Ever since the first Valor Games in 2011, Army veteran Hattie Tyson has made it her goal to attend whenever possible.
“I’ve missed a few but I’m doing my best to make it because it’s so encouraging and gives some of the veterans some hope,” Tyson said.
The sporting event, organized locally by the Chicago Park District, caters to disabled veterans and wounded, ill or injured service members.
Events included rowing, archery and cycling, and on Thursday, 85 competitors gathered at McKinley Park for table tennis and biathlon, a combination of cross-country skiing and target shooting.
US Navy veteran Steve Thompson, 72, competes in the biathlon during the 2022 Valor Games Midwest at McKinley Park on Thursday.
Steve Thompson attended his first Valor Games this year. It was recommended to him by a park district program director, and he said his first year had been a wonderful experience.
“I would recommend any veteran to come and attend because it’s a great way to connect with other veterans,” Thompson said.
Army veteran Anthony Powell said the Valor Games were important because they keep him active.
“I can also do things that I’ve never tried before,” Powell said. “I’ve never played table tennis, but today I tried.”
The camaraderie is important, as is the competition from legally blind Navy veteran Ajay Mohammed.
Like Thompson, these were Muhammad’s first games of bravery.
“I’ve forgotten what it’s like to be among other veterans competing in these sports and sharing stories,” Mohammed said. “I’m so glad there’s an event like this for us veterans.”
Cecily Roland, an Air Force veteran, was at her second Valor Games. She competed in all sports and enjoyed reconnecting with people she met last year.
Tyson is already looking forward to next year, which she expects to be bigger and better than ever.
“I’m hoping to compete next year because it keeps me going,” Tyson said. “It’s also something that I think everyone needs because they can get some enjoyment out of it.”
Ajay Mohammed, 41, of Mukwonago, Wisconsin, a US Navy veteran who is blind, competes in biathlon at the 2022 Valor Games Midwest at McKinley Park on Thursday.