There are some events that test far more than physical strength. They challenge resilience, determination, and the belief that forward is always possible, no matter how tough the terrain ahead. 

This year, Team CAF arrived in Leadville ready to embrace that challenge. Across two of the most demanding endurance events in the country, the Leadville Trail 100 MTB and Leadville Trail 100 Run, athletes pushed through high-altitude climbs, unpredictable weather, and countless moments of uncertainty. In return, they experienced something far greater than a finish line: the strength of a community united by a shared purpose. 

Buckle-Worthy Performances at the Leadville Trail 100 MTB 

The Leadville Trail 100 MTB, known as the “Race Across the Sky,” is legendary for a reason. Covering 100 miles of rugged Colorado terrain at elevations reaching more than 12,000 feet, it demands exceptional preparation, grit, and endurance. 

This year, Team CAF rose to the occasion. 

Ten of the team’s 11 athletes crossed the finish line in under 12 hours, earning the coveted Leadville buckle and showcasing an extraordinary level of determination. 

Among the standout performances was Thiago Ribeiro, who completed the course in an impressive 7:14, earning both the winning medal in the Para Division and a well-deserved buckle. 

Veteran athlete Willie Stewart added another remarkable accomplishment to his Leadville legacy, earning his 17th Leadville Trail 100 MTB buckle. That total does not include the additional buckles he has earned through the Leadville 100 Run and Lead Challenge, making his achievement all the more extraordinary. 

Lucy Maguire also delivered an incredible performance, finishing in 7:40 and claiming first place in her age group. 

While the results were impressive, what stood out most was the perseverance shown by every athlete who took on the challenge. Each mile represented countless hours of training, sacrifice, and commitment to reaching the finish line. 

Returning Stronger at the Leadville Trail 100 Run 

For some athletes, Leadville provides a chance to return and finish unfinished business. 

After the mountain bike race concluded, the Maguire family’s Leadville journey continued on foot. Chris Maguire returned for his second attempt at the Leadville Trail 100 Run, determined to tackle one of endurance sports’ most demanding tests. 

Alongside fellow athlete Seth Hall, who was also taking on the 100-mile challenge for a second time, both runners accomplished what they came to do. 

Their finishes served as a powerful reminder that Leadville rewards more than speed. It rewards persistence, patience, and the courage to come back after setbacks. Through long hours on the trail and moments when quitting might have seemed easier, both athletes continued moving forward until they reached the finish line. 

Air Force Academy Athletes Showcase Brotherhood and Perseverance 

For the past four years, Team CAF has been fortunate to receive support from the United States Air Force Academy through participation in the Leadville 100 Run. 

This year, Wells Finn, Joe Neal, and Blaze DeGracie joined that proud tradition. 

Their achievement extended beyond completing 100 grueling miles. Through more than 27 hours of running, changing weather conditions, and inevitable moments of physical and mental fatigue, they leaned on one another every step of the way. 

Their journey was a powerful example of brotherhood, teamwork, and service. 

They were supported not only by one another, but also by families, friends, Air Force Academy community members, and the larger Team CAF crew who showed up throughout the weekend to cheer, encourage, and provide fuel when it was needed most. 

More Than a Race: Raising $100,000 for Athletes with Physical Disabilities 

While Leadville is known for its mountains and miles, the impact of Team CAF extends well beyond race day. 

Together, Team CAF Leadville raised more than $100,000 to support athletes with physical disabilities through sport. Remarkably, that total represents approximately $1,000 raised for every mile of the Leadville 100. 

These funds will help provide adaptive sports equipment, training opportunities, competition support, and programming that empowers individuals with physical disabilities to pursue active lifestyles. 

Every donation represents an investment in possibility and a commitment to ensuring more athletes have access to the resources they need to chase their own finish lines. 

The Power of a Finish Line Family 

At CAF, success is measured by more than podium finishes and buckle counts. 

It is measured by the friendships formed during training rides, the encouragement shared on difficult days, and the volunteers, support crews, families, and donors who make every mile possible. 

To every athlete who clipped in, laced up, lined up, earned a buckle, or gave everything they had in pursuit of a goal: thank you for inspiring us. 

Your courage, determination, and commitment embody the spirit of CAF and the Leadville community. 

Congratulations to Team CAF Leadville on an unforgettable year. And to the volunteers, support crew members, donors, family members, and friends who stood beside these athletes every step of the way, thank you for helping create what has become more than a team. 

You’ve helped build a finish line family.