The Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse buzzed with energy as eight youth athletes rotated through swim, bike, and run stations during the CAF-Idaho Kids Paratriathlon Clinic. What started as 30-minute skill sessions in each discipline culminated in every participant completing their own mini paratriathlon, crossing under the CAF-Idaho finish arch to cheers, cowbells, and a well-earned medal.
The clinic introduced young athletes with physical disabilities to the three disciplines of triathlon in a supportive, hands-on environment. For many, it marked their first experience with racing wheelchairs or open-water swimming techniques. For others, it was a chance to build on skills from previous years and push past earlier limitations.
The swim portion proved transformative for several athletes. One parent shared, “So excited that Juliet confronted her fear of swimming and made good progress! We sure appreciate you and everyone who makes these opportunities happen!”
Another returning athlete arrived with what coaches described as a “redemption” mindset. After his first clinic the previous year, he set his sights on improving his swim distance. This time, he more than doubled what he had accomplished before, a testament to his dedication and the quality coaching provided by swim instructors Becki Walters, Natalie Chandler, and Phil Fritz.
The race chair station brought its own set of breakthroughs. Two athletes tried racing wheelchairs for the first time, and despite some initial nervousness, both excelled once they got moving. Run and race chair coach Aaron Kamnetz worked with each athlete to find their rhythm and build confidence in the equipment.
Athletes spent the morning rotating through each discipline in small groups. The 30-minute sessions allowed coaches to provide individualized attention, helping athletes refine technique and troubleshoot challenges in real time.
CJ Brown led the cycling station, where family members joined as “bike buddies,” riding alongside participants. This created shared moments of accomplishment between athletes and their families. One memorable moment came during the race portion when an athlete accidentally rolled over a snake while cycling, launching it into the air. The snake was unharmed, and the unexpected encounter added a lighthearted story to the day’s achievements.
After completing their rotations, all eight athletes came together for the mini paratriathlon. The whole area filled with cheers as each participant crossed the finish line. CAF Ambassadors Willie Stewart, Travis Ricks, and Josh Sweeney joined coaches, families, and fellow athletes in celebrating every finisher.
The clinic drew support from across Idaho’s adaptive sports and triathlon communities. Volunteers from Mission43 provided hands-on assistance throughout the day. Members of a local triathlon club volunteered their morning despite racing Ironman 70.3 Boise the following day. Several CAF athletes competing in that same race also came out to support the young participants.
Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse staff ensured smooth operations and access to all three training areas. The coordination between coaches, volunteers, and venue staff created an environment where athletes could focus entirely on their performance.
Following the race, athletes, families, coaches, and supporters gathered for lunch. The meal served as both a celebration of the morning’s accomplishments and a chance to share excitement about the next day’s Ironman 70.3 Boise event.
During lunch, an Ironman staff member arrived with hats for all the young participants. The gesture connected the morning’s clinic to the larger world of paratriathlon and hinted at the possibilities ahead for these athletes.
Every participant left with new skills, increased confidence, and tangible proof of their achievement in the form of their finisher’s medal. One parent captured the day’s impact simply: “He was so excited that he can’t wait to do it again next year!”
The CAF-Idaho Kids Paratriathlon Clinic demonstrates how early exposure to adaptive sports can open doors for young athletes with physical disabilities. By breaking triathlon into manageable skill sessions and providing expert coaching in each discipline, the program removes barriers and builds genuine competence.
The small group size allowed coaches to address individual needs while fostering camaraderie among participants. Athletes cheered for one another, pushed through difficult moments together, and celebrated as a group when everyone crossed the finish line.
These experiences lay the groundwork for continued participation in adaptive sports. Whether athletes go on to compete in paratriathlon or simply gain confidence that transfers to other areas of life, programs like this create opportunities that might not otherwise exist.
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