'Our goal has always been to grow the sport'- How power couple Hunter & Tara Davis-Woodhall are giving back after Olympic triumph

Track and field power couple Hunter Woodhall and Tara Davis-Woodhall

'Our goal has always been to grow the sport'- How power couple Hunter & Tara Davis-Woodhall are giving back after Olympic triumph

Stephen Awino 20:00 - 10.12.2024

The track and field power couple of Hunter Woodhall and Tara Davis-Woodhall have set their site on growing the sport after their Olympic triumph.

Olympic and Paralympic champions couple Hunter Woodhall and Tara Davis-Woodhall are taking their passion for track and field beyond personal triumphs to create meaningful change.

The power couple, who clinched gold in their respective events, Woodhall in the men’s 400m at the Paralympic Games and Davis-Woodhall in the women’s long jump are now focused on giving back to the sport they love.

Their latest venture involves a partnership with the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), co-founded by Woodhall’s longtime mentor, Bob Babbit.

The foundation provides opportunities and support for individuals with physical challenges, helping them embrace active lifestyles through fitness and competitive athletics.

Reflecting on his journey, Woodhall shared the pivotal moments that shaped his outlook. “I was told I’d never be able to walk. After a lot of questions and guidance, we decided amputation was the best path forward,” he said.

Born with fibular hemimelia, Woodhall had his legs amputated at just one year old but grew up immersed in sports.

“I never let my disability be an excuse. As I grew, I found organizations like CAF, which help athletes with disabilities chase their dreams and build new lives.”

CAF’s mission resonates deeply with the couple. “CAF takes a bet on people, giving them a chance to see what’s possible,” Woodhall explained.

“Being around these kids and athletes who may have just lost a leg or are discovering new opportunities is inspiring. It’s about giving back what many think they’ve lost forever like the ability to run, play basketball, or enjoy sports they thought were out of reach.”

For Davis-Woodhall, their shared passion extends to showcasing the beauty and excitement of track and field.

“Our goal has always been to grow the sport we love so much,” she said. “We want people to watch track and field and feel the same excitement we do. It’s amazing to see more eyes on events like the long jump, which isn’t always the most celebrated.”

Through their advocacy and partnership with CAF, Hunter and Tara Davis-Woodhall are determined to inspire others, proving that sports can be a powerful force for change.