Since 1973, the Boulder Mountain Tour has been one of the most iconic cross-country ski races in the United States. Each winter, skiers gather in Idaho’s Wood River Valley to test their endurance along the breathtaking Harriman Trail, stretching from Galena Lodge through the scenic Sawtooth National Forest. 

But in 2021—amid a global pandemic and ongoing restrictions on large events—the 48th edition of the race took a bold step forward: it became not only virtual, but truly inclusive for the first time in its history. 

The Challenged Athletes Foundation – Idaho stepped in as a platinum sponsor of the reimagined event, helping bring the spirit of the race to adaptive athletes across the globe. From the rugged terrain of Sun Valley to the snow-covered trails of Switzerland, CAF athletes joined the “ski where you are” movement, completing their own 15K or 30K challenges and proving that sport knows no boundaries. 

Global Participation, Local Impact 

Instead of being limited to one course in Idaho, the 2021 Boulder Mountain Tour became a global celebration of ability, determination, and resilience. CAF athletes participated from multiple U.S. states—including Idaho, Colorado, and Oregon—as well as from Europe. Each athlete not only took on the physical challenge of Nordic skiing, but also carried the message of inclusion and opportunity through sport. 

Here are a few stories of the athletes who helped redefine what it means to take part in the Boulder Mountain Tour. 

Team Liza – Crested Butte, Colorado 

In 2003, Beth James received a life-altering diagnosis of brain cancer. A year later, a tragic car accident left her daughter Liza with a severe brain injury. Determined not to let their circumstances define them, Beth and Liza began competing together as Team Liza in endurance events around the country. 

Their resume includes countless marathons and triathlons—and a groundbreaking finish at the 2019 IRONMAN World Championship, where they became the first mother-daughter team to complete the iconic race. For the Boulder Mountain Tour, they adapted once again, taking to the snowy trails near their home in Crested Butte. 

“To participate virtually lifts our spirits and motivates us to stay happy, active and fit,” Beth shared. “We can’t wait for another finish line!” 

Josh Sweeney – Sun Valley, Idaho 

A former Marine Corps Sergeant, Josh Sweeney was injured in 2009 by an IED blast in Afghanistan, resulting in the loss of both legs. Not one to be held back, he turned to sport—eventually leading Team USA to gold in sled hockey at the 2014 Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi. 

In 2021, Josh embraced a new challenge: Nordic skiing. Supported by CAF-Idaho’s Wilson Dippo and a growing group of adaptive skiers in the area, Josh completed the Boulder Mountain Tour on the very trails that once seemed out of reach. 

“It was awesome to be part of an event with athletes all over the world. It motivated me to push myself further, and I can’t wait to do it again—hopefully right alongside those athletes!” 

Daniel Wyss – Switzerland 

From over 5,000 miles away, Daniel Wyss brought international spirit to the Boulder Mountain Tour. A police officer and lifelong athlete, Daniel lost his right leg in a devastating ripcord jump accident in 2013. Far from giving up, he saw the amputation as a turning point—and chose to live life more fully. 

Since then, Daniel has completed five IRONMAN races, run Switzerland’s iconic 100K race sixteen times, and stayed active in just about every way imaginable: swimming, cycling, paddleboarding, shooting, skiing, and more. 

“I’m proud to be part of the Boulder Mountain Tour and even more proud to ski as part of Team CAF. I hope my story motivates someone else to get back to sport after a life-changing event.” 

Redefining Finish Lines 

The 2021 Boulder Mountain Tour proved that innovation, adaptation, and inclusion can rewrite the rules of traditional competition. With support from CAF, the event was more than just a race—it became a global demonstration of possibility, connecting athletes through snow, sweat, and a shared love for sport. 

As CAF continues to grow its presence in Idaho and beyond, we’re proud to help pave the way for more athletes to discover new sports, new communities, and new finish lines—no matter where they are in their journey. 

Get Involved with CAF 

CAF is committed to providing access to sport for individuals with physical disabilities through grants, clinics, and mentorship opportunities.