From July 12-18, 2024, the city of Hoover hosted The Hartford Nationals, which is an annual competition for athletes with physical, visual or intellectual disabilities. Conducted by Move United, this year marks the 67th championship competition. Here, Kelly Peoples, events manager for the city of Hoover, details her gratitude for being able to host such a special event.
What does it mean for the city of Hoover to host The Hartford Nationals and spotlight these athletes on a national scale?
The city of Hoover was honored to host The Hartford Nationals conducted by Move United in 2023 and 2024. The power of sport shows what is possible for people with disabilities, while also fueling conversations of what inclusion looks like. Approximately 400 athletes from 35 different states came to Hoover to compete in their respective sports. We saw a boost in economic impact due to these athletes, families and coaches being in town, but working with them and cheering them on all week was priceless.
How long has the city of Hoover partnered with Move United, and how did this partnership come to be?
Move United chooses a different city every two years. Before Hoover, they were in Denver for two years. They announced at this year’s closing ceremony that they are going to Grand Rapids, Michigan, for 2025 and 2026. Our team recruited them to come here, and we hope they will be back in the future.
Of all the events featured, which stood out to you the most?
While watching the athletes compete was fun and exciting, I think the opening ceremony was my favorite event. The Parade of Athletes—each state comes in alphabetical order—was special. Seeing hundreds of athletes with physical disabilities coming in together and cheering for each other was amazing. Most of these athletes only see each other at nationals, so it’s fun to watch them reconnect.
How has watching these athletes compete inspired you?
Seeing any person reach their goal is special to me. Many of these athletes have lived with their disabilities for a long time and have learned to overcome obstacles. Their sport makes them more determined, more powerful, more themselves.
What is the best part about your job in terms of planning events such as these that mean so much to the community?
I hope that having events such as The Hartford Nationals in Hoover will bring our community together, foster fellowship between patrons and show a world where everyone is included.
To learn more information about Move United and The Hartford Nationals, visit moveunitedsport.org/events/nationals.
