Last weekend the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) capped off a multi-day fundraising effort that helped the organization raise $3.5 million “to help increase opportunities for people with physical challenges in sports and physical fitness.”
Included in the fundraising events was a seven-day California coastal ride that raised over $2.2 million, the San Diego Triathlon Challenge that raised $1.3 million and the stationary cyclethon that raised $70,000. Those three events featured nearly 1,000 supporters who raised funds. The San Diego Triathlon Challenge featured “challenged athletes competing side-by-side with able-bodied athletes and celebrates the power of sport to transform lives, build community and change perceptions of what people with permanent physical disabilities can accomplish.”
The CAF was founded in 1994 and since then “more than $134 million has been raised and over 35,000 funding requests from people with physical challenges … have been satisfied,” according to a release from the foundation. “Additionally, CAF’s outreach efforts impact another 60,000 individuals each year. Whether it’s a $2,500 grant for a handcycle, helping underwrite a carbon fiber running foot not covered by insurance, or arranging enthusiastic encouragement from a mentor who has triumphed over a similar challenge, CAF’s mission is clear: give opportunities and support to those with the desire to live active, athletic lifestyles. To learn more, visit https://www.challengedathletes.org/“
Here are photos from the weekend courtesy of CAF:
