot for my friends when we film nitro circus, especially when the risk to reward doesn’t add up in my head.

Dan: What inspires you?

Travis: People who do what they are passionate about, no matter what criticism or obstacles stand in their way.

Dan: Our athletes “adapt” in order to participate in action sports. We have found that, with the right amount of forethought, anything can be accomplished. During the X Games you had an injury that made you sit out Moto X Freestyle but you “adapted” to your injury and still competed in the RallyCross. Can you tell us a bit about that; what it was like to have to adapt?


"If you can't Duct it F*ck it!" Travis tapes his foot the gas! Christian Pondella/ESPN

Travis: Athletes in any sport find themselves constantly adapting to injury. Two days before X Games I tore the flexor tendon from my middle finger off the bone. Without use of my middle finger and without time for surgery, we simply taped my middle finger to the pointer finger. This was a minor adaptation but it meant less fingers to hold onto the bar and an extra finger working the clutch.

After best trick, my rally team and I were forced with a much bigger adaptation. With more than 20 fractures in 8 bones from my tibia through my ankle and into the foot, there was no quick fix. The thought process though was simple: can we find another way to work the throttle? Could I learn how to use the new method of hand controls fast enough to be competitive and also not be a danger on the track? Could I tolerate the pain . . . especially knowing I wouldn’t be able to use any pain killers or even most over the counter medication due to safety and event rules.

I decided it was worth a shot and the team worked all night to get the car ready. Hand controls were installed. Was it ideal? No. Did I win? No. Was it an amazing experience both for me and the team? Hell, yes.

"Was it an amazing experience both for me and the team? Hell, yes." Travis Pastrana / photo Christian Pondella/ESPN

Dan: Have any of the injuries you’ve had over the years left residual effects? Do you have any injuries that have made you adjust or “adapt” full time?

Travis: Yes, my right knee doesn’t bend past 90* and my left shoulder falls out of socket when it goes over my head. I have to adapt my tricks accordingly.

Dan: Other than the fact that you are a robot superhuman, how do you lessen your recovery time? What things – like consistent practice, cross training and or diet – do you use to recover?

Travis: The day you stop moving is the day you die. The body will recover stronger and faster than any doctor will credit if you just put in the work to make it happen.

Dan: Can you offer any encouragement or keys to success to the segment of the “adaptive” community (including our injured veterans) who are, or may want to, participate in “action sports” within a safe environment like our Adaptive Action Sports programs or the DirtFish Rally School?

Travis: If you think you can, you can!

Don’t let anyone tell you different!

C.Van Hanja/ESPN Images

Travis Pastrana, 5th from the right, pictured here at X Games opening press conference.

C.Van Hanja/ESPN

Travis Pastrana and Shaun White /

C.Van Hanja/ESPN Images

Travis taking the Rallycross dirt jump.

C.Van Hanja/ESPN Images

C.Van Hanja/ESPN Images

“Veterans in Action-Stay on Track” Rallycross Camp at DirtFish Rally School Concludes at X Games 17!

2011-08-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

On July 12-13, three injured Veterans had the opportunity to skid and tear their way across coarse terrain as guests at a two-day training donated to Adaptive Action Sports, Inc., by the DirtFish Rally School (www.dirtfish.com) in Snoqualmie, WA.

The training was a kick-off event in an AAS rallycross train-and-race series called “Stay on Track.” The series, which will eventually be open to permanently disabled Veterans and non-Veterans alike, was inaugurated as part of a new Veteran-specific AAS program called “Veterans in Action.”

The AAS mission is to provide opportunities for permanently disabled individuals to participate in Action Sports, such as skateboarding, snowboarding and rally racing. “In 2010, we were able to expand our existing Action Sports programs to include a Veterans-in-Action focus,” explains Daniel Gale, Executive Director of the nonprofit AAS. “Our first two Veterans Learn to Ride and Race snowboard camps, held in 2011, were very successful. From these camps, we learned that ‘getting back in action’ is the preferred means by which many injured military personnel successfully cope with their disabilities. This was the stimulus for our Stay on Track program.”

The rally camp was held at DirtFish Rally School, North America’s premier rally training facility. DirtFish’s 315-acre property offers a unique learning environment. “None of the Vets attending this inaugural program knew quite what to expect,” says Gale, “but undeniably they were pleasantly surprised by the experience. With mud, gravel, and dirt surfaces peppered among abandoned warehouses and buildings, DirtFish offered the Veterans a dramatic setting in which to learn how to race a car.”

Clinton Okada, a single below the knee amputee, was one of the Veterans who attended. “This was one of the most memorable experiences of my life,” Okada said of the two-day intensive training. He was accompanied by his fellow “battle buddy” John Beaver.

Beaver and Okada were together when Okada lost his leg in Afghanistan. Their vehicle was exploded by a deep-buried IED that created a chaotic scene. Although injured himself, Beaver earned a second Purple Heart by pulling Okada to safety with the help of another soldier.

ADACS.ORG/ DIRTFISH RALLY SCHOOL from Bttocs on Vimeo.

“It was great to share this with Clinton,” said Beaver adding “I will think of this when I think about Okada instead of battle.” (Watch the official AAS DirtFish video on www.adacs.org to hear more about their story.)


Injured vet Brad Steensma, left, with Tanner Foust at X 17

Injured Vet Brad Steensma was also on hand for the AAS Dirtfish training. On the second day of camp, Okada, Beaver and Steensma participated in a friendly timed-race with Steensma coming out on top. As a result, Brad was given the opportunity to attend X Games 17 on July 31^st to watch the RallyCross event live. As part of his prize, Brad also had the opportunity to meet top drivers Dave Mirra, Robbie Maddison and Tanner Foust. To top off his experience the above PSA (Video), in which Brad appears, was aired live on site just minutes before the Rallycross Finals.

“I can’t thank AAS enough for this whole experience: from the DirtFish Rally School training all the way to X Games. I’d do it again in a second” said Steensma.

A long-range “Stay on Track” goal is to provide sanctioned, recognized rally racing opportunities for adaptive drivers. “Our down-the-road vision,” Gale said, “is to gain adaptive divisions within regional rally racing events and, of course, potentially an adaptive X Games rally contest.”

