Casa Colina’s adaptive sports camp returns to Long Beach, Glendora

Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare is bringing back its adaptive sports and recreation camp, “Beat the Heat,” for the second consecutive year. Building on the success of last year’s relaunch, this year’s event promises an even better experience for individuals with disabilities seeking adventure, camaraderie, and fun. This unique camp is tailored specifically for individuals over the age of 14 with disabilities who are eager to experience adaptive sports and recreation in a competitive and inclusive environment.

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

Beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024, Beat the Heat will feature a 15-20-minute Para Table Tennis Exhibition match between Ari Arratia, a former national team member, and Jerry Castro. At noon, Dean Maccabe, gold medal winner in Wheelchair Rugby at the 2000 Sydney Paralympics, Olympic torchbearer for the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, and former Casa Colina Hospital patient, will speak to camp participants about his experiences as an athlete and mentor.

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

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

Camp activities will be facilitated by trained professionals, including Casa Colina staff, volunteers, athletes, coaches, and professional outfitters. Adaptive equipment will be available to accommodate a wide range of abilities.

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