Gallery: Paracanoeing Improves Stability, Balance in Wounded Athletes

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    *Megan Blunk hits the water of Gig Harbor, Washington, for a little training with Josh Wold. Canoeing has brought her the same joy she felt running and playing soccer.* Photo: Matt Mills McKnight/Wired
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    *Alan Anderson is the sprint canoe and paracanoe coach at the Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Club. The club has received a $25,000 grant to train athletes for the sport, which makes its inaugural Paralympic appearance in 2016.* Photo: Matt Mills McKnight/Wired
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    *Anderson offers pointers to Blunk during a workout at Gig Harbor.* Photo: Matt Mills McKnight/Wired
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    *Blunk says she felt calm yet excited the first time she got on the water and "was right away having fun."* Photo: Matt Mills McKnight/Wired
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    *Joshua Wold, who lost his right foot in Iraq, says canoeing is excellent rehab because it strengthens the core and improves balance, while also improving confidence. It's also a lot of fun. "I was hooked after one trip," he said.* Photo: Matt Mills McKnight/Wired