Watch An Athlete First

An Athlete First is a 2019 documentary that chronicles the journey of three athletes who have overcome significant obstacles to compete in adaptive sports. The film follows Logan Aldridge, Kevin Ogar, and Chris Stoutenburg as they train and compete in events around the world, showcasing the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

Logan Aldridge is a crossfit athlete who lost his arm in a boating accident at the age of 13. Undeterred by his injury, Aldridge has gone on to become a world champion in adaptive weightlifting and a leader in the adaptive fitness community. The film follows Aldridge as he prepares for the 2018 Crossfit Games, chronicling his intense training regimen and the support network that helps him push past his limits.

Kevin Ogar is a former professional crossfit athlete who suffered a spinal cord injury during a weightlifting competition. The injury left Ogar paralyzed from the waist down, but he refused to let it define him. The film documents Ogar's rehabilitation process and his return to competitive crossfit, demonstrating the determination and hard work required to achieve success in adaptive sports.

Chris Stoutenburg is a former wrestler and triathlete who became paralyzed after a car accident. The film follows Stoutenburg as he discovers hand cycling and begins to train for competitive events. Through his involvement in adaptive sports, Stoutenburg finds a new sense of purpose and fulfillment, inspiring others to pursue their own passions and overcome their own challenges.

Throughout the film, the audience is introduced to the world of adaptive sports and the individuals who participate in them. We see the challenges and rewards of training and competing, as well as the camaraderie and support that exists within the adaptive sports community. The film also addresses the societal and cultural barriers that people with disabilities face, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity and acceptance.

An Athlete First is a moving and inspirational documentary that showcases the incredible accomplishments of these three athletes and the larger adaptive sports community. The film's message of resilience, determination, and community is one that resonates long after the credits roll.