When injuries change the course of a life, sport can be the path back to purpose, health, and community. The Challenged Athletes Foundation’s Operation Rebound program provides that path for American military personnel, veterans, and first responders with permanent physical disabilities. Through grants, adaptive sports equipment, and training opportunities, Operation Rebound strengthens both the mental and physical well-being of those who have served.

Chele Teabout: From Injury to Inspiration 

Former corrections officer Chele Teabout knows firsthand the life-changing impact of Operation Rebound. After being struck by a 500-pound food cart on the job, Chele endured 29 unsuccessful surgeries before choosing amputation. Facing severe depression and significant physical challenges, she was introduced to CAF and Operation Rebound—a turning point that led to losing over 170 pounds, completing 18 triathlons, and dedicating her life to helping others.

“Words can’t describe what CAF has done for me—they saved my life!”
— Chele Teabout, Operation Rebound athlete 

Chele’s story is one of hundreds where adaptive sport restored confidence, health, and community after catastrophic injury. 

The Mission of Operation Rebound 

Operation Rebound is open to: 

• U.S. Armed Forces members and veterans with permanent physical injuries 

• Law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics with service-related physical disabilities 

The program integrates these athletes into the CAF community, offering access to events, clinics, and competitions that reignite their competitive spirit and sense of purpose. 

“Operation Rebound athletes are not defined by their injuries, but by their heroic spirit and determination to overcome them.”
— Nico Marcolongo, CAF Operation Rebound Sr. Programs Manager

From the Frontline to the Finish Line at IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside

This April 1, ten Operation Rebound athletes will take on IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside, competing alongside 5,000 able-bodied athletes. The course demands grit and endurance:

• 1.2-mile swim in Oceanside Harbor

• 56-mile bike ride through San Onofre Bluffs State Park and Camp Pendleton

• 13.1-mile run along the Pacific coast

Some athletes will complete the race solo; others will join relay teams. All will carry the same mission—proving what’s possible after injury.

CAF has been the official charity partner of IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside for 12 years, using the event to raise funds and awareness for Operation Rebound. This year’s #TeamCAF lineup includes:

• Roderick Sewell, the first bilateral amputee to finish the IRONMAN World Championship

• Paralympians Eric McElvenny, Rudy Garcia-Tolson, and Willie Stewart

“Our continued partnership with IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside allows our athletes to reignite their competitive spirit and strengthen the community.”
— Nico Marcolongo, CAF Operation Rebound Sr. Programs Manager

Join Us in Supporting Operation Rebound

You compete. Our service members win. Your participation ensures more athletes like Chele have the resources to rebuild their lives through sport.