The Million Dollar Challenge (MDC) is more than a cycling event it’s a life-changing experience that unites riders of all abilities in a shared mission to transform lives through sport. In 2022, over 130 riders came together for an unforgettable 640-mile ride down the breathtaking California coast, from San Francisco to San Diego. This year set a new record, with 27 adaptive athletes riding alongside supporters, demonstrating strength, perseverance, and the power of community.

Together, riders, sponsors, and donors raised over $1.8 million, fueling opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities to access adaptive equipment, training, and mentorship.

The Ride of a Lifetime 

For seven days, MDC riders pedaled through some of California’s most iconic landscapes cliffside roads in Big Sur, rolling vineyards in Solvang, coastal stretches of Santa Barbara, and the sunny paths of San Diego. Each day brought new challenges, triumphs, and memories forged through shared determination.

Whether participants rode three days or completed the full weeklong journey, every mile was a testament to resilience and teamwork. Riders supported one another on steep climbs, celebrated milestones at rest stops, and crossed finish lines together—not just as cyclists, but as part of a powerful movement to change lives. 

Record-Breaking Participation by Adaptive Athletes 

This year’s MDC marked a historic moment with 27 adaptive athletes taking on the route. From handcyclists powering through long stretches of highway to amputee cyclists conquering climbs, their participation showcased the possibilities when barriers to sport are removed. 

Many adaptive riders shared how the journey symbolized freedom, independence, and belonging, reminding everyone why the Million Dollar Challenge exists. 

Sponsor Appreciation 

This transformative weeklong event was made possible thanks to generous sponsors and partners who fueled the ride and supported CAF’s mission: 

• Title Sponsor – Sully Entertainment: Managed event production, daily film coverage, and enhanced the rider experience with video storytelling. 

• Tech Sgt Jack Kushner Foundation: Made a significant fundraising contribution that will create life-changing opportunities for athletes. 

• 100%: Provided high-performance cycling glasses that kept riders protected and focused. 

• CalPrivate Bank: Offered crucial financial support, helping CAF reach more adaptive athletes. 

• Toyota: Supplied vehicles essential for supporting adaptive riders throughout the route. 

• GU and Zym: Kept cyclists fueled and hydrated, ensuring top-level performance across 640 miles. 

• N’Spire Happiness: Donated sun-protective arm sleeves for riders. 

• The Feed: Supplied water bottles and nutrition credits so cyclists could personalize their fuel for success. 

Empowering Lives Through Sport 

The $1.8 million raised from MDC directly supports CAF’s mission to empower athletes with physical disabilities. These funds help provide:

• Adaptive sports equipment (handcycles, prosthetics, racing chairs) often not covered by insurance 

• Travel, training, and competition grants to support athletes in reaching their goals 

• Camps and clinics where individuals can discover new sports and build confidence 

• Mentorship programs connecting newly injured athletes with experienced peers 

Through these programs, CAF breaks down barriers to sport, helping athletes of all ages and abilities live active, independent lives. 

The Spirit of MDC: Quotes from the Road 

“The pelotons showcased what the spirit of MDC is all about. The memories, laughs, and experiences we shared over the past 7 days are something to cherish forever. We had beautiful riding weather this year, basking in the sunny cliff-sides of Big Sur, the long stretches of land through Solvang, the coastal waterways along Santa Barbara, and finally, riding home through San Diego.”
– Anna Griessler, Special Events Cycling Manager

“Riding with adaptive athletes was inspiring beyond words. Watching someone climb steep hills with a handcycle or push through pain to reach a milestone showed me what determination truly looks like.”
– 2022 MDC Rider

Community Beyond the Ride 

The Million Dollar Challenge is just the beginning. Every MDC fundraiser automatically becomes part of the CAF Cycling Club, joining a supportive community of riders committed to empowering athletes with physical disabilities year-round.

CAF Cycling Club members enjoy:

• Local group rides in San Diego, Northern California, and Idaho

• A Global Cycling Club connecting riders online with training plans and challenges

• Monthly newsletters with exclusive cycling tips, athlete stories, and CAF updates

• Opportunities to ride alongside adaptive athletes in other CAF events

Interested in joining the CAF Cycling Club? Get started today and access year-round cycling perks. 

Be Part of the Next Million Dollar Challenge 

You don’t just ride in MDC…you become part of something bigger. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or someone looking for a meaningful challenge, the Million Dollar Challenge is your opportunity to: 

• Experience one of the most scenic multi-day rides in the country 

• Ride alongside adaptive athletes and witness life-changing resilience 

• Build lasting friendships and join a mission-driven cycling community 

• Directly support athletes with physical disabilities around the world