(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The time for competition in Colorado Springs is now. For the first time in seven years, the Warrior Games are back in Southern Colorado.
Originally hosted in Colorado Springs for its first five years, the Warrior Games showcase the physical skills and mental perseverance of wounded, ill, and injured service members on their journey to healing.
“So far the experience has been amazing. It’s been awesome to watch all these athletes,” said Ken Acfalle, a former Marine.
Aysia Acfalle, a 1st Sgt. in the Marine Corps and Ken’s daughter, is excited to be here and compete.
“There’s just a lot of great athletes out here and you want to do your best,” Acfalle said. “You want to represent your institution in the best way you can.”
Her father, who competed in the Warrior Games 45 years ago when he served in the Marines, is now getting a chance to watch his daughter do the same.
“It’s the best thing that a father could probably ever be a part of,” Ken said. “It’s just watching my daughter compete there.”
For a full schedule of events in the Warrior Games, click here.
Aysia made her first event on Friday a memorable one by taking first in her powerlifting division. But she is far from finished.
“I’ll be throwing shot for field, and then doing seated volleyball and wheelchair rugby,” Aysia said.
She will be facing off against 200 other military service members who compete to win and enjoy their journey of healing from their experience serving our country.
“I think the Warrior Games for me has been a really humbling point for me, learning about all the different injuries and illnesses that different competitors have and really seeing how they’ve overcome it and adapted to it and continue to have the confidence to compete has been the best part of the Warrior Games so far,” Aysia said.
Because for those competing, they understand life isn’t measured in the wins and losses, but in the moments spent living and doing things they enjoy with people they love.
“I think all I want from her is the respect of being around the other service members and knowing that we’re all on the same team,” Ken said.
The games run through July 26.
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