“We’re thrilled to support Adaptive Action Sports in its mission,” said DirtFish President, Ross Bentley. “We’re really looking forward to working with the adaptive drivers that AAS represents. We can give them a great foundation of skills on their quest to be professional rally drivers.”

DirtFish offers a range of training programs for all levels of drivers. In addition to many passionate thrill seekers, DirtFish has also worked with action sports stars like Dave Mirra and Shaun White.

AAS would like to say thank you to all of the sponsors that supported this event including DirtFish, Freedom Innovations, Udo's Oil "Oil the Machine", Coal Headwear, Contour Cameras and Bradley Scott Films.

For additional information, contact AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at 619-770-0240 or Bruce Cleland of DirtFish Rally School at425-577-2616.

Brad and The Stig!

Injured Vet Brad Steensma on left with Robbie Maddison

Brad and Dave Mirra

Stay on Track Adaptive Rallycross Camp at Dirtfish Rally School!!!

2011-06-23T13:33:00.000-07:00

Adaptive Action Sports and Dirtfish Rally School present "Stay on Track" Rallycross Camp!!

read more below

On July 11-12, four injured veterans, working with Adaptive Action Sports “Veterans in Action” program, will have the opportunity to skid and tear their way across coarse terrain as guests at a two-day training being donated by the DirtFish Rally School (www.dirtfish.com) in Snoqualmie, WA.

The training is the kick-off event in a rallycross train and race series called “Stay on Track” by Adaptive Action Sports (AAS), Inc., a non-profit whose mission is to create and promote Action Sports camps, events and programs for youth, young adults and military personnel/veterans who live with permanent physical disabilities. Since its founding in 2005 by Amy Purdy, a below-the-knee double amputee, and board sports enthusiast Daniel Gale, AAS has primarily made skateboard and snowboard opportunities available to that segment of the disabled population who thrive on meeting the challenge and risk offered by these sports.

“In 2010, we expanded our existing programs to include a Veterans-in-Action focus,” explains Daniel Gale, AAS Executive Director. “Our first two AAS Veterans Learn to Ride and Race snowboard camps, held in 2011, were very successful. From these camps, we learned that ‘getting back in action’ is the preferred means by which many injured military personnel successfully cope with their disabilities.”

In response to Veterans’ requests and with help from sponsors like Freedom Innovations and the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), AAS is launching continuing opportunities for Injured Military Personnel and Veterans to learn and improve their rally racing skills or “Stay on Track.” The Track will eventually provide competition opportunities.

The camp will be held at DirtFish Rally School, North America’s premier rally training facility. Their 315 acre property offers a unique environment to learn. With mud, gravel, and dirt surfaces peppered amongst abandoned warehouses and buildings, DirtFish offers a classroom akin to a real-life video game. DirtFish recently hosted the second stop on the Global RallyCross circuit.

DirtFish offers a range of training programs for all levels of drivers. In addition to many passionate thrill seekers, DirtFish has also worked with action sports stars like Dave Mirra and Shaun White. “We’re thrilled to support Adaptive Action Sports in their mission,” said DirtFish President, Ross Bentley. “We’re really looking forward to working with these students and giving them a great foundation of skills on their quest to be professional rally drivers.”

Participants at the July 11-12 camp will learn left-foot-braking, advanced steering skills, handbrake turns, braking on various surfaces, skid control, advanced cornering skills, competition starts, the use of pace notes, and techniques for reading the terrain. Courses will include asphalt, gravel, dirt and mud surfaces to be experienced in whatever weather conditions prevail. Each camp day will include approximately six hours of driving and instructed observation time.

Experienced AAS staff and volunteers will be on hand to address the “adaptive” needs of camp participants. Adaptive Moto X two-time Gold Medalist and accomplished racecar driver Chris Ridgway, a single below knee amputee, will be on hand to address the special needs of an adaptive race car driver.

On Day 2, one camp participant will be selected (by a to-be-determined method) to be awarded transportation to, and a full access pass for, the 2011 ESPN X Games 17 where he/she will have the opportunity to meet top rally drivers.

A long-range “Stay on Track” goal is to provide sanctioned, recognized rally racing opportunities for adaptive drivers. “Our down-the-road vision,” Gale said, “is adaptive divisions within regional Global RallyCross Championships and X Games Rally contests.”

For additional information, contact Bruce Cleland of DirtFish Rally School at 425-577-2616 or AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at 619-770-0240.

Check out Shaun White getting down and dirty at Dirtfish with BFGoodrich! Find more videos of Shaun at Dirtfish Rally School at http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/shaunwhite/.

Shoe City Invitational at the ESPN Summer X Games 17 by AAS

2011-06-18T18:25:00.000-07:00

July 31, 2011, will be a big day at the Summer XGames for adaptive skaters.

Adaptive Action Sports – with support from Shoe City -- will host a morning learn-to-ride clinic (9-10 a.m.) followed by an invitation-only skate competition from 11 a.m. to noon. A 30-minute practice session will precede the competition. The events will take place in downtown Los Angeles at the official X Games interactive skate park in the X Games village.

The morning clinic and afternoon events, called The AAS Vet X Experience, will be open to permanently disabled youth and veterans, particularly those living in the Los Angeles area. Oscar Loreto, Director of the new LA Skateboard Sector for AAS, will direct the coaching program. Basic level skills will be offered for first-time skaters and practiced riders will receive assistance in improving their current techniques. (See Camp Woodward: Steven and Oscar “No Handicap Here” on Fuel TV to see Oscar’s coaching in action.)

Additional AAS staff and athletes, including below-the-knee amputee and skateboard champion Evan Strong, will be available to help assure that clinic participants receive individual attention and support.

Protec will provide protective gear (helmets and pads) for the session and skateboards will be provided by Element. Passes to attend the day’s X Games events will be awarded to veterans, who register for and participate in the clinic. The participants will also have the opportunity to meet several X Games pro athletes and will be provided lunch.

The Competition will feature 10 to 12 adaptive skateboarders, invited by Adaptive Action Sports. Guest judges will score the event and a purse of $2500 will be awarded by Shoe City to the rider with the highest overall score.

