From September 18-20, 2026, athletes from across the Northeast gathered in New Paltz, New York, for the CAF-Northeast Paratriathlon Clinic, a weekend dedicated to building triathlon skills, strengthening confidence, and creating meaningful connections within the adaptive sports community.

Hosted in partnership with Raw Endurance Coaching, the immersive three-day experience welcomed para triathletes looking to elevate their training, learn from experienced coaches, and spend time alongside others pursuing similar goals in the sport. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Hudson Valley at Minnewaska Lodge, the clinic provided athletes with the tools, support, and community needed to continue their triathlon journeys.

Whether participants were preparing for upcoming races or working to improve their performance across swim, bike, and run disciplines, the clinic offered a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and connect in an environment designed specifically for athletes with physical disabilities.

A Weekend Designed for Adaptive Triathletes

The CAF-Northeast Paratriathlon Clinic was created for athletes who have already completed a triathlon or are actively training toward one. Throughout the weekend, participants worked through sport-specific sessions focused on developing skills that translate directly to race-day success.

The clinic began with athlete introductions, bike and gear checks, and a shakeout ride that helped participants become familiar with the surrounding terrain and prepare for the weekend ahead. From there, the schedule combined technical instruction, hands-on training, and educational discussions to create a comprehensive learning experience.

Athletes participated in:

• Coached swim sessions
• Bike handling and cycling skills development
• Transition practice
• Outdoor run training
• Track workouts
• Race preparation and strategy discussions
• Educational sessions focused on paratriathlon pathways

The small-group setting allowed coaches to provide individualized feedback based on each athlete’s experience level, equipment setup, and specific adaptation needs.

Personalized Coaching and Real-World Skill Development

One of the most valuable aspects of the clinic was the opportunity for athletes to receive direct coaching tailored to their individual goals.

Throughout the weekend, participants worked closely with coaches to refine technique, troubleshoot challenges, and develop strategies for continued growth. By focusing on real-world training scenarios, athletes were able to practice skills that can improve both performance and confidence during competition.

Learning Beyond the Training Sessions

The weekend extended far beyond swim lanes and training routes.

Athletes participated in conversations covering race strategy, athlete development, and pathways within the sport, including educational discussions around USA Paratriathlon opportunities and classification. Participants also heard from industry leaders and members of the broader endurance sports community, gaining insight into the broader USA Paratriathlon pipeline and development series of races.

These sessions helped athletes better understand the resources available to support their long-term development while creating space for questions, collaboration, and shared learning.

The Power of Community in Adaptive Sports

While the coaching and training were valuable, many athletes identified the connections made throughout the weekend as equally impactful.

Between sessions, participants exchanged advice, shared personal experiences, discussed equipment solutions, and built relationships with others who understand the unique realities of navigating endurance sports with a physical disability.

For many athletes, finding a supportive community can be a critical part of staying motivated and pursuing ambitious goals. The CAF-Northeast Paratriathlon Clinic gave participants the chance to connect with peers who share a passion for sport, movement, and personal growth.

Creating Opportunities Through Adaptive Sports

CAF’s clinics are designed to do more than improve athletic performance. They create opportunities for athletes to access expert coaching, gain confidence, explore new possibilities, and see firsthand what can be achieved when barriers are removed.

By bringing athletes together in a supportive environment, the Northeast Para Triathlon Clinic reinforced CAF’s ongoing commitment to increasing access to sport and empowering individuals with physical disabilities to pursue active lifestyles and competitive goals.

Looking Ahead

The weekend concluded with a final swim and run session followed by a group lunch and camp recap. Athletes departed with new skills, fresh perspectives, practical training strategies, and stronger connections to the adaptive triathlon community.

Most importantly, they left knowing they are part of a growing network of athletes who continue to push boundaries, pursue ambitious goals, and demonstrate the power of sport to transform lives.

As adaptive triathlon continues to grow, clinics like this provide vital opportunities for athletes to develop their skills, expand their support systems, and take the next step in their athletic journeys.