Let’s Make Every Day a PigAbilities Day.
Celebrating All Athletes, All Abilities
Through the rain and cheers at this year’s Flying Pig Marathon events, produced by Pig Works, something extraordinary unfolded. Among thousands of determined runners were the inspiring participants of the PigAbilities program—men, women and children with disabilities who had trained for eight progressive weeks to reach their personal finish lines.
As I watched participants cross those lines—some running, some walking, some using mobility devices, some being pushed in a wheelchair—I witnessed pure triumph. Not just in completing a race, but in shattering expectations and redefining what’s possible.
For eight weeks before the Flying Pig, these determined athletes committed to a journey that demanded far more than just physical training. For many individuals with developmental disabilities, those eight weeks represented an extraordinary climb—requiring resilience, trust, and courage in every step. While marathoners may train for years, the progress made in those eight weeks can represent a lifetime of barriers broken and goals achieved. Some participants set their sights on the full marathon, others on the half, 10K, 5K, or the family-friendly events. At the culmination of their training, they proudly came to the starting line. But the PigAbilities program is more than a regimen. It’s a philosophy that says everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, to challenge themselves, and to be celebrated for their achievements—regardless of ability level.
The true power of PigAbilities isn’t measured in miles—it’s measured in moments. The moment when a participant who was told they’d never be an athlete received their first medal. The moment when a crowd erupts in cheers as a runner with an intellectual disability crosses the finish line. The moments of hugs, cheers and tears at the finish line. The moment when a community sees beyond disability to recognize the athlete within.
At Ohio Valley Goodwill, we’ve seen firsthand how programs like PigAbilities transforms lives. Participants gain more than physical strength—they build confidence, independence, and social connections that extend far beyond race day. They see themselves as winners and achievers. They become part of a community that values their contributions and celebrates their achievements.
Why should this spirit of inclusion be limited to one weekend a year?
The time has come to make every day a “PigAbilities Day.” We need year-round programs that offer people with disabilities the same opportunities to train, compete, and be recognized for their athletic achievements. We need sporting events that accommodate all abilities as a matter of course, not as a special feature. We need communities that see adaptive athletes as athletes first.
This isn’t just about sports—it’s about building a more inclusive society. When we celebrate all athletes of all abilities, we create a world where everyone belongs. A world where accommodations aren’t special treatment but simply the tools that allow everyone to participate. A world where the finish line is open to all who wish to reach it.
As Cincinnati puts away its pig-themed decorations for another year, let’s hold onto the spirit of PigAbilities and continue to provide opportunities for athletes with disabilities to train, compete and excel. At Ohio Valley Goodwill, we’re proud to offer job training and employment support for people with disabilities year-round, guiding them through every step of finding meaningful work. We also provide our Center for Advocacy, Recreation and Education (CARE) program for those looking for enriching social activities and community connections. In that same spirit, let’s continue to ensure that every sporting event in our community welcomes participants of all ability levels.
And most importantly, let’s remember that an athlete is defined not by physical capability, but by heart, determination and the courage to pursue a goal. By that definition, the PigAbilities participants are some of the greatest athletes I’ve ever had the privilege to meet. And by the scenes at the PigAbilites finish line, I know this feeling was widespread and infectious.
While we must wait another year for the next PigAbilities race at the Flying Pig Marathon, which Ohio Valley Goodwill looks forward to sponsoring for a 9th year, I want to encourage everyone to join us in making the spirit of PigAbilities a year-round reality. Because when we celebrate all athletes of all abilities, everyone wins.
Mark Hiemstra,
President & CEO of Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries
Mark Hiemstra is the President and CEO of Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families by strengthening communities, eliminating barriers to opportunity, empowering individuals, and elevating the human potential through the power of work