The Shoe City AAS competition will be the third in a summer adaptive skateboard series sponsored by Shoe City in 2011. The preceding competitions will be held on June 25 by Life Rolls On at the Venice Skate Park in Venice Beach, CA, and by Extremity Games on June 24-25 at Texas Ski Ranch, San Antonio, TX.

For more information on the Shoe City/AAS events, contact AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale at Daniel@adacs.org or AAS LA Skate Sector Director Oscar Loreto at Oscar@adacs.org.

Aaron Fotheringham at the AAS Adaptive Skate Jam during Summer X 16

Mike Rodgers from Grind for Life at X Games 16

Kurt Yeager at X 16

Oscar Loreto "Already Been Done" article by Robert Brink

2011-06-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

Robert Brink interviews Adaptive Action Sports L.A. Skateboard Sector Director and Athlete, Oscar Loreto, who lets us in for a closer look at his skateboard experience.

Click here to read now!

Thanks to "Monster" Mike Shultz for attending our Vets in Action Snowboard Camp!

2011-05-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

Mike Shultz, two time X Games Gold Medalist, a single above knee amputee who has manufactured his own knee attended the AAS Vets in Action Learn to Ride and Race Camp held in Copper Mountain Colorado. Shultz brought his knee with him to be tested by the wounded veterans at the camp.

Keith Deutsch who tested the knee while in Copper said "This knee changes everything for me! So awesome!" Deutsch would win a gold medal later that week while wearing the BioDapt Knee as Shultz named it. Visit the BioDapt facebook page for more info or email Mike at monstermike@brainnerd.net. Also visit Mikes personal page here at Moto Knee.

Thanks for coming out and supporting our troops and AAS programming Mike!

Hope to see you again next year!

Drastic Changes at Summer X Games

2011-05-01T16:55:00.000-07:00

ESPN is making big changes at Summer XGames…

Although no press release has been published by ESPN, it is official:

Moto Super X has been dropped from the X Games program for Summer 2011. This, unfortunately, means that the X Game’s “Adaptive” Moto Super X division has also been tabled. The decision is due to budget constraints within the X Games franchise. For the same reason, the Adaptive Skateboard Jam has also been cut.

Daniel Gale, AAS Director and official Sport Organizer for all Summer XGames “Adaptive” programming, notes that, at this time, he still hopes that the 2^nd annual Adaptive Snowboarder X will return to the Winter X Games at Aspen, Colorado, in 2012.

He adds that “Adaptive Action Sports will continue to work with ESPN and the X Games to develop new and exciting programs within the current X Games program format. In the meantime, we will be at the AAS Booth in the Team ESPN tent in the Summer X Games Village. Please plan to visit!”

AAS continues to officially support the Extremity Games’ adaptive motocross race. (For information on the Extremity Games, visit www.extremitygames.com)

To keep Adaptive Moto X momentum going, AAS proposes forming a coalition of individuals and organizations interested in developing an adaptive motocross series. “We all have contributed,” says Gale, “in creating a new sport and that sport deserves a permanent home.”

If you are interested in being a part of the “Adaptive Motocross Coalition” or have additional questions regarding the X Games events, please contact Daniel Gale via email at daniel@adacs.org.

Amy Purdy on the Dr. Drew Show with Niki Sixx

2011-04-28T17:13:00.000-07:00

AAS Co-Founder Amy Purdy on the Dr. Drew Show!

Check out Amy on the Dr. Drew Show tonight with Nikki Sixx. Niki is being interviewed about his recent book release in which Amy is a subject. She'll be on at 6pm, 9pm and midnight tonight, 4/28/2011. Click here for more info on HLN.

Visit www.adacs.org for more information on Adaptive Action Sports.

Para-Snowboarding World Cup in Canada and Veterans Learn to Ride and Race! Read more soon!

2011-04-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

Fresh off of two back-to-back Para-Snowboarding events; our second Veterans in Action Learn to Ride and Race Camp and the Canadian Para-Snowboard World Cup, the AAS crew is reeling from success.

The "Veterans in Action" Learn to Ride and Race Camp coincided with the USASA Nationals and brought out 12 total adaptive athletes to improve their race skills. Eight of the participants were wounded vets from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. Among the vet campers, Keith Deutsch, Christopher Bain and Travis Krebs competed in the adaptive divisions boardercross race. This made history by being the first ever adaptive "veteran only" race field with Deutsch placing first, Bain second and Krebs third.

Please check back soon for more info on our Veterans in Action Learn to Ride and Race Camp.

The Canadian Snowboard World Cups were mountains of fun! Thanks goes out to our Canadian hosts, The Canadian Snowboard Federation and Candice Drouin, for creating such a successful event. The course proved to be challenging and fast. The US contingency dominated the field taking home multiple medals on both days.

AAS Co-Founder Amy Purdy put together a consistent effort and placed third in both races. AAS friend Bibian Mentel put in times fast enough rival the able bodied women, winning two back-to-back gold medals. Long time AAS friend Nicole Roundy came to race and walked away from the week with two back to back silver medals.

On the mens side Mike Shea and Keith Gabel battled for second place on the first day with Gabel barely edging out Shea. On the second day both were edged out of second place by Carl Murphy from New Zealand leaving Shea in third for the second day as well. Murphy was happy to stand on the silver medal podium the second day after having dealt with prosthetic malfunctions the first day keeping him from contention. AAS advocate Evan Strong put in the fastest mens times from both races, that would have nearly qualified him for the able bodied mens division, and has two gold medals to show for it.

Here are the final results...

RESULTS – WSF PARA-SNOWBOARD WORLD CUP RACE #1 – FRIDAY APRIL 8, 2011
MEN
1. Evan Strong (USA)
2. Keith Gabel (USA)
3. Mike Shea (USA)
WOMEN
1. Bibian Mentel (NED)
2. Nicole Purdy (USA)
3. Amy Purdy (USA)
RESULTS – WSF PARA-SNOWBOARD WORLD CUP RACE #2 – SATURDAY APRIL 9, 2011
MEN
1. Evan Strong (USA)
2. Carl Murphy (NZ)
3. Mike Shea (USA)
WOMEN
1. Bibian Mentel (NED)
2. Nicole Purdy (USA)
3. Amy Purdy (USA)

Check back soon for more pics and info from both events.

