Some partnerships leave a mark that lasts far beyond a single event. The relationship between the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) and ROTH Capital Partners began with a shared belief—that sports have the power to connect people, open doors, and change lives. That belief was championed early on by Duane Roth, a visionary in the sports innovation world, and fueled by his friendship with NBA legend Bill Walton. 

Duane wasn’t just a supporter of CAF—he was part of its heartbeat. His passion for philanthropy and sports intersected in countless ways, from championing new programs to personally showing up for athletes. That’s why his loss in a cycling accident during a CAF event 10 years ago was felt so deeply across the community. 

In the days that followed, his family made a promise: Duane’s legacy would continue. They established the Duane Roth Legacy Fund to ensure that athletes with physical disabilities would always have access to the equipment, training, and community they deserve. 

Ted, Byron, and Gordon Roth have honored that promise for more than a decade. CAF has been the official charity of the annual ROTH Conference for 13 years, and the family’s dedication extends to the next generation—Ted’s daughter, Kristin Roth DeClark, co-chaired CAF’s San Francisco Gala in 2023 and will return as chair in 2024. 

Together, the Roth family and ROTH Capital Partners have raised more than $1.7 million for CAF, directly fueling opportunities for athletes worldwide. 

A Weekend Where Business Meets Purpose 

From March 17–19, 2025, the 36th Annual ROTH Conference brought together leaders from across industries to the Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel. While the event is known for being a premier investment conference, it has also become a powerful fundraising platform for CAF. 

Conference guests arrived to the sound of waves rolling onto the shore just steps from the hotel. Between panel sessions and networking meetings, many swapped business attire for cycling kits, athletic wear, or tennis shoes. 

This year, attendees had multiple ways to get involved. The highlight was the scenic 40-mile Duane Roth Legacy Ride, winding along the Southern California coast. Cyclists rode in small groups, trading stories as the ocean breeze carried the scent of saltwater. For those who preferred a slower pace, a sunrise yoga session offered quiet reflection, while the outdoor spin class provided a high-energy challenge under the California sun. Others embraced friendly competition on the pickleball courts, the sound of quick volleys and laughter echoing across the resort. 

Every activity carried a deeper meaning. With a $250 donation—matched by ROTH Capital—participants knew their sweat equity was directly translating into running prosthetics, handcycles, and tennis wheelchairs for athletes around the world. 

The Power of Athlete Stories 

CAF athletes were the heartbeat of the weekend. Willie Stewart, a Paralympic medalist and Ironman finisher, spoke about losing his arm in a construction accident and how sports became his lifeline. Landis Sims, born without hands and lower legs, recounted his journey to playing competitive baseball, including the hours of training and custom equipment it required. Michelle Pinard, Anthony Pone, and Kevin Keegan each brought their own perspective, showing that while their sports are adaptive, their determination is universal. 

The audience listened closely, leaning forward in their seats—not just hearing about the impact of CAF, but seeing it in real time. For many, these stories reframed the conference, turning it from a professional gathering into a personal call to action. 

Looking Toward Paris and Beyond 

CAF’s mission continues to grow. This year, many CAF-supported athletes are preparing for the Summer Paralympics in Paris. Since 1994, CAF has raised more than $177 million, fulfilled over 44,000 funding requests for athletes with permanent physical disabilities, and reached lives in all 50 states and 73 countries. 

The ROTH Conference is more than an annual event—it’s proof of what can happen when corporate partnerships are rooted in shared values. By honoring Duane Roth’s legacy year after year, ROTH Capital Partners and CAF are ensuring that athletes of all abilities have the chance to compete, dream, and achieve. 

Keep the Legacy in Motion 

Duane Roth believed that the true value of success is measured by what we give back. Every mile pedaled, every paddle swung, and every dollar raised at the ROTH Conference keeps that belief alive. You can join that mission—help us provide more athletes with the equipment, training, and opportunities they need to reach their goals. Explore ways to get involved and see how your support can change a life today.