This October, the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) will mark its 30th anniversary with the ultimate celebration of sport, inclusion, and community—the CAF Community Challenge fueled by Toyota. From Friday, October 20 to Sunday, October 22, athletes of all ages and abilities will come together in San Diego for a full weekend of events, culminating in the 30th Annual San Diego Triathlon Challenge presented by Dan + Geof.

For three decades, CAF has worked to remove the financial barriers that often prevent people with physical disabilities from accessing sport. Funds raised during the weekend will provide grants for adaptive sports equipment, training, travel, and mentorship—helping athletes pursue active lifestyles and achieve their goals.

Honoring Three Decades of Impact 

CAF’s story began in 1994, when a group of friends came together to support triathlete Jim MacLaren after an accident left him with quadriplegia. What started as a one-day fundraiser evolved into a global movement, raising over $159 million and fulfilling 44,000 grant requests for athletes in all 50 states and more than 70 countries.

“Thirty years ago, our journey began in the heart of La Jolla, fueled by a passion to make a difference,” said Bob Babbitt, CAF Co-Founder. “We embarked on this remarkable path, inspired by the extraordinary spirit of Jim, and today, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary, that same spirit continues to drive us forward.”

A Weekend of Inclusive Sports and Community 

The CAF Community Challenge is designed to unite athletes with and without physical disabilities in shared experiences, breaking down barriers and challenging perceptions of what’s possible. Over three days, participants, spectators, and volunteers can take part in clinics, competitions, and community activities:

Friday, October 20 – Kicking Off with Inspiration 

• Open Water Swim Clinic at Bonita Cove Beach 

• Adaptive Surf Clinic at Mission Bay Park, fueled by your San Diego County Toyota Dealers 

• Million Dollar Challenge Ride-In: Over 174 cyclists complete a 620-mile ride from San Francisco to San Diego, raising more than $2 million for CAF 

• Celebration of Abilities: Honoring athletes, partners, and community members for their achievements and impact 

Saturday, October 21 – Learning, Training, and Building Confidence 

More than 150 athletes with physical disabilities from across the nation will train with expert coaches at: 

• Össur + CAF Running and Mobility Clinic 

• Adaptive Surf Clinic 

• Wheelchair Tennis Clinic 

• Adaptive Cycling Clinic 

• Pool Swim Clinic 

Sunday, October 22 – The Best Day in Triathlon 

The weekend’s grand finale begins with the Parade of Athletes at Bonita Cove Park, followed by CAF’s signature San Diego Triathlon Challenge—a one-mile bay swim, 35-mile scenic bike ride, and 10-mile run through Mission Bay. Participants can compete individually or as part of a relay team.

Other Sunday highlights include: 

• Tour de Cove stationary cyclethon presented by EōS Fitness 

• 5K Walk, Run, and Roll presented by Nike 

• Jami Marseilles Kids Run and Roll presented by Philadelphia Insurance Companies 

• Toyota Sports Festival: Hands-on experiences in wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, curling, sled hockey, and rock climbing 

Toyota’s Commitment to Inclusion 

As the title sponsor, Toyota continues to play a pivotal role in making the CAF Community Challenge possible. Toyota’s commitment to mobility, innovation, and creating a barrier-free world aligns directly with CAF’s mission.

In addition to supporting the weekend’s events, Toyota will host the Toyota Athlete Lounge, giving participants a place to relax, recharge, and meet Team Toyota Paralympic Athletes.

Why It Matters 

The CAF Community Challenge is more than a weekend—it’s a catalyst for change. Each event entry, donation, and sponsorship fuels programs that provide athletes with physical disabilities the resources to train, compete, and thrive. 

This year’s 30th anniversary adds even more meaning to the weekend. It’s a time to celebrate the stories of athletes who have overcome obstacles, the donors and partners who have fueled their journeys, and the future of inclusive sports. 

Whether you’re swimming, cycling, running, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll be part of a movement that’s redefining possibility—one athlete at a time.