From IM ABLE Foundation
Photo courtesy of Austin Mitchell
The IM ABLE Foundation proudly hosted its second annual IM ABLE Games: Races and Reps on the Runway on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum in Reading. With 184 participants and over 40 dedicated staff and volunteers, this one-of-a-kind event once again proved to be a powerful celebration of ability, inclusion, and community.
Set against the backdrop of vintage aircraft and an active runway, the event brought together athletes of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. From competitive racers to first-time participants, everyone found their place in this adaptive-friendly, high-energy day of movement and motivation.
Participants kicked off the day with a 2-Mile Fun Run, Walk, or Roll — an accessible course welcoming individuals of all abilities. Those looking for more intensity took on the Sprint Duathlon, featuring a 2-mile run, an 8-mile bike ride, and another 2-mile run. Race timing was professionally handled by Pretzel City Sports, ensuring accurate results for all competitors.
At the heart of the Games was the Kaaginator Fitness Challenge, named after IM ABLE Founder and Marine Veteran Chris Kaag. With multiple divisions — adaptive, beginner, intermediate, and advanced — the functional fitness course offered solo and team relay options, encouraging everyone to test their strength and endurance.
For the most daring athletes, the Trifecta Triple Crown presented the ultimate challenge: completing the Duathlon, the Kaaginator Challenge, and the infamous Hot Wing Hustle, sponsored by Klingers at the Airport. The timed wing-eating contest rewarded speed and spirit, offering a cash prize and bragging rights for the fastest finisher. Johannes Plaggenborg of Wyomissing claimed victory for the second year in a row, securing his title as this year’s wing-eating champion.
Music and energy filled the runway thanks to DJ and Announcer Hamilton Newton, while spectators and participants alike enjoyed local food vendors and craft brews in a festival-like atmosphere.
Proceeds from this year’s IM ABLE Games are supporting the Foundation’s mission of helping people with disabilities stay active through adaptive equipment grants and programs that include people of all abilities. This includes assisting Steve McLaughlin, a 41-year-old from Blandon, who became a quadriplegic in a tragic workplace fall two years ago that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Funds raised will help purchase an adaptive bike for McLaughlin, giving him the chance to reconnect with his love for the outdoors in a meaningful, physical way, while also empowering other adaptive athletes in our community.
“Our mission is about creating opportunities for all individuals — no matter their ability — to push themselves, connect with others, and celebrate what they can do,” said Alex A. Pilkington, CEO of the IM ABLE Foundation. “This year’s Games truly embodied that spirit.”
Becky Rennix, Program Director and Race Director, added, “The smiles, sweat, and sense of connection we saw throughout the day are exactly why we do this. It was an unforgettable celebration of strength, inclusion, and community.”
The IM ABLE Foundation extends its gratitude to all participants, volunteers, sponsors, and partners who made the event a success. For more information, email Becky Rennix at becky@imablefoundation.org or visit imablefoundation.org.
For more information about IM ABLE Foundation’s services, sponsorship, or to make a donation, please contact Director of Development Brian Sutherland at brian@imablefoundation.org or visit imablefoundation.org.
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Source: bctv