National Ability Center Debuts 'Tread Setters,' Short Film

The National Ability Center, a leading non-profit organization that provides world-class adaptive recreation and outdoor adventures for individuals, families and groups with disabilities, released its first-ever short film documentary, 'Tread Setters.' The documentary, made in partnership with Outride and Osseointegration, follows four paracyclists as they ride the 100-mile White Rim Trail in Moab, Utah in one day.

"As an adaptive athlete myself, it was an honor to direct this film," said Louis Arévalo, director of 'Tread Setters.' "All athletes should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams, and this film showcases just that by spotlighting four adaptive athletes' incredible journeys and the limitless potential within the adaptive community. 'Tread Setters' gives viewers a glimpse into the adaptive nation, highlighting the supportive community and individual passions of each athlete."

The 'Tread Setters' trailer was released in June of 2023 and the film has premiered at several film festivals, receiving a variety of accolades. To date, 'Tread Setters' was named an award winner of the Voices Rising Film Festival, selected as Best Documentary Short at Global Shorts Film Festival, received an honorable mention at Lookout Wild Film Festival, was selected as a finalist at La Crosse Adventure Film Festival and recently premiered at the Outside Festival.

"Participating in 'Tread Setters' was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride a challenging trail alongside other incredible adaptive athletes and friends as I aimed to set the fastest known time for a self-supported adaptive athlete," said Steven Wilke, featured adaptive cyclist in 'Tread Setters' and volunteer at the National Ability Center. "This challenge was about more than proving to myself that I could do it; it was about inspiring fellow adaptive athletes to pursue their dreams of riding the White Rim Trail."

The film was made possible by the following people: Matt Didisheim: Executive Producer; Tasha Tinagero: Executive Producer; Louis Arévalo: Director; Austin Smock: Cinematographer; Hennie Van Jaarsveld: Editor; Annijke Wade: Adaptive Cyclist; Josie Fouts: Adaptive Cyclist; Roger Withers: Adaptive Cyclist; Steven Wilke: Adaptive Cyclist and the Utah Office of Tourism: Annual Partner.

To watch 'Tread Setters,' visit discovernac.org/tread-setters/. To learn more about the National Ability Center's programs or to become a volunteer, visit discovernac.org.