Wasatch Adaptive Sports hosts disability-inclusive Subaru Athlete Challenge
Mar 5, 2024, 1:07 PM
A screenshot showing participants at the 2023 Subaru Athlete Challenge. On March 9, Wasatch Adaptive Sports will host this year's event. (Screenshot of a video courtesy of Wasatch Adaptive Sports)
(Screenshot of a video courtesy of Wasatch Adaptive Sports)
SNOWBIRD, Utah — Wasatch Adaptive Sports will host the Subaru Athlete Challenge on March 9 at Snowbird. The event is a disability-inclusive race, inviting skiers of all skill levels and abilities to participate.
According to the press release, the Subaru Athlete Challenge is part of the 38th HGGC Steve Young Ski Classic. The annual event will begin on Saturday at 11:15 a.m.
Organizers describe the challenge as a “fun and friendly downhill ski race.” It will take place in the Chickadee area, one of the resort’s easy ski areas.
Utah native, and BYU alum Steve Young (also a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback) will attend the event along with other professional athletes, mascots, and princesses.
“Getting outdoors at Snowbird and skiing alongside Wasatch Adaptive Sports students and instructors at the Subaru Athlete Challenge is always such a fun and engaging experience,” said Young.
Anyone interested in supporting the event can do so through Wasatch Adaptive Sport’s virtual auction. It opened on March 4 and continues through Saturday, March 9.
Bringing outdoor recreation to those with disabilities
Wasatch Adaptive Sports helps bring outdoor recreation to those with disabilities, according to the organization’s website. The nonprofit does not charge an initial fee to those who want to participate.
During the winter, Wasatch Adaptive Sports offers skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, and indoor cycling. Additionally, the website said the organization will be offering a monoski camp for advanced sit skiers.
According to Elizabeth Kimball, the executive director of Wasatch Adaptive Sports, many people don’t know that adaptive skiing is an option.
“To see these students shredding down the mountain alongside Steve Young, competing and cultivating their independence and confidence, it’s really what our organization is all about,” said Kimball.
Wasatch Adaptive Sports also offers adaptive recreation in the warmer months. During the summer, they offer cycling, mountain biking, and paddle sports.
Yoga is offered year-round.
“The Subaru Athlete Challenge is a wonderful celebration of our students in this program, as well as our long-time support from Steve Young, Snowbird, Subaru, and the many partners and sponsors that make our work possible,” said Kimball.
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