Sep 25, 2012
[Sept. 25, 2012] CHICAGO – Voting is now open for the 2012 USAA Athletic Inspiration Award, Intersport announced today. The USAA Athletic Inspiration Award is wholly determined by fan voting and recognizes individuals with military ties who have overcome monumental challenges to achieve greatness in the world of sports. The winner will be announced on a one-hour “Courage in Sports” special airing at 5 p.m. ET Nov. 11 on CBS.
Four remarkable individuals have been selected to participate in the competition. From now until Oct. 8 fans may vote once per day and share their vote with friends at www.facebook.com/USAA. The nominees for the 2012 USAA Athletic Inspiration Award are:
Captain Ivan Castro was left completely blind after an attack in Iraq and is currently an officer in the U.S. Army. Castro is also an avid runner and has completed more than 24 marathons since 2007.
Lisa Hallett founded Wear Blue: Run to Remember after her husband, John, was killed while serving in Afghanistan. Wear Blue provides a positive and supportive outlet for spouses and others to cope with the stresses of military life.
Daniel Rodriguez served in Iraq and Afghanistan directly after high school following his father’s death. After battling post-traumatic stress syndrome upon his return, Daniel is now a member of the Clemson University football team.
Melissa Stockwell lost her left leg during combat in Iraq. She earned a spot on the U.S. Paralympic Team in 2008 as a swimmer. Melissa is now a two-time world and three-time national champion in the paratriathlon.
To show your support for any of the four nominees in the 2012 USAA Athletic Inspiration Award, visit: www.facebook.com/USAA.
For questions about “Courage in Sports,” contact Nick Owen at nowen@intersportnet.com or 312-467-2826.