Veterans with disabilities unite for Adaptive Sports event at Mt.Bachelor

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon Adaptive Sports will host its 19th annual Heroes Weekend at Mt. Bachelor from Jan. 29 to Feb. 1, 2026. The multi-day event provides veterans and active-duty service members with disabilities the opportunity to participate in adaptive skiing and snowboarding.

Based in Bend, Ore., the program emphasizes mountain access and shared experiences for participants of various ability levels. Athletes are supported by trained staff and volunteers as part of a long-standing commitment by Oregon Adaptive Sports to serve the veteran community through outdoor recreation.

The program prioritizes veterans and active-duty members who face barriers to accessing outdoor sports, including individuals who are new to adaptive skiing and snowboarding. Staff members match specialized adaptive equipment to a wide range of ability and experience levels to ensure all participants can spend time on the snow.

For many attendees, the weekend is centered on community and family participation. Dennis Hooper, a long-time attendee who lives in a household with two veterans, has participated in the event for multiple years. "We come to the Heroes Weekend with Oregon Adaptive Sports every chance we get," Hooper said. "Living in a home with two veterans, opportunities for both veterans to participate together do not happen often enough.

Events that get us both out of the house are great fun and create lasting memories for all." The event is supported by community partners and national organizations, including Move United and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Mt. Bachelor has served as a primary winter partner for Oregon Adaptive Sports for several decades. This year, the Tributary Foundation is partnering with the organization to provide wellness activities for participants after their time on the mountain.