Embracing its competitive spirit, CAF continued its hosting of four national championship events in July 2021 with an incredible Saturday of racing and community celebration. This action-packed day featured the U.S. Paralympics Cycling Crit National Championship, the CAF + Mission43 Kids Ride, and the US Paracycling National Relay—all part of the last domestic championship before the Tokyo Paralympics. 

Thrilling Crit Championship Under the Summer Sun 

The streets of Boise came alive as adaptive cyclists took on the Crit National Championship at the renowned Boise Twilight Criterium. With temperatures soaring over 100 degrees, athletes showed resilience, grit, and determination to push through the demanding course. 

Team Bridgestone and CAF athlete Will Groulx, already Tokyo-bound, raced with remarkable precision, finishing with an impressive time of 29:04. Paralympian Jamie Whitmore brought her championship mindset, holding strong at the front of the pack with a blazing 28:54 finish. 

CAF’s Women’s Adaptive Cycling Team also delivered powerful performances—Alicia Dana and Gabby Platt claimed first and second in the H3 category, while teammate Ryen Reed secured her own national title with a 29:45 finish. 

“This Crit was one of the toughest races of my career, but competing alongside so many incredible CAF athletes and knowing we’re inspiring future para-cyclists made it all worthwhile,” said Alicia Dana. 

Inspiring the Next Generation: Kids Ride Powered by CAF + Mission43 

While elite athletes fought for national titles, the afternoon belonged to the kids. Over 400 young riders lined up for the Kids Ride, a one-lap race around the Criterium course that welcomed children of all abilities. 

CAF kids Vivian, Brooklyn, and Ramon proudly represented the adaptive cycling community, riding alongside Paralympians Muffy Davis and Will Groulx. 

One unforgettable moment came when Brooklyn Gossard turned the corner flanked by Groulx and Davis, creating a powerful visual of mentorship and inclusion. New CAF grantee Vivian also completed her lap with a beaming smile, riding her new handcycle for the first time. 

“Riding next to Paralympians showed me that I can dream big. Someday, I want to race just like them,” shared Brooklyn. 

Teamwork and Tenacity: US Paracycling National Relay 

The excitement continued with the Handcycle Relay, where five teams of three adaptive cyclists raced in an electrifying team competition. Each rider completed three laps, with quick transitions and roaring cheers from the crowd. 

CAF’s Skullcrushers Team, led by Alicia Dana, powered to victory, while teammate Gabby Platt helped her relay team secure a close second-place finish. 

“Relay races highlight the best part of CAF—athletes supporting and pushing each other to go further,” said Gabby Platt. “There’s nothing like hearing your teammates cheer you on as you hand off for the next lap.” 

A Weekend of Sport, Community, and Inclusion 

From record-setting Crit performances to inclusive rides for young athletes, Saturday in Boise showcased CAF’s mission in action—providing opportunities, building confidence, and creating pathways for athletes with physical challenges to reach their goals. 

As the day wrapped up, athletes and families looked forward to the final stage of the weekend: the Road Race National Championship, set to push competitors to their limits before the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics. 

Related Reading: 

Friday’s Recap: Time Trials, Adaptive Cycling Clinic, and Surprise Grants 

Sunday’s Recap: Road Race Championships and Awards Celebration