Why is the Wheelathon held? Each year over 100 British Columbians incur a spinal cord injury, the majority of traumatic injuries occurring among males ages 18 to 24. Rehabilitation is a long, hard journey requiring strong support both financially and emotionally. Both the BC Wheelchair Sports Association and the BC Paraplegic Association assist people with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities in achieving independence, self-reliance and community participation. It is because of these common goals that the two organizations have joined together to host the BC Wheelathon Relay. BC Wheelchair Sports is the primary service provider of sports programs to people with physical disabilities providing equipment, developmental programs, competitive opportunities, coaching education, and recruitment programs to wheelchair athletes throughout the province. By providing opportunities for participation in recreation and sport throughout British Columbia, BC Wheelchair Sports programs and service delivery has a direct, positive impact on the rehabilitation process and quality of life of its disabled athletes. Funds raised on behalf of the BC Wheelchair Sports Association support programs and services for wheelchair athletes including equipment, clinics, competitions, junior sport camps and athlete and coach development. Each year, the BC Paraplegic Association helps thousands of people overcome the devastating effects of their injury through a variety of programs. The BC Paraplegic Association exists because people with spinal cord injuries want to rejoin their families and communities, want to regain independence, and want to resume their education and careers. Funds raised on behalf of the BC Paraplegic Association support programs and services including peer support, rehabilitation counselling, employment counselling and community advocacy.