From June 10–12, 2026, World TEAM Sports (WTS), The Center for Discovery (TCFD), and the Dolber Family Foundation proudly hosted the 16th annual Adventure TEAM Challenge: New York (ATC: NY) — three days packed with inclusive outdoor sports ranging from hiking to biking to rowing.
This year’s Challenge welcomed residents, staff, and volunteers for three unforgettable days of resilience and joy at the YMCA Frost Valley campus in Claryville, NY. For the 2026 edition, 12 individuals with varying cognitive challenges participated in ATC: NY for the very first time.
“We entered our 16th year in this terrific partnership with World TEAM Sports, and the collaboration has never been stronger between our volunteers, our sensational Center staff led by the recreation department, and our residential, clinical, educational, and administrative leaders,” said Jim Cashen, Assistant Chief of Integrated Arts at TCFD. “To date, over 200 children and adults have participated in this beloved annual event, and this year wowed the crowd once more!”
The event kicked off with a high-energy opening pep rally, a beloved ATC tradition. Teams were introduced: the Yellow Jackets, Blue Steel, and Red Tide. Resident Antoine sang the national anthem, and a round of stretches got the athletes warmed up for their first activity: an obstacle course. Field games followed, sparking spirit and teamwork across every team. Every activity was designed with customization in mind, ensuring that all residents could participate fully and joyfully. There was even a dunk tank — with the hot sun bearing down, everyone wanted a chance to soak Jim Cashen!
After the opening festivities, staff, volunteers, and residents packed up their gear and made their way from the Center to the Frost Valley YMCA. For those residents who are able, the trip offers a break from routine and a genuine sense of adventure. With log cabins, bunk beds, and fire pits, Frost Valley delivers the atmosphere of camping in the wilderness — and looking closely, you might spot a woodchuck poking its head out or a deer strolling through the trees.
Day 2 opened with a four-mile hike to Red Hill Fire Tower that tested endurance as the humidity climbed. But spirits were high. Athletes were eager to reach the summit and just as excited for the trek back down. After lunch, the group moved on to biking. Using modified adaptive bikes, residents rode laps around the Frost Valley campus— and more than a few staff members had to jog to keep up. The smiles on the athletes’ faces were priceless, a testament to the joy this event brings. The evening concluded with quality time around a campfire, complete with guitar playing and singing.
Day 3 saw ATC’s signature finale take place at Lake Cole with the annual boating regatta. Athletes climbed in kayaks and rowboats, expertly matched by TCFD staff to the appropriate equipment for their ability and comfort levels. Experiences ranged from furiously pedaling a kayak to a leisurely, spinning row powered by one oar at a time.
This year’s edition confirmed that ATC: NY isn’t just an event — it’s a powerful celebration of inclusion, possibility, and community. With adaptive gear, individualized support, and unwavering belief in each participant’s potential, barriers fall and lifelong memories are made.
“For more than 16 years, our partnership with World TEAM Sports has created meaningful opportunities for hundreds of individuals we support to build confidence, challenge themselves, and experience the joy of achievement,” said Dr. Theresa Hamlin, President and Chief Executive Officer of TCFD. “This year’s Adventure TEAM Challenge was no exception, as 12 of our athletes took on adapted challenges with incredible determination and spirit. We are deeply grateful to World TEAM Sports for their continued commitment to inclusion and adventure, and to Lon Dolber and the Dolber Family Foundation for their longstanding generosity and dedication to bringing this extraordinary event to our community each year.”
