HISTORY OF CADS

Our History...

The Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing was formed in 1976 to assist persons with a disability to enjoy the sport of skiing, and by skiing improve their everyday lifestyle. Skiing is an individual activity and so everyone can participate and learn how to ski.

Over the years skiing has proven itself to be a ?user friendly? sport for persons with physical or intellectual disabilities. Downhill Skiing (Alpine) is accessible to persons with hearing and visual impairments, amputees, paraplegics, quadriplegics, as well as those experiencing poor coordination / balance / mobility loss due to a brain injury. With certified instructors and qualified volunteers and modifications to equipment even those with multiple disabilities can enjoy skiing. Techniques and equipment have been developed such that even those with zero mobility can participate.

For some, skiing opens the doors to the possibility of having fun, for others it provides a special camaraderie, not otherwise possible or available. For still others, it is a return to living, or a spur to go on and tackle the unknown. For yet others, it is a chance to ski as a family unit.

The Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing (CADS) is dedicated to promoting, through its Provincial and Territorial divisions, the physical and mental well being of persons with disabilities through healthy recreation and competition.

The ski program in Durham Region was formed in 1995 and named D.A.S.A. (Durham Alternative Ski Association). In 2002 we have taken on the name of CADS DURHAM and are recognized members of Provincial and National Levels of CADS.