For four years, the Adaptive Sports Program of Ohio (ASPO) has hosted Caseys Challenge in a dual effort to raise funds and spread awareness. Caseys Challenge works to remind the world that disabled does not equal incapable.
This point was well made. In fact, its safe to say ASPO is gaining momentum as it accomplishes its mission. The combination of able-bodied athletes and athletes with disabilities felt natural and fitting.
The 5K and 10K walk/run took place on Saturday, July 13, with registration at Alice Noble Ice Arena. ASPO is a nonprofit organization that provides athletic opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. Lisa Followay, executive director of ASPO, developed the program because her son, Casey Followay, who was born with spina bifida, lacked athletic opportunities. The funds will go toward purchasing equipment for the athletes.
This year, the Wayne County Child Nutrition & Fitness Coalition, which is a committee under the Families and Children First Council (FCFC), featured the Blast off to Good Health fun run/walk. The purpose of this was to promote healthy choices for children. There were also educational stations for families to visit.
I think the event went very well, said Followay. We didnt surpass last years total number of participants as we had hoped, but we came very close. I am pleased with the turnout considering we moved our date.
Warren Craig serves on ASPOs board and has participated all four years. He explained that Caseys Challenge is important because it enables the able-bodied athletes to witness what the athletes with disabilities are capable of. He said this breaks down barriers and misconceptions.
Fitness for people who are disabled is vital for living a long and healthy, happy life, Craig said.
Craigs wife, Crystal Craig, agreed that fitness is important. She has been participating alongside her husband for two years.
Im here to support my husband and a lifestyle of fitness to keep moving and get out in the fresh air. And be an inspiration to the little guys, Crystal Craig said.
The event began with the fun run and then the wheel chair racers and hand cyclists took off. The footed athletes left five minutes later.
Watching the wheelchair racers and hand cyclists line up at the start of the race was an overwhelming and joyful moment for me. When I see them, all the hard work and long hours in preparation are worth it, said Lisa Followay.
In the wheelchair and hand cycle division, Jeffrey Fisher, adult wheelchair racer, placed first, Casey Followay, junior wheelchair racer, placed second and Eric Rine, junior hand cyclist, placed third. In the 5K, Ryan Collins placed first, Kevin White placed second and David Livingston placed third. In the 10K, Spencer Prewitt placed first, Michael Ewing placed second and Daniel Cronk placed third.
It was amazing to see the people of the community supporting Caseys Challenge. I am grateful to everyone who participated, sponsored and volunteered to help us have a successful event, said Casey Followay.
Joyce Johnson and Emily Steiner participated in the 5K walk/run. While both are able-bodied athletes, they cited the cause as their motivation to participate. Steiner explained that she has a sister who was also born with spina bifida, making the event very personal for her.
I think its a worthy cause and I just like to stay fit, Johnson said.
