The 4th annual Turns & Berms camp, a collaboration between the Kelly Brush Foundation (KBF) and Oregon Adaptive Sports (OAS), brought 20 adaptive athletes together in Bend, Oregon, for a powerful long weekend of skiing, mountain biking, and connection. From carving slushy turns on Mt. Bachelor to kicking up dust in the Deschutes National Forest, this was more than just a camp — it was a reminder of what’s possible when community, challenge, and stoke collide.

Arrival Day: Bike Checks and BBQ

The weekend kicked off with athletes gathering for bike checks at the OAS office, followed by a welcome BBQ hosted by OAS sponsor Kendall Toyota. The vibes were high from the start — boosted by the custom party shirts that quickly became a fan favorite. One camper summed it up perfectly: “I still can’t wipe the smile off my face!”

Day 1: Slush & Dust

With blue skies and sunshine overhead, Day 1 earned its name. Athletes started their morning skiing in 40–50°F temps. After lunch, it was time to hit the dirt as temperatures soared into the 80s. The Lower Whoops Trail delivered flowy fun, some spills, and lots of laughs.

The evening wrapped up with a group dinner and optional exploration of Bend’s exciting nightlife. For many, this is when the magic came: “The times in the evenings after skiing and riding are just the best — there is so much connection and community! It’s incredible and it makes me feel alive!”

Day 2: Shared Wins & Slushy Grins

Warm overnight temps meant perfect spring slush for skiing. One moment that stood out came from a camper who took a spill — and turned it into a shared laugh: “Yes, I fell into the pit. In front of everyone! And yes, I emerged secure and confident that all was cool. We do that sometimes. Thanks for laughing with me!!” It was the kind of moment that captured the supportive, spirited energy of the weekend.

Skiing was followed by a sun-drenched lunch on a private deck at Mt. Bachelor — a highlight for many. Then it was back to the Lower Whoops Trail for another dose of dusty stoke. “Gonna be a lot of dust brows and dust stashes after riding today!” joked KBF Sr. Program Director Greg Durso that afternoon.

That evening, campers stayed in, sharing stories and soaking in the camaraderie. One participant noted: “I’ve been going through a difficult couple months, and this camp not only gave me a break from that, but a sense of belonging I’ve been missing. My world and attitude have changed for the better because of this weekend.”

Day