Each year, the San Diego Triathlon Challenge (SDTC) fueled by Toyota weekend brings together athletes with physical disabilities, supporters, and partners to celebrate the power of sport. Beyond the swim, bike, and run events, it’s a weekend where dreams are reignited—and this year, several athletes received CAF grants that will help them continue their athletic journeys. 

From prosthetic running blades to custom surfboards, these grants remove barriers to sport and ensure athletes can keep training, competing, and moving forward with the next generation. 

Danielle McLaughlin 

Grant Award: Össur Prosthetic Foot 

Diagnosed with synovial sarcoma at age 16, Danielle underwent a left foot amputation and faced the challenge of rediscovering her identity. Through CAF, she found confidence and purpose in running—competing in paratriathlon, completing the NYC Marathon, and earning second place in the Boston Marathon’s inaugural para-athlete division. 

Now, with CAF’s support, Danielle will receive a new prosthetic running foot to replace her worn equipment, allowing her to continue training, explore trail running, and keep writing her story—one mile at a time. 

Cali Hartmann (Age 14) 

Grant Award: Custom Surfboard – Robin Williams Endowment 

For Cali, the ocean has always been a place of freedom. Born with one hand, she first stood on a surfboard at age two and hasn’t stopped moving since. Now active in surfing, soccer, and basketball, Cali has found in CAF a community that celebrates her ability and drive. 

Through a Robin Williams Endowment Grant, Cali received a custom surfboard that allows her to keep chasing waves and confidence—fueling her goal of one day working in sports medicine to help others overcome barriers of their own. 

Andrew Lalli 

Grant Award: $2,500 Sport Expense Grant – EōS Fitness 

After a life-changing motorcycle accident in 2024, Andrew lost part of his leg and began the long road to recovery. His determination to return to running—and the freedom it brings—has been unwavering. 

This year, CAF awarded Andrew a Sport Expense Grant through an EōS Fitness, helping him train again and set new goals. He also plays golf with the NorCal Adaptive Golf Club, continuing to show others that life after limb loss can still be filled with movement, community, and progress. 

Toyota Grant Recipients 

CAF’s longtime partner Toyota continues to fuel opportunity through sport. During SDTC weekend, Toyota grants were awarded to four young athletes who are building confidence, discipline, and community through competition: 

• Lana (12, Kansas): Lana’s a dedicated competitive swimmer and seven-time adaptive sports junior national record holder. With her $2,500 Toyota Sport Expense Grant, Lana will travel to championship meets and continue training toward her ultimate goal — representing Team USA at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

• Max (10, Pennsylvania): Max discovered his love for competition through adaptive swimming, track and field, triathlon, and rock climbing. After competing at Move United Nationals last year, he found new confidence and pride in sport. His $2,500 Toyota Sport Expense Grant will support his continued training and national competition travel, helping him grow as an athlete and leader.

• Chase (15, Pennsylvania): Chase is a true multisport athlete who competes in track and swimming — recently setting four national records in the pool. His $2,500 Toyota Sport Expense Grant will fund travel and entry to national-level events this season, supporting his pursuit of faster times and new milestones in both sports.

• Tessa (13, Texas): Tessa has been swimming since age two and finds freedom and confidence in the water. She competes at regional and national swim meets and is determined to keep pushing her performance. Her $2,500 Toyota Sport Expense Grant will help her pursue advanced swim training and travel to major competitions across the country. 

A Weekend That Reflects CAF’s Mission 

From La Jolla Shores to La Jolla Country Day, the 2025 San Diego Triathlon Challenge fueled by Toyota showcased the full circle of CAF’s mission—funding access, fostering connection, and celebrating ability. Each grant awarded represents more than equipment or financial support; it’s an investment in confidence, independence, and the unstoppable spirit of sport.