Grand Rapids has been selected to host the Hartford Nationals, a premier championship in disability sports, in 2025 and 2026, underscoring the city’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

The event, organized by Move United, is the country’s largest and longest-running championship for athletes with physical, visual or intellectual disabilities.

Courtesy of Hartford NationalsThe 2024 Hartford Nationals track and field competition.

The Hartford Nationals will take place July 11-17, 2025, bringing together hundreds of competitors from across the United States. Now in its 68th year, the championship showcases athletes who have overcome great challenges to compete at the highest level.
Courtesy of Glenn MerryGlenn Merry, Managing Director of Move United.
“We want to lead a movement to fully include people with disabilities in American society by using sports to challenge perceptions and redefine capabilities for youth and adults with disabilities,” said Glenn Merry, executive director of Move United. “Athletes just want to compete, and this event provides athletes with disabilities the opportunity to show themselves and the world what they can do.”

For the second time in Michigan

The West Michigan Sports Commission will lead the organization locally and continue its tradition of hosting major sporting events. Grand Rapids was selected as the host city after a nationwide application process, with the city’s experience and commitment to accessibility playing a key role in the selection.

“This event has only been held once before in Michigan, in Saginaw in 2011, so it’s exciting to bring it to the western part of the state,” Merry says.

Competitors will compete in a variety of sports including archery, powerlifting, paratriathlon, shooting, swimming, athletics and wheelchair tennis. In addition to competition, the event will also offer classes, training and social opportunities, creating a comprehensive experience for both athletes and visitors.
Courtesy of Mike GuswilerMike Guswiler, president of the West Michigan Sports Commission.
“We are thrilled to host the 2025 and 2026 Hartford Nationals and welcome these incredible athletes to Grand Rapids,” said Mike Guswiler, president of the West Michigan Sports Commission. “Our city has made great strides in promoting accessibility and we are committed to providing a world-class experience for all participants.”

The 2024 event in Hoover, Alabama, featured approximately 400 athletes and over 150 coaches from 34 states and the District of Columbia, and an even larger turnout is expected for 2025.

Move United, a national leader in adaptive sports and recreation, serves 125,000 youth and adults with disabilities each year. With 240 member organizations in 45 states and the District of Columbia, Move United is committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the life-changing power of sport.

“This National Adaptive Sports Championship is a great opportunity to highlight the importance of disability sports and accessibility in our region,” said Yvonne Fleener, President and CEO of Disability Network Southwest Michigan. “Celebrating athletes with disabilities can foster a sense of disability pride in our community.”

The WMSC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to attracting youth and amateur sporting events to the region, has hosted over 1,200 events since 2007, generating more than $649 million in direct visitor spending.

Courtesy of Hartford NationalsA swimmer competes in the Hartford Nationals.

Will Wilson, CEO of Disability Network West Michigan, says the benefits of hosting the Hartford Nationals will last long after the event itself is over.

“Being able to demonstrate inclusion through disability sports is a huge plus for our community,” he says. “The event is designed to highlight Grand Rapids as a center for disability sports, encourage positive conversations and have a lasting impact on West Michigan and beyond.”

The series is made possible through a partnership with Centers for Independent Living organizations throughout West Michigan.

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