Thanks again to USASA and our Canadian hosts!!! Please check back soon for more information and more photographs from both events!

What has AAS been up to this year?

2011-03-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

Watch what we have been up to here!

AAS "Veterans in Action" Learn to Ride and Race Camp

2011-03-05T22:47:00.000-08:00

Competitive adaptive snowboarding has progressed in leaps and bounds over the past decade. With the Paralympics as an end goal, Adaptive Action Sports continues to forge the way with unique programming.

On February 24-26, 2011, with a grant from Disabled Sports USA and support from the Paralympics, AAS hosted the first annual “Veterans in Action” (AAS’ New Veteran Specific Programming) Learn to Ride and Race Pipeline Camp at Sierra at Tahoe “Snowboard” Resort. The camp, designed as one of AAS’ new Pipeline series, focused on teaching snowboard fundamentals and race techniques to wounded veterans. “A participant may enter at any skill level and work to increase his/her on-snow skill set. Each rider’s personal goals will vary but the ultimate goal perhaps, is landing a spot the US Adaptive Snowboard Team, once Para-Snowboarding is recognized as a Paralympic event” says Daniel Gale Executive Director and Co-Founder of AAS.

Six veterans and two civilians participated in AAS’ inaugural three day camp. Training culminated with the option of participating in a USASA Regional Adaptive Boarder X race, which coincided with the camp’s last day. Veterans in Action camper Tanner Kuth took third in the race. “I’m not the fastest yet, but I am ready to get after it,” single below knee amputee Tanner stated after receiving his bronze medal.

“I have no fear coming down the mountain” were Chris Bain’s words during Thursday’s practice. On Saturday, after spending snow time with single below knee amputee and AAS Advocate/Mentor Evan Strong, Chris -- who was injured by an RPG (rocket propelled grenade) -- proved himself by bringing home a Gold medal from the USASA Men’s Adaptive Division. “He’s really fast and has a great attitude towards life,” Evan said of Chris.

James Tidwell, who lives with limited mobility from an IED (improvised explosive device), was on hand to gather a silver medal crossing the finish line just behind Bain.

Gary Nolte an expert kayaker from Kentucky attended the program to try snowboarding for the first time. Not one to give up easily after incurring serious back injuries and loosing sight in one eye from small arms fire Gary pushed himself to the limit while in Tahoe. We look forward to seeing Gary again at future AAS programs.

Bethany Wolf, who was snowboarding with a spinal cord L2 through S1 fusion, looked like a natural. After spending some time with AAS Coach and Program Coordinator Chris “Kep” Koeppe, Beth was linking turns all the way down the slope.

Jasmine Perry, a single below knee amputee, attended the AAS Pipeline camp to build on the skills she learned at this year’s DSUSA Breckinridge Ski Spectacular. There, she was coached by double below knee amputee, Amy Purdy. Amy, AAS’ Co-Founder and Development Director, is currently ranked as the top Adaptive Female Snowboarder in the world. Amy worked with Jasmine on intermediate skills during the Sierra Pipeline camp.

Other instruction and coaching was provided during the camp by Sierra at Tahoe Instructor/Coach Rob Ross and Daniel Gale.

The South Lake Tahoe community chipped in to help make this first Veterans in Action camp a success with local businesses providing great support. “Tahoe’s Boutique Resort,” The Inn by the Lake, provided complimentary accommodations for all of the Veterans and AAS camp staff. Dan Mchale, owner of the Inn, said: “It was an honor to give back to those that gave so much for us.” Dan also arranged a no-cost evening for the participants and staff at Tahoe Bowl and Blue Dog Pizza. Check out www.innbythelake.com for your next Tahoe trip.

President Sean Raftree of Ski Butlers Lake Tahoe generously donated snowboards and helmets for each camper to use during the program. For information on ski and snowboard rentals in Lake Tahoe, visit www.skibutlers.com/heavenly-tahoe-ski-rentals .

Montbleu Casino and Resort invited the group to have a meal at the buffet and watch a live mixed martial arts fight in the showroom. JP and Barbra Tenney from Apres Wine Co. hosted the vets for an evening of appetizers and a sip of wine. Harrah’s Casino saved a VIP booth at their exclusive night club,Vex, for the AAS group to celebrate the last camp evening.

Additional sponsors, also deserving thanks, include Sierra at Tahoe Snowboard Resort, Coal Headwear, Udo’s Oil, Vans, Protec Helmets and the United States of America Snowboard Association.

For more information about upcoming AAS Veterans in Action programs or to learn how to help our amazing warriors return to “action,” visit www.adacs.org, email info@adacs.org or call 619-770-0240.

Click below for news articles on the Sierra at Tahoe Camp.

http://www.laketahoenews.net/2011/02/disabled-veterans-prove-their-abilities-on-sierras-slopes/

http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20110226/NEWS/110229908&parentprofile=search

Right to left; Chris Bain, James Tidwell and Tanner Kuth get poised to race!

Apre Ski Wine Co owner Barbra Tenney and Amy Purdy share a sip of wine after hours.

Coach Kep working with Gary Nolte on some fundamentals of snow sliding..

Amy Purdy, Tanner Kuth and Daniel Gale staying warm under the helmet with Oil The Machine beanies.

The Abominable Kep Dog!

Jasmine Perry, Gary Nolte and James Tidwell staging before a day of riding.

This was the real deal. The guy in the red got knocked out...

The boys got to meet the number gals from the fight!

The nerves are starting to build! I love racing!

Al Vano schooling the ranks before the gates start dropping!

AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale isn't scared to race (center "black n yellow..")! Snowboarders for snowboarders that's what we say! 3rd Place that day....

Evan Strong putting it on the line to reel em in (far right)..

Amy Purdy looking purdy coming down the mountain!

Chris Bain defying Newtons law!

Staying low is crucial!

Tanner Kuth in his competitive depute! 3rd place on the day!

Left to Right; Gary Nolte wood worker extraordinaire, Rob Ross Sierra at Tahoe/AAS Boarder X Coach, Chris Bain the Man with the Silver Tongue and Chef Evan Strong plot to take over the world!

Evan breakin a piece off!! Literally. Snapped pylon!

Beth Wolf looks shocked!

