MERIDIAN — The Limbitless Challenge to climb up Table Rock was supposed to take place October 19, but the rainy forecast created a challenge of its own and, ultimately, a cancellation.
“Initially, we were devastated that we had to cancel because we had so many people getting involved, but the silver linings that have come out of that cancellation have been amazing," said Limbitless Executive Director Ronald Kern.
One of the most notable silver linings came in the form of 21-year-old Trandon Mechling.
“We have been looking for someone that really represents the limitless mission, "Get up, Get out, Get going," and Trandon exemplifies not only all of those but has such an amazing, positive attitude," said Kern.
Trandon is the new global ambassador for Limbitless. He’s competed in multiple Spartan Races and is trying to get more GRIT Freedom Chairs to Idaho athletes. The GRIT Freedom Chair is an off-road wheelchair that Trandon has taken through his various spartan courses.
"The Freedom Chair is a little different because its made of all bike parts, so if you need new parts, you can go to your local bike shop and get new stuff," said Trandon.
The different attachable wheels can go through rocks, sand, and water.
"It's helped me, so when I do my training, I come in here, and I don’t get stressed out," said Trandon.
Trandon has cerebral palsy, and he’s determined to help improve access for more athletes.
"We wished I would’ve had this chair when I was little because it helped me; I can be a kid again," said Mechling.
Training three times a week keeps him busy, but he always has time to educate others.
"I like doing it because it gives me a purpose," said Mechling.
The challenge has been rescheduled for April 25. If you want to learn more about applying for a GRIT Freedom chair, you can click this link, or you can apply for a Challenged Athletes Foundation grant directly here.
