20+ Travel Grants Funded to Adaptive Skiers Competing in Historic Nordic Marathon 

With passionate support from the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), the nation’s top adaptive Nordic skiers are preparing to showcase their incredible talent at the Zions Bank 2022 Boulder Mountain Tour in Ketchum, Idaho on February 5, 2022. This historic event will see the largest field of adaptive Nordic athletes ever assembled at the race, thanks to over 20 individual travel grants provided by CAF. These grants remove financial barriers, enabling athletes from across the country—and beyond—to participate in this prestigious race. 

CAF’s commitment extends beyond competition grants; the foundation also supports development skiers who are training for future success in the sport through specialized camps leading up to the race. As a global leader in adaptive sports, CAF continues to provide critical funding, resources, and mentorship to athletes ranging from first-timers to Paralympic contenders. 

“We are thrilled to see our mission in action at a competitive race like Boulder Mountain Tour where our athletes can showcase their spirit and strength,” said Wilson Dippo, US Para-Nordic Coach and CAF Program Manager. “One of the biggest development hurdles faced by US Para Nordic Skiing is the lack of inclusive events to train and compete in. By removing financial and logistical barriers, CAF is creating interest to try new sports like Para Nordic and providing the ways to participate.” 

About the Boulder Mountain Tour 

The Boulder Mountain Tour, now in its 49th year, is one of the premier Nordic marathon races in the United States. Held in Idaho’s scenic Wood River Valley, this race attracts hundreds of world-class skiers annually to compete on the challenging 15km and 34km courses that traverse the Harriman Trail through the breathtaking Sawtooth National Forest. 

This event is also a vital platform for adaptive Nordic skiing. The Wood River Ability Program has long been instrumental in integrating adaptive events, and this year they have partnered closely with CAF to elevate the profile of adaptive athletes. Together, they are paving the way for the largest adaptive Nordic field in the race’s history—a significant milestone that highlights the growing inclusivity of the sport. 

Growing the Future of Adaptive Nordic Skiing 

CAF’s impact extends far beyond race day. The foundation supports an entire ecosystem of adaptive winter sports, including extensive grant funding, inclusive ski camps, clinics, and training programs. These programs create a clear pathway for athletes at all levels—from beginners just discovering the sport to elite competitors preparing for the Paralympic stage. 

Today, there are more than 21 million Americans living with physical disabilities, many of whom could participate in Paralympic and adaptive sports but face financial and access barriers. CAF’s role in breaking down those barriers by providing adaptive equipment, coaching, and travel grants is vital to growing participation and fostering competitive excellence. 

CAF’s presence in Idaho is made possible by generous support from the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, allowing the foundation to expand local programming and athlete development. 

Athlete Spotlights: Champions and Rising Stars 

Dani Aravich (Eagle, ID)
Born without her left hand and forearm, Dani’s determination has led her from Division 1 collegiate cross-country and track athlete to competing in the 400m at the 2020 Paralympic Games. Currently training with the U.S. Para Nordic Team, Dani eyes the 2022 Beijing Paralympics as the next step in her athletic journey. 

Lera Doederlein (San Diego, CA)
At just 18, Lera’s journey is one of resilience. After choosing bilateral above-knee amputation at age 14, she embraced multiple adaptive sports, including sled hockey and handcycling. Inspired by Paralympic gold medalist Oksana Masters, Lera recently took up Nordic skiing and biathlon, setting her sights on qualifying for the Beijing Games. 

Josh Sweeney (Boise, ID)
A Purple Heart recipient who lost both legs in Afghanistan, Josh led Team USA to gold in the 2014 Sochi Paralympic Winter Games in sled hockey. Now, he is pursuing Nordic skiing alongside CAF-Idaho coaches, embodying the spirit of adaptability and perseverance. 

Ruslan Reiter (Manchester, ME)
Born with an underdeveloped right arm and adopted from Russia, Ruslan discovered skiing at age 12 and quickly caught the eye of an Olympic coach. A member of Team USA since 2017, he competed in the 2018 PyeongChang Paralympics and aims for continued success. 

Grace Miller (Palmer, AK)
Grace was adopted from China as a child and grew up skiing and competing in Nordic events through high school. Meeting a Paralympic development coach inspired her to pursue elite competition, culminating in her 2018 Paralympic debut. 

Drew Shea (Bozeman, MT)
A university student and single-arm amputee, Drew discovered Nordic skiing at a Paralympic development camp in 2020. His rapid progress led him to compete in his first World Cup in Slovenia, marking him as one to watch for Beijing 2022. 

Bryan Price (Casper, WY)
Retired Army Staff Sergeant Bryan took up para-nordic skiing after a spinal cord injury and quickly ascended to the Paralympic team without prior national team experience. A two-time Paralympian, Bryan’s story exemplifies resilience and determination. 

Willie Stewart (Boise, ID)
After losing his left arm in a construction accident, Willie turned to extreme endurance sports, including IRONMAN and the Paralympic Winter Games in cross-country skiing. A respected athlete and advocate, Willie mentors fellow adaptive athletes and embodies the spirit of CAF. 

Join the Movement: Support Adaptive Athletes at the 2022 Boulder Mountain Tour 

The Boulder Mountain Tour is more than a race—it’s a celebration of ability, resilience, and community. CAF’s support ensures adaptive athletes have the resources to compete at their highest level and inspire others to embrace adaptive sports. 

If you are a member of the media interested in interviews or b-roll footage of CAF athletes competing at the Boulder Mountain Tour, please contact Christy Fritts at christy@challengedathletes.org. 

Follow the journey of CAF athletes as they prepare for and compete in the Boulder Mountain Tour by joining the conversation on social media with #TeamCAF and #CAFStrong.