PHOENIX — All eyes will be on the Valley of the Sun as athletes with disabilities and other Paralympic hopefuls compete in the Desert Challenge Games.
More than 400 athletes from 17 countries will make their way to the event hosted by Arizona Disabled Sports with hopes to medal and possibly set new records.
Held May 22-26 in the Phoenix-metro area, the games will host events at Arizona State University's Joe Selleh Track, Kino Aquatic Center, Broadway Recreation Center and the Papago Archery Range.
Those looking to watch the competition in person can attend the events free of charge. Here's a breakdown of the event schedule:
Wednesday, May 22
Swim Events - 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | Kino Aquatic Center
Thursday, May 23
Air Rifle and Pistol Events - 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | Broadway Recreation Center
Friday, May 24
Track and Field Events - 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | ASU Joe Selleh Track and Field
Welcome Ceremony - 4:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | ASU Joe Selleh Track and Field
Track and Field Events - 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | ASU Joe Selleh Track and Field
Saturday, May 25
Track and Field Events - 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | ASU Joe Selleh Track and Field
Track and Field Events - 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | ASU Joe Selleh Track and Field
Sunday, May 26
Archery Events - Adults (21+) - 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Papago Park Archery Range
Archery Events - Juniors (6-20) - 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Papago Park Archery Range
For a complete schedule of each event and heat sheets, visit the website's event page.
AZDS is still looking for volunteers to assist with various activities at the events. If you're interested in helping out, you can see a list of the open volunteer shifts on the Desert Challenge Games website.