Sponsored by SWIFT
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of catching your first wave. This summer, that feeling has become a reality for dozens of High Fives Athletes through the Adaptive Wake Surf Tahoe program, proudly sponsored by SWIFT. From June 10 through August 5, Lake Tahoe has once again become a place where confidence is rebuilt, barriers are broken, and athletes rediscover the freedom of being on the water.
Now in its third season, the Adaptive Wake Surf program continues to evolve, creating more opportunities than ever before for individuals with life-changing injuries to experience adaptive surfing in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.
Every session represents more than time behind the boat. It’s an opportunity to challenge limits, celebrate progress, and build lasting friendships within the adaptive sports community.
Athletes of Every Ability
The Adaptive Wake Surf Tahoe program welcomes athletes with a wide variety of life-changing injuries and physical disabilities, including:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Limb loss (amputees)
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Arthrogryposis
- Other life-changing injuries
No two athletes are the same, which is why every session is customized to meet individual goals and abilities.
Equipment Designed for Success
Finding the right equipment is essential for helping athletes succeed on the water. Throughout the season, participants have utilized several adaptive setups, including:
- Adaptive wake surf boards
- Wave skis
- Prone boards
These specialized boards continue to evolve through partnerships with Soulcraft and Macski, allowing athletes to spend more time surfing and less time adjusting equipment.
The program also benefits from the incredible wave produced by the MasterCraft XSTAR 25, giving instructors the flexibility to create a customized wake for riders ranging from complete beginners to experienced adaptive surfers.
More Than Just Wake Surfing
The Adaptive Wake Surf Tahoe program is about much more than learning to ride a wave.
It’s about building confidence after injury. It’s about reconnecting with the outdoors. It’s about creating a community where athletes encourage one another to try something they may have never believed possible.
Whether it’s a first ride lasting just a few seconds or an experienced athlete carving across Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear water, every success is celebrated by everyone on the boat.
Those moments of cheering, laughter, determination, and accomplishment are what continue to make this one of High Fives Foundation’s most impactful summer programs.
Thank You, SWIFT
The High Fives Foundation extends a heartfelt thank you to SWIFT for making this program possible. Their support continues to provide adaptive athletes with opportunities to return to the water, challenge themselves, and experience the freedom that comes from riding a wave.
As the summer continues, we look forward to welcoming even more athletes to Lake Tahoe and creating more unforgettable moments—one wave at a time.
