SuperH™ 5K Run, Walk & Wheel Supports Adaptive Sports Athletes at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital

This is the 23rd year for the event started by former patient Harry Freedman and his wife Renie.

WASHINGTON — SuperH™ 5K Run, Walk & Wheel is celebrating its 23rd year raising funds for adaptive sports and fitness programs at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital. Harry and Renie Freedman started the event to give back to the hospital following Harry's recovery from a workplace accident.

SuperH™ is a celebration of all adaptive sports athletes. It also serves as the main fundraising event for the programs offered to all MedStar NRH patients at no cost.  Through adaptive sports, participants build self-confidence, improve health and well-being, and gain greater independence following a life-altering injury or illness.

“Our adaptive sports programs are a welcoming and inclusive space. We want everyone to know there are these options available to them,” said Harsh Thakkar, director of community engagement and quality of life services for MedStar Health. “We can help so many people thanks to the money raised through events like SuperH™. We are thankful for another year of support.”

This year’s SuperH™ 5K Run, Walk, & Wheel will be held Sunday, Sept. 20 at OneLife Fitness in Tysons, Virginia starting at 8 a.m. Participants can choose the 5K course or take part in the one-mile fun run. 

“Adaptive sports have made such a difference in Adrian’s life. They’ve helped him build confidence, independence, and a real sense of belonging,” said Marta and Jose Icochea, Adrian’s parents. “These programs have also given our whole family an incredible community of support, and that means so much to us. We’re grateful for opportunities like Super H that help make these experiences possible for families like ours.”

Adaptive Sports and Fitness offers:

• Inclusive Programs: No-cost access to sports and recreational activities like wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair tennis, adaptive cycling, sled hockey, boccia ball, adaptive rowing and adaptive fitness classes for individuals with physical disabilities. 
• Comprehensive Support: Coaching, training, equipment, and travel assistance for participants.
• Competitive Excellence: Accessible to all skill levels, including paths from beginner wheelchair basketball to the Division I team ranked second in the nation. The programs are designed to meet participants where they are. 
• Community Events: Tournaments, camps and experiences hosted by MNRH are available year-round.   

“I am so very proud to be a part of this event and watch the programs we support grow over the past 23 years. I always look forward to celebrating with a huge after-race party including a live band, fun food and great swag,” said Harry Freedman, co-founder and event namesake. “I appreciate all the support we have received from our sponsors, donors and those who register.  I personally know how vital adaptive sports can be to someone’s recovery and I’m thankful I can help give back in some small ways.”

With the support of our community, generous donors and sponsors over the past 23 years, SuperH™ has raised more than $1 million to support adaptive sports and fitness programs. This year’s fundraising goal is $150,000. 

Click here to learn more about SuperH™ and how you can get involved!