by Leslie Parsons
On Saturday, November 7, athletes from across the Tampa Bay area will come together for a day of friendly competition, camaraderie, and community at the 9th Annual Stay in Step Ability Games. More than just an athletic competition, the Games celebrate the determination of adaptive athletes while raising awareness of the life-changing work being done by Stay in Step (SIS), one of the True North Foundation's nonprofit partners.
Founded by Romy and Gaby Camargo, Stay in Step provides activity-based therapy and support for individuals living with spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions. The Ability Games offer participants an opportunity to challenge themselves, enjoy physical activity outside their regular therapy sessions, and connect with others in the community.
From a Small Competition to an Annual Tradition
The Ability Games began in 2017 as a collaboration between Stay in Step and a local gym. The original goal was simple: create a fun, challenging experience for SIS clients while introducing the broader community to the organization's mission.
George Palang, Stay in Step's lead trainer, floor supervisor, and coordinator for education, has been with the organization since it opened 11 years ago. He first met founder Romy Camargo while completing an internship during his studies at the University of South Florida.
In 2021, George took over coordination of the Ability Games, helping expand the event into the annual celebration it is today.
This year's competition will feature 48 athletes divided into 12 teams of four, with each team consisting of two adaptive athletes and two able-bodied athletes. To level the playing field, all competitors participate in wheelchairs, regardless of their individual abilities.
The competition unfolds in two phases.
Phase One: Maximum Press Challenge
Each team has eight minutes to complete as much total pressing volume as possible. Athletes take turns performing presses with weights assigned according to their individual capabilities. Every team member must participate, and teammates rotate through the challenge until time expires.
Phase Two: Wheelchair Relay Race
The second phase tests speed, strength, and endurance. Teams race through a 30-yard course featuring four exercise stations: a modified rowing machine, front arm raises, landmine presses, and an assault bike. Each athlete must complete the course, with the fastest overall team taking the win.
In addition to team rankings, participants compete for individual honors against athletes in comparable categories. Winners receive medals and prizes, but the experience extends far beyond the awards.
Building a Stronger Community
While many adaptive athletes are Stay in Step clients, the Games now welcome participants from other rehabilitation facilities throughout the region. Able-bodied competitors volunteer their time, often coming from local universities, physical therapy programs, and fitness centers.
Approximately 80 volunteers are expected to help make this year's event possible.
The Games have also evolved into an opportunity to raise funds and build connections within the adaptive sports community. Local businesses sponsor the competition, while vendors offering adaptive equipment and services are invited to participate in a growing mini-expo.
Even the event photography reflects the spirit of inclusion, with a Stay in Step client capturing the action.
For George, the continued growth of the Ability Games represents an opportunity to bring more people together, introduce adaptive athletes to new possibilities, and showcase the abilities of individuals who refuse to let physical limitations define them.
At the True North Foundation, we're proud to support organizations like Stay in Step that empower veterans and others living with life-changing injuries. Events like the Ability Games remind us that strength isn't simply measured by how much someone can lift or how fast they can move. It's also found in perseverance, teamwork, and the willingness to challenge what's possible.
To learn more about Stay in Step and its work, visit www.stayinstep.org.