In Boise, Idaho, the excitement of race season kicked off early for a group of young athletes who discovered the thrill of paratriathlon. The 2025 IRONMAN Foundation Swim Ready Paratriathlon Clinic, powered by the Challenged Athletes Foundation and J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, gave athletes ages 6 to 14 a chance to dive into the fundamentals of swim, bike, and run. 

This clinic was more than training—it was about building confidence, learning new skills, and creating a community of support through sport. 

A Hands-On Introduction to Paratriathlon 

Over the course of the clinic, eight young athletes took to the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse, where they received personalized, 1-on-1 instruction from world-class coaches. Each athlete rotated through sessions in swimming, biking, and running, gaining skills they could put into action right away. 

The coaching team included Rhonda Berry, Will Shecterle, Josh Sweeney, Willie Stewart, CJ Brown, Travis Ricks, and Gia Strang—mentors who not only taught technique but also inspired athletes with their own experiences in sport. 

Building Skills, Building Confidence 

For many of the athletes, this was their first introduction to the fast-paced world of paratriathlon. With encouragement at every step, they learned how to adapt the fundamentals of swimming, cycling, and running to their own unique abilities. Volunteers from Mission43 joined in as riding buddies and course marshals, ensuring every athlete had the guidance and support to succeed. 

The highlight of the clinic came at the end, when participants lined up for their own mini paratriathlon. With cheers from family, coaches, and volunteers, they put their training into action—swimming, biking, and running their way across the finish line. 

A Lasting Impact Beyond Race Day 

The IRONMAN Foundation co-hosted the clinic as part of their commitment to giving back to race communities. Their partnership with CAF ensured that these young athletes had access to equipment, instruction, and the kind of encouragement that sparks lifelong passion for sport. 

These clinics go far beyond a single day of activity. They open doors for youth with physical disabilities to experience the joy of sport, develop independence, and gain confidence in what’s possible. 

Moving Forward Together 

Thanks to the support of the IRONMAN Foundation, the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, and Mission43, these athletes left the Swim Ready Clinic not only with new skills but with a new sense of community. 

Get Involved 

Events like the 2025 IRONMAN Foundation Swim Ready Paratriathlon Clinic, powered by the Challenged Athletes Foundation and J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, are only possible with the support of volunteers, donors, and community partners. You can make a difference by joining CAF-Idaho at an upcoming clinic, cheering on athletes, or helping expand access to adaptive sports. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to discover the joy of sport.