There’s a reason why the San Diego Triathlon Challenge is dubbed the “best day in tri” – because for many triathletes, it’s exactly that. The 1-mile swim, 36-mile bike, and 10-mile run is the signature event of the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), and the organization’s largest fundraising event of the year. But the event is much more than a way to raise money for adaptive equipment for athletes with disabilities. Throughout the weekend, participants of all abilities could connect with other athletes, participate in adaptive sports clinics, and celebrate everyone who is part of CAF.
Keep scrolling to see the photos from the weekend, captured by esteemed triathlon photographer Donald Miralle, and for more information about CAF, visit their website.
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Triathlon legend Bob Babbitt, who is co-founder of CAF, rallies the crowd before the start of the race.
Athletes get ready to swim in Mariner’s Bay.
For some athletes, the San Diego Triathlon Challenge was their first-ever race, accomplished after training with volunteers and staff at CAF clinics. For others, the race is an annual celebration of CAF and a family reunion of sorts.
The event was also a way for athletes to race with a guide. For more on volunteering as a guide, check out: How to Become a Guide for Athletes with Disabilities.
Athletes of all abilities were able to participate in the event – some as individual racers, and some as teams using adaptive equipment like boats or rafts.
A team celebrates the successful completion of the 1-mile swim course.
After exiting T1, athletes followed a route that took them to Point Loma. The out-and-back nature of the course provided plenty of opportunities to see and cheer on fellow triathletes.
The 10-mile run course traverses Vacation Isle before winding around Mission Bay.
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Each athlete who crossed the finish line was welcomed by Babbitt (background).
At the finish line, there was no shortage of medals – or proud smiles.
Participants were also offered the opportunity to participate in a 4.5 hour “Tour de Cove” cyclethon (pictured here), yoga by the bay, and a 5K walk.
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