2015 Army Trials taking place at Fort Bliss

The second Army Trials competition is taking place right here at Fort Bliss.

The competition showcases the spirit of wounded, ill and injured soldiers and veterans. It will determine who will represent the U.S. Army at the Department of Defense Warrior Games 2015 in June at the Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia.

Sunday morning ABC-7 caught the cycling competition action on post.

“It’s definitely a spiritual uplifting and enlightenment,” athlete Joshua Palmer said. “It’s a high that not only you get from riding and working those endorphins and building yourself up but cheering your fellow teammate on and pushing them to beat each other.”

During the inaugural Army Trials last year, more than 100 soldiers and veterans from across the nation competed at the U.S, Military Academy in West Point, New York.

About 80 athletes are here competing in paralympic-type events including: archery, cycling, swimming, air rifle shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field and wheelchair basketball. Participants include people with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, visual impairments, serious illnesses and amputations.

Spectators are welcome at the trials to cheer, root and motivate the Army warriors as they train and compete.

The remaining schedule is as follows, according to the Fort Bliss Bugle:

Monday – Shooting Competition, Ronald D. Milam Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 2499 Cassidy Road, West Fort Bliss, 9 a.m.;

Seated Volleyball Assessment, Soto PFC, 6 p.m.

Tuesday – Archery Competition, Milam PFC, 9 a.m.;

Wheelchair Basketball Assessment, Soto PFC, 6 p.m.

Wednesday – Track and Field Event and Finals, Mitchell W. Stout Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 2930 Cassidy Road, West Fort Bliss, 9 a.m.;

Seated Volleyball Assessment, Soto PFC, 6 p.m.

Thursday – Swimming Competition, Aquatics Training Center, 20733 Constitution Ave., East Fort Bliss, 9 a.m.

For more information, visit https://www.bliss.army.mil/.