In the world of endurance sports, few athletes have broken more barriers—or inspired more people—than Sarah Reinertsen. A former Paralympian, global triathlete, and CAF spokesperson, Sarah’s name has become synonymous with resilience and representation. She was the first female amputee to complete the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, has graced the covers of Runner’s World and ESPN The Magazine, and has authored a candid and uplifting memoir, In a Single Bound.

But in 2018, Sarah took on what she calls the most grueling challenge of her life: the World Marathon Challenge—7 half marathons, on 7 continents, in 7 consecutive days. And she didn’t do it for the glory—she did it for a cause close to her heart: the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF).

From Paralympian to Global Advocate 

Sarah was born with proximal femoral focal deficiency (PFFD), a bone growth disorder that led to the amputation of her left leg above the knee at age 7. By her teenage years, she was already a U.S. Paralympian, later winning multiple world titles in short-course triathlon and earning accolades from the USOC, ESPN, and USA Triathlon. 

Yet Sarah’s journey has never been just about personal achievement—it’s been about creating a path for others. As a CAF spokesperson, Nike athlete, and public speaker, she has championed inclusion in sport, amplifying what’s possible for athletes with physical disabilities.

The World Marathon Challenge: 7 Continents. 7 Races. 7 Days. 

A CAF-Fueled Adventure Around the World 

The idea for Sarah’s participation in the World Marathon Challenge (WMC) came from CAF Board Member and Kona IRONMAN finisher David Samson, who wanted to unite athletes to race for good. Dubbed “Team Hold the Plane,” 16 athletes signed up to run across seven continents, raising funds and awareness for causes they believed in.

Sarah represented CAF, with each step powered by the motivation to inspire the next generation of challenged athletes. Her gear was branded with the CAF logo. Her heart was with every child and athlete she had ever mentored or met.

 Sarah’s 7-Day Global Journey: Country by Country 

Novo, Antarctica 

The first race set the tone: extreme. Running on ice—“ice on ice,” as Sarah described—was physically draining and mentally demanding. She fell multiple times but found strength in the memory of a young athlete who hugged his “Sarah Bear” every night during her journey. That connection kept her moving. 

Cape Town, South Africa 

A complete shift in climate and culture. Running in the midday heat, Sarah hugged the ocean wall for relief. A fan recognized her from The Amazing Race, boosting her confidence and reminding her she’d trained for this—just not quite like this. 

Perth, Australia 

Her first night race—and the moment the fun came back. Her playlist set the tone (“Do you come from a land down under?” of course), and the spirit of her coach, Michellie Jones, echoed in her mind. She finished strong and smiling. 

Dubai, UAE 

Cultural resonance took center stage. Sarah ran in a hijab to honor and represent local women, and she connected with a volunteer who leads an all-women’s workout group. They shared stories and hope—two women, one mission. 

Lisbon, Portugal 

Her toughest mental battle. Cold rain, slick cobblestones, and algae-covered docks tested her limits. Music got her through when she cried and considered quitting. But she didn’t. She slowed down, reset, and kept going. 

Cartagena, Colombia 

Hot, humid, and chaotic—but Sarah was undeterred. Racing through rush hour with uneven sidewalks and navigating horses and street vendors, she pushed forward. It was the only time she outran a horse. Literally. 

Miami, USA 

The home stretch. Family, friends, and fans cheered on the beach as Sarah closed out her journey with her fastest race of the week. Holding “Sarah Bear,” she crossed the finish line for CAF—and for every athlete chasing their dreams. 

Legacy in Motion: Sarah’s Reflections 

“This was the most challenging race I’ve completed, by far,” Sarah said. “IRONMAN is done in 17 hours. This was 7 days of staying mentally and physically strong.” 

She wore a lifetime of CAF shirts throughout the journey, a walking (and running) billboard of purpose. And in every country, she brought CAF’s mission to life—proving that sport is a universal language, one that transcends disability, borders, and doubt.  

Why Sarah’s Story Matters—Now More Than Ever 

As the world looks ahead to the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Sarah’s story reminds us of the power of visibility. Her example shows young girls with disabilities that they, too, can dream big. Her races tell a story of what’s possible—not someday, but now. 

Join Us in Championing Inclusion 

Let Sarah’s global journey fuel your own. At CAF, we believe that every athlete deserves the opportunity to push their limits, chase finish lines, and change the world. 

Together, we can remove barriers. Together, we move. 

Want more inspiration? Listen to Sarah’s full interview on Babbittville: babbittville.com/sarah-reinertsen-2018