Every October, the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) brings together athletes, supporters, and community members for a weekend that radiates hope, inclusion, and the life-changing power of sport. At the heart of this special weekend is the Celebration of Abilities Award Program presented by Aspen Medical Products—a powerful recognition of the people who define CAF’s mission through courage, resilience, and unwavering support. 

While 2020 brought unique challenges that kept us physically apart, the spirit of this event remained unshaken. Instead of gathering in person, the CAF community came together virtually to witness an unforgettable online program that reached viewers around the world via Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram Live. The result? A global celebration of strength, unity, and transformation through sport. 

Honoring the Heart of Our Mission 

The Celebration of Abilities Award Program is more than just an awards ceremony—it’s a reflection of the strength, perseverance, and impact of the adaptive sports community. Each year, we shine a spotlight on challenged athletes, dedicated partners, and inspiring fundraisers who embody what it means to move through life with purpose, grit, and generosity. 

Hosted by CAF co-founder and IRONMAN Hall of Famer Bob Babbitt, the 2020 program featured American pro-golfer Michelle Wie, KUSI’s Allie Wagner, and special appearances from well-known figures including Robin Roberts, Bill Walton, and Joan Benoit Samuelson. The energy of the evening was elevated by a moving live performance from Grammy® Award-winning band Switchfoot, underscoring the emotional resonance of the stories shared throughout the program. 

The Power of Partnership: Aspen Medical Products 

The event would not be possible without the incredible support of our presenting sponsor, Aspen Medical Products, whose 20-year partnership with CAF continues to grow in meaningful ways. What began as a volunteer-driven initiative—setting up tents, assisting with check-ins, and helping athletes during our early San Diego Triathlon Challenge (SDTC) events—has evolved into a company-wide mission of advocacy and inclusion. 

Under the leadership of Dan Williamson and Geof Garth, Aspen Medical Products has transformed their support into an integrated employee and client engagement initiative. As title sponsor of the Aspen Medical Products San Diego Triathlon Challenge, they help CAF raise over $1.4 million annually, creating thousands of opportunities for people with physical challenges to live active, fulfilling lives. 

In 2020, their commitment extended into the virtual space, becoming the presenting sponsor of the online Celebration of Abilities Award Program, ensuring that the stories and achievements of the adaptive community continued to reach hearts and homes worldwide. 

Celebrating the 2020 CAF Award Winners 

Each award presented during the Celebration of Abilities highlights a different facet of the adaptive sports movement—from barrier-breaking athletic performance to behind-the-scenes support that makes it all possible. 

🏅 The Jim MacLaren Award 

CAF’s highest honor, named for our inspiration and founding athlete, this award recognizes individuals who have made an extraordinary impact on CAF’s mission. 

🔥 The Trailblazer Award 

Awarded to a challenged athlete who not only excels in sport but also opens doors for others through leadership, courage, and advocacy. 

🌟 Aspen Medical Products Most Inspirational Award 

Honors an athlete who continues to inspire others with their spirit, perseverance, and embodiment of CAF’s core values. 

💪 Exceptional Athletic Performance Award 

Given to an athlete whose outstanding performance showcases elite athletic ability and unwavering determination. 

🤝 Partner of the Year 

Recognizes a partner whose contributions have been critical to CAF’s impact, reflecting shared values and deep commitment to inclusion and empowerment. 

Tying It All Together: The CAF Community Challenge 

The Celebration of Abilities served as a powerful bookend to the 2020 CAF Community Challenge—a virtual movement campaign that invited people of all abilities to run, cycle, swim, and move with purpose. From August 8 to October 18, participants from around the globe collectively logged over one million miles and raised more than one million dollars, proving that when the CAF community comes together, anything is possible. 

The funds raised directly supported adaptive athletes through grants for equipment, training, travel, and competition—delivering on CAF’s promise that mobility and movement should be accessible to all. 

Looking Ahead: The Movement Continues 

Even in the face of uncertainty, the 2020 Celebration of Abilities proved that the power of sport, storytelling, and community can transcend distance. As we look toward the future, CAF remains steadfast in its mission to provide opportunities to individuals with physical challenges—on the road, in the pool, on the court, and beyond. 

With the continued support of partners like Aspen Medical Products and the global CAF community, we’ll keep moving forward—together.