But have no fear Scott from Ultra Prosthetic is on site with his tool box!

Scott, giving Evan a hand....er foot.........whatever!

Chest of robot parts...

Tanner getting a fresh set of tires.

Tanner giving us some parting words to live by!

AAS Skaters on FUEL TV!

2011-02-22T19:16:00.000-08:00

Early this year AAS L.A. Sector Program Director and AAS Advocate Oscar Loreto and Steven Lutz spent some quality time at Camp Woodward in P.A. As featured skaters on Fuel T.V.'s award winning show "Camp Woodward" Oscar and Steven, both below knee amputees, put themselves to the test at the one of a kind skate facility. Oscar who is an accomplished skateboarder, currently sponsored by Element Skateboards, gave Steven one on one coaching and support. Click here to watch the Fuel T.V. Camp Woodward Segment!

Visit www.adacs.org for more information about Adaptive Action Sports and our amazing skateboarders including the Adaptive Skateboard Jam at the ESPN X Games.

World Record wheelchair front flip!

2011-02-14T09:14:00.000-08:00

So proud of ya Aaron! Way to show the world how to Live Beyond Limits!

Nitro Circus Live - World Record - Aaron 'Wheelz' Fotheringham Front Flip
Aaron "Wheels" Fotheringham, Wheelchair front flip, Nitro Circus front flip, nitro circus wheelchair, Aaron Fotheringham

Adaptive Action Sports brings adaptive snowboarding to the ESPN Winter X Games!

2011-02-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

Competitive adaptive snow-sports, including snowmobiling and snowboarding, have progressed in leaps and bounds over the past decade. For snowboarding, with the Paralympics as a long-range goal, the United States has helped to forge the way.

This winter at X Games 15 in Aspen Colorado, Adaptive Action Sports brought a ground breaking event to life: Adaptive Snowboarder X. Partnering with the X Games AAS invited six of the top ranked adaptive snowboarders in the world to compete in an all-out race to the bottom. Evan Strong, Mike Shea and Dan Monzo were among the competitors. They finished in first, second and third places.
Click here to read more info from the event!

Evan Strong's Winter X Games 15 Gold Medal Boardercross run!

2011-02-12T14:51:00.001-08:00

2011 FRENCH ADAPTIVE WORLD CUP

2011-02-12T12:21:00.000-08:00

On February 3rd and 4th Adaptive Snowboarders (Para-snowboarders) from seven different countries hit the slopes at Orcières 1850 to compete for Gold in back to back WSF Para-Snowboard World Cups hosted by Orcières 1850, the French Snowboard Initiative, My Snowboarding, and WSF.

Adaptive Action Sports sponsored 2 athletes to compete and both returned the favor by bringing home the Golds! Adaptive Action Sports Co-founder double leg amputee Amy Purdy brought home golds on both days of competition with single leg amputee Nicole Roundy coming in only 1 second behind her on the 2nd race day. AAS Advocate Single Leg Amputee Evan Strong won Gold both days as well with Canadian Tyler Mosher coming in just .06 seconds behind him.

Results from the Men’s Category
GOLD: Evan Strong (USA)
SILVER: Tyler Mosher (CAN)
BRONZE: Keith Gabel (USA)

Results from the Women’s Category
GOLD: Amy Purdy (USA)
SILVER: Nicole Roundy (USA)
BRONZE: Fabienne Sava Pelosse (FRA)

The Orcières 1850 2011 WSF Para-Snowboard World Cups were produced by Orcières 1850, the French Snowboard Initiative, My Snowboarding, and the WSF. This was the first stop on the WSF Para-Snowboard World Cup circuit for the 2011 season. Para-Snowboarders from around the globe will continue their race for Gold at the next scheduled WSF Para-Snowboard World Cups scheduled to take place at Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada from April 7 to 9th, 2011.

AAS In Crested Butte!

2011-01-24T18:06:00.000-08:00

All of the preparation will soon pay off! Winter X Games 15 and our historic Adaptive Snowboarder X is only two days away. Before the event kicks off AAS Development Director/Co-Founder and Athlete Amy Purdy, AAS volunteer and Veteran Matt Colvin and myself made time to travel to Crested Butte, my old stomping ground during college, for a little pregame warm up. We're staying with AAS Coach and Friend Chris "Kep" Koeppe. Today, after some work, we spent a half day riding the hill and capturing a little bit of fresh footage. Crested Butte is the best mountain in the country! Hands down! It's been to long since my last visit and opportunity to lay down some lines on the steepest lift accessible terrain in the country. We found some fresh tracks and explored the parks.

We followed up a fantastic day of snow shredding with a 16" pizza pie at the Secret Stash; so good! We may venture out for a drink or two before nodding off. I love this town from top to bottom. If you haven't been, go! It's a wonderful total experience.

Daniel Gale

Adaptive Action Sports
Executive Director/Co-Founder
ESPN X Games Sports Organizer

Stay tuned for news from Winter X Games 15.

Adaptive Snowboarder X and Adaptive Snocross @ the ESPN X Games!!

2011-01-16T12:45:00.000-08:00

Competitive adaptive snow-sports including snowmobiling and snowboarding -- or snowboarding for the disabled -- have progressed in leaps and bounds over the past decade. For adaptive snowboarding, with the Paralympics as an end goal, the United States has forged the way.
...
In 2005, Adaptive Action Sports (AAS) -- a nationally- recognized California nonprofit that creates “action sports” opportunities for disabled athletes, worked with the United States of America Snowboard Association (USASA) to create a competitive “adaptive” division within the USASA schedule. The adaptive division grew and, in 2008, USASA -- in partnership with AAS -- hosted the first-ever Adaptive World Championship of Snowboarding. This event was sanctioned by the World Snowboard Federation (WSF). It marked a turning point for the growing sport, triggering worldwide involvement and fueling a push for the Paralympics.

In 2014, in Sochi Russia, the international adaptive snowboarding community hopes to bring a new sport to the Paralympic Games: Adaptive Boardercross or “Para-Snowboarding” as it has been called. To help prepare adaptive riders (including veterans) for this goal, AAS has created a Pipeline of programs and camps. The programs/camps are intended as a pathway through which a permanently disabled snowboarder progresses from one skill level to another. Novices may become recreational snowboarders, who may become competitive racers. Some will eventually emerge onto the Paralympic scene.

Through the AAS Pipeline, campers are given snowboard instruction at their appropriate skill level. They are introduced -- and given access -- to USASA regional events. They are encouraged to participate in the annual USASA National Competition. Pipeliners may elect to compete in a sanctioned World Cup/Championship event and ultimately, with some help, they may enter the Paralympic Games.

In support of the AAS Pipeline concept and the goal of seeing Adaptive Snowboarding included in the Paralympics, ESPN X Games is partnering with AAS, to host the first Adaptive Snowboarder X at Winter X Games 15 in Aspen, Colorado, on January 30th. Being recognized by, and included in, the ESPN Winter X Games – the premiere and largest “action sports” competition in the world – will provide adaptive snowboarding a major boost in the effort for Sochi 2014. Click here to read more from the ESPN Action Sports Website:

http://sports.espn.go.com/action/snowboarding/news/story?id=5960466

Additional to the Snowboarder X AAS will also act as the Co-Sports Organizer for the 3rd Adaptive Snowcross Finals at Winter X Games 15. This exciting side by side snowmobile race will feature 6 riders including Jim Wazny a single above knee amputee. Click here to read more about Jim on the ESPN Action Sports website:

http://espn.go.com/action/xgames/blog/_/post/5930571/adaptive-medalist-wazny-enables-others

Official Athlete Invite Lists

Adaptive Snowboarder X

Evan Strong
Ian Lockey
Dan Monzo
Tyler Mosher
Mike Shea
Keith Deutsch

Adaptive Snocross Finals

Jesse Gildea
Doug Henry
Chris Heppding
Mike Schultz
Jeff Tweet
Jim Wazny

For more information about AAS and our programs please visit www.adacs.org or contact Adaptive Action Sports at info@adacs.org. For more information regarding adaptive events at the ESPN X Games please contact X Games Sport Organizer and AAS Executive Director/Co-Founder Daniel Gale at daniel@adacs.org. For media and sponsorship inquiries please contact AAS Development Director and Co-Founder Amy Purdy.

Adaptive Action Sports “Learn to Ride and Race Camps"

2011-01-16T12:18:00.000-08:00

Are you a disabled veteran? Do you have a competitive edge? Do you love snowboarding or have you always wanted to learn? This winter, AAS is offering Pipeline Learn to Ride and Race Snowboard Camps for military personnel and veterans who have been permanently disabled in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. The first of these programs will be held at Sierra at Tahoe, a world renowned snowboard destination in South Lake Tahoe, CA, from February 24th to the 26th, 2011.

AAS has provided adaptive snowboard camps since 2005, leading the way for disabled athletes everywhere. Based on our unparalleled past achievements, these 2011 camps initiate AAS’ new and exciting Pipeline concept that provides a pathway to competitive snowboarding for any level rider. The 2011 camps will provide in-depth instruction by a Certified Snowboard Instructor on a USASA-sanctioned course for two days preceding an official USASA Regional race. Experienced AAS staff and volunteers, working under the direction of the Certified Instructor, will provide coaching. AAS volunteers and USASA “Adaptive” Gold Medalists Evan Strong and Amy Purdy will be on hand to offer advice. On the third day of camp, AAS campers will compete among themselves and will be encouraged, but not required, to participate in the “adaptive” division of the coinciding USASA competition. All competitions are intended to provide fun for, and build confidence in, Pipeline campers.

AAS Learn to Ride and Race Camps 2011

Program 1:
Feb 24-26, Sierra at Tahoe Ski Resort, South Lake Tahoe (travel on 23 & 27) Boarder X

Program 2:
April 1-8, Copper Mountain Colorado, USASA Nationals

Please contact us for additional information regarding sign up and grant opportunities.

Pipeline Camps - info@adacs.org

AAS is a nonprofit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals and sponsorships. To learn more about the AAS mission, its incredible athletes, one of a kind programs and how you can help, please visit www.adacs.org or www.facebook.com/adaptiveactionsports. For general questions, please contact us at info@adacs.org or call 619-770-0240. For sponsorship or media inquiries, please contact AAS Development Director, Amy Purdy, at amy@adacs.org.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Shultz

Amy Purdy and AAS on CNN!!

2011-01-16T11:57:00.000-08:00

Our snowboard programs got a jump-start December 5-11 when Amy Purdy, Daniel Gale and Evan Strong (all volunteer AAS staff) were invited by Disabled Sports – USA to coach wounded warriors attending the DSUSA Hartford Ski Spectacular in Breckenridge, CO. It was honor to meet all of the attending veterans including Ryan Winter, Mathew Kinsey and Josh Wege who received one on one instruction by AAS staff.

Amy, a double below knee amputee herself, had the privilege of working with Josh, also a double below knee amputee. With years of riding experience under her belt and numerous insider tips she assisted Josh in exceeding his snowboarding goals for the week.

Besides helping disabled vets experience the thrill of snowboarding, AAS received an added bonus from its involvement in the Spectacular. CNN was on-site and filmed a segment on Amy (AAS Athlete, Co-Founder and Development Director). Chosen as one of CNN’s “Break Through Women,” Amy was followed for a day by a film crew as she worked with Josh and others attending the Ski Spectacular. The segment appeared on HLN: Morning Express with Robin Meade, twice a day Friday, Dec. 24 and Dec. 26. If you missed it click here:

http://mxp.blogs.cnn.com/2010/12/24/amy-purdy-adaptive-action-athlete-and-breakthrough-woman/

AAS is a charitable non-profit organization that relies on the generous support of individuals and sponsorships. To learn more about the AAS mission, its’ incredible athletes, one of a kind programs and how you can help, please visit www.adacs.org or www.facebook.com/adaptiveactionsports. For general questions please contact us at info@adacs.org or call 619-770-0240. For sponsorship or media inquiries please contact AAS Development Director, Amy Purdy, at amy@adacs.org.

End of year challenge to AAS athletes and supporters!

2010-12-19T14:00:00.000-08:00

AAS has been offered a $5,000 challenge grant. That means any dollar you donate to AAS until December 31, 2010 will be matched up $5,000.00 by one of our private donors! We challenge you to help raise the match!

This winter, AAS is offering two 3-day Pipeline Camps for military personnel and veterans who have been permanently disabled in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. The events will be held at Sierra at Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe, CA, on January 21-23 and February 24-26, 2011.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Schultz at the AAS Windells Snowboard Camp http://www.aaronschultz.com/

Although AAS has provided Adaptive Snowboard Clinics since 2005, these 2011 camps initiate AAS’ new Pipeline concept. The AAS Pipeline provides a pathway for permanently disabled individuals to develop their snowboarding skills from beginner to expert levels. Disabled individuals can enter the Pipeline at any level. Continuity is the keystone. Outcomes will include increased availability of exciting snowboarding experiences. The results will be enjoyment, increased healthy life styles and increased expectations for the potential of disabled individuals.

Funds raised will be used to extend our exciting new 2011 Pipeline Learn to Ride and Race Snowboard Camps for Wounded Warriors to include a chance for partici-pants to compete in the USASA Nationals in March. Funds will also be used to expand the Pipeline to include non-military disabled snowboarders.

(Adaptive Snowboard Coaches at DSUSA Ski Spectacular including AAS’ Evan, Amy and Dan)

Our snowboard programs got a jump-start December 5-11 when Dan, Amy and Evan (all volunteer AAS staff) were invited by Disabled Sports – USA to coach wounded warriors attending the DSUSA Hartford Ski Spectacular in Breckenridge, CO. Besides helping disabled vets experience the thrill of snowboarding, AAS received an added bonus from its involvement in the Spectacular. CNN was on-site and filmed a segment on AAS Co-Founder Amy Purdy. The segment will appear on CNN’s series “Breakthrough Women” twice a day on December 24 and 26.

Any amount you can contribute will be helpful. We will send a receipt to you which will make your donation tax-deductible, if appropriate.

Donate at www.adaptiveactionsports.blogspot.com. Also visit www.adacs.org.

STUDIO 21 TATTOO TO HOST SAILOR JERRY CLASSIC TATTOO TRIBUTE + ART SHOW + FUNDRAISER FOR AAS

2010-11-16T11:56:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, November 21 from 5 – 9 p.m., Studio 21 Tattoo will host a throw-back event honoring classic tattoo artist, Sailor Jerry. This event is free and open to the public.

At the tribute, guests are invited to check-out original takes on Sailor Jerry art pieces created by local and national tattoo artists; a classic car show and a mock drive-in movie theatre style viewing of Hori Smoku, a documentary of a staple in the tattoo industry, the original madd man himself, Sailor Jerry.

Jerry Sailor’s Rum will be on hand to offer tastings in an array of different cocktails and shots for the attendees, along with some wild giveaways and raffle prizes from Studio 21 Tattoo Gallery, Sailor Jerry Rum and Element Skateboards. A percentage of proceeds will be donated to Adaptive Action Sports (AAS), a non-profit co-founded by Las Vegas native Amy Purdy.

AAS creates action sports opportunities through camps, events and clinics for individuals living with permanent physical disabilities. AAS is currently working hard to create a new sport in the Paralympics; Snowboarding. For more information on AAS and to find out how you can help please visit www.adacs.org.

The event will kick off the month-long art display that locals can view at Studio 21 Tattoo Gallery, Inc, 7 days a week from November 21 – December 21 from 12 – 9 p.m. For more information regarding the event or about Studio 21 Tattoo, please contact owner Austin Spencer at 702-521-4695 or by email at studio21tattoo@earthlink.net.

Extreme Moms go "Airborn for Adaptive Action Sports!"

2010-10-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

The Extreme Moms organization ( www.extrememoms.org) out of Milwaukee are going Airborne for Adaptive Action Sports!

That's right on November 7th 2010 this amazing group headed up by Extreme Mom Sarah Minella will be skydiving to raise funds and awareness of Adaptive Action Sports! If you would like to make a donation towards this cause please click on the donate button below! If you would like to watch video of their amazing jump on this Fox 6 Morning show click on the link below!
http://www.fox6now.com/witi-extreme-moms-skydive-for-chari-110810,0,4464632.story

AAS Is an official 501c3 organization as recognized by the Federal Government. Visit www.irs.gov for details. For additional information regarding AAS, please contact us at info@adacs.org or call 619-770-0240

WInter is Coming

2010-09-19T12:17:00.000-07:00

Adaptive Action Sports (AAS) is continuing to work hard towards the international goal of creating a new sport for the 2014 Paralympic Games in Sochi, Russia: parasnowboarding! Since 2005, AAS' unique and original programs have been helping to pave the way for significant progression in the adaptive snowboard community and our collective Paralympic goal. From the first World Championship event ever, sanctioned by the WSF in 2008, to our world class boardercross camps at Sierra at Tahoe ski resort in Lake Tahoe, we are making great strides. Make sure to stay tuned to the AAS website for updates on our winter programs at www.adacs.org and visit the "Support AAS" page to donate to our cause. We are excited to announce that the US Paralympic Committee has endorsed and agreed to help AAS with our bid for a World Cup/Championship event at USASA Nationals this season. Cross your fingers that we get approval to host! There are grants available! To those interested in attending any of our events please contact us at info@adacs.org for information on grant opportunities. We look forward to a wonderful winter season and hope to see everyone soon.

THANK YOU AND IMAGES FROM THE AAS ADAPTIVE EVENTS AT THE ESPN X GAMES 2010!

2010-08-13T17:56:00.000-07:00

ADAPTIVE ACTION SPORTS once again organized the Adaptive Super X and Superpark Jam at the ESPN SUMMER X GAMES! The Skaters, Moto X and BMX riders were amazing both riding in front of a packed house! During the Adaptive SkateJam a Backflip was landed! In the Adaptive Super X "Monster" Mike Shultz and Sempie Eramus both took home gold in the amputee and para classes. We are so proud of everyone involved, how hard they trained and how great they all rode! We also cannot thank our staff and volunteers enough! Thank you to Kep and Matt for your work and support! To our intern and booth manager Devin who kep the AAS booth going and donations flowing all week and to all of the booth and on dirt volunteers! Thank you to our Sponsors who help us make this event happen, Extremity Games Network, Challenged Athletes Foundation, Element Skateboards and VANS... We couldn't do this without you!!! ~ AMY and DANIEL

Join Us for the XGames 16 Adaptive Skatejam! Aug 1

2010-07-22T20:06:00.000-07:00

Thanks to AAS Advocate we now have this amazng video of the AAS skatejam! Dates and times for this year are listed at the end of the video! Check it out!!! We want as many spectators as we can get for this amazing event! Come support adaptive skateboarding!

Skatepark Construction at X

2010-07-14T16:37:00.000-07:00

It's crazy how busy I am getting ready for Summer X Games. Having a ball though! Click here to check out a link to Transworld Skateboarding for a sneak peek at the construction of the skatepark thus far.

Summer X Games

2010-07-08T16:49:00.000-07:00

Summer X is right around the corner! We are neck deep in the planning of both Adaptive Moto X and the Adaptive Skateboard Jam. Three years ago AAS created an awesome partnership with the ESPN X Games to bring both sports to the people. Both have grown ten fold in a few short years and the events are getting bigger and better.

If your in the L.A. area during the X Games, July 29th to Aug 1st, come check out these one of a kind events!

Come watch Chris Ridgway go for a three-peat at the Adaptive Moto X race which will take place on Thursday the 29th at 3:30 p.m. The race will be rebroadcast Friday the 30th between Skateboard Park Elimination and BMX Freestyle Street from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. on ESPN and ESPN 3.com.

The Adaptive Skateboard Jam will take place on August 1st at 12:00 noon. For more information on these and other X Games events review our website, www.adacs.org, or visit http://espn.go.com/action/.

The L.A. Coliseum course is looking beyond awesome and the Skatepark is an incredible design of wood and concrete. Both courses will prove to be an incredible proving ground for all of the amazing athletes in attendance.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions at info@adacs.org.

See you there!

Daniel Gale
ESPN X Games Sports Organizer

AAS at the EXTREMITY GAMES 5

2010-06-24T12:05:00.001-07:00

Extremity Games was so fun this year! Much smaller then the years before but much more intimate. This years event was at a new venue called the Texas Ski Ranch. It is the best venue by far, everything is in one spot and there is a great breeze that blows through, so although its 100 degrees outside, it doesn't feel like it! Make sure to keep up on the AAS and Extremity website for information about EX 6! Hope to see you there!

Make new friends in Texas.

Love these guys! Alex and AAS Advocate and Element Skater Oscar Loreto in the New Element inspired AAS Shirts!

Can't go wrong with pink and tie dyed ductape!

Monster Mikes Moto X and now Wakeboard Leg! So badass, wish mine looked this cool!

We are learning that not only does he kill it in Moto X but in just about everything else!

The perfect Hi Five! Oscar has 1 and Brandon has 4!!

Billy one armed and upside down! Amazing!

AAS Advocate Oscar Loreto! Check him out Representing Element Skateboards and AAS on the FUEL TV reality show Camp Woodward!

This newbie Stephan killed it! Nice footwork man, won him a gold medal!

AAS took over running the wakeboard clinic. New AAS advocate Brandon is the best teacher, he can get anyone up on a board and pulling tricks in no time!

AAS Booth! Thanks Element for all your support!

The man behind the scenes AAS Executive Director Daniel Gale... thanks for all your hard work!

AAS Directors Amy and Daniel

Doesn't get cuter then this! Next year he will be on boards with us, right Dad?

KABB Fox San Antonio :: Top Stories

WWW.ADACS.ORG
WWW.EXTREMITYGAMES.COM

$25 donation for a "Live Beyond Limits" shirt!

2010-06-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

Grab one of these super soft AAS skate shirts before they go out of stock! Inspired by an Element Skateboards shirt the Live Beyond Limits shirt has major style and is going to be the most soft and cozy shirt you own! All proceeds raised from this shirt will go directly into the Adaptive Action Sports Summer skateboard, Moto X and wakeboard programs that help get youth and young adults with physical disabilities involved in action sports! Shop for a good cause!
Thank you to our shirt sponsors Element Skateboards and HighDefinition printing!

Click below to make your $25 donation and recieve a Live Beyond Limits skate shirt. They are going fast and sizes are limited!

LIVE BEYOND LIMITS SHIRTS ARE CURRENTLY ON BACK ORDER! PLEASE EMAIL US IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE ON THE LIST TO RECIEVE A SHIRT WHEN THEY COME IN! amy@adacs.org

X Games Adventure Begins.......Day 1, We go...

2009-08-07T13:00:00.000-07:00

After months of planning the day finally arrived to head out of Tahoe to L.A. for X Games 15. With the Super X Adaptive Finals and the Adaptive Skateboard Park Jam only days away I must have seemed like I escaped from the psych ward while I was loading the truck; mumbling bag sizes, drving routes, and my over all check list outloud as I wandered back and forth from our garage. The packing puzzle was eventually completed in the back of Tundra and signified that it was time to roll.

Amy and I said our good byes to our sweet dog, Roxy, and started the long drive to Los Angeles. The further south we drove the hotter it got and the faster the traffic seemed to flow; hotter, faster, hotter, faster. I love the mountains but couldn't wait for the X Games.

On our way down to L.A. we stopped through Fresno to pick up AAS Advocate Buddy Elias. Buddy is a single above knee amputee and all around amazing athlete. He skates and snowboards. After a quick visit with his family we stuffed Buddy in the back of the truck and got back on the road.

With only 4 hours of driving left to L.A. there was nothing in our way. We pushed straight thru to the Custom Hotel. "Oh Custom Hotel let me count the ways.....". What a crazy hotel! It's worth a stop if your looking for a hotel near LAX Airport. At least stop in for a drink at Hopsctoch Pool Bar. Any way we were greeted by a familiar family in the lobby pictured to the right. Their a bit sheepish but very nice.....

The next morning we added Oscar Loreto and Rob Nelson to our list as we got preped for a day of skating and visits to Vans and Element.

Welcome!

2009-05-22T22:07:00.001-07:00

Hello Blog World! Welcome to the New Adaptive Action Sports blog, where you will find updated information on News, Events and everything "adaptive" Action Sports!