Why were the changes so important?
According to statistics recorded by Australia's six Spinal Units we have more than 9000 residents over the age of 15 with Persisting Spinal Cord Injuries (PSCI). These numbers do not include those younger than 15 as their treatment is usually undertaken in Paediatric Units and therefore not recorded in these figures.
- The most prevalent age group for PSCI is 15 -24 year olds
- 73% are caused through trauma
- 80% are males
- An average of 3.5 months is spent in recovery before going home
- 40% never return to the workforce
So why is it important?
The ability to be competitive on a dartboard is not limited by the loss of lower body mobility and:
- Darts is a physically safe and challenging sport with a huge potential for participation at all ages
- Darts is a fun and social sport where the choice can be made to practice or play at home, join a local league, or attend local events.practically every weekend of the year
- Is an all-weather sport
- Has a huge variety of skill development exercises that maintains the challenge and interest
- Costs very little in equipment
- Provides for fun social interaction and promotes emotional and physical wellbeing
Carol Forwood - One of Asia Pacific's highest ranked Lady Dart Player
"I have long been a supporter of opening our sport to those with disability. I will certainly be promoting the campaign during my travels."
"Dr Darts"
Patrick Chaplin PhD
UK darts historian, author and international darts journalist
“I truly admire the work you are doing for those with disability. I will promote your work whenever and wherever I can.”
Neil Gardner
Five times Mr Australia,
International Competitor, Personal Trainer and Fitness Guru
"I have been so inspired by the achievements of those with disability over the years, even in bodybuilding. I support your campaign fully. I know the benefits are priceless.”
Darts History made in Gosford
10am on the 23rd June 2010 will be recounted in the history books of darts as the day the true spirit of the game was demonstrated by delegates from around Australia in Gosford NSW. It will forever be remembered as the time when the world's most popular sport became the most accessible for those with disability in Australia.
Support for the Wildfire 137 dart frame has come from some of Australia's highest ranked players. Carol Forwood WDF's No. 10 and Simon Whitlock PDC's No. 4 are both Ambassadors for the unique equipment to encourage those with disability into darts.
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Welcome to Wheelchair Darts Australia - home of the unique Wildfire 137 dart frame
The Satellite
Latest news:
Puma extends a hand to those with disability
Puma Dart Products Ltd will soon be including wheelchair dart board set-up instructions in their board packaging and flyers. Puma have thrown their support behind the 2010 Darts Australia ruling of a fair and equivalent lower dart board height for use by wheelchair players.
This thrilling development takes the campaign for international acceptance one giant step closer.
ABC Radio interview 22/12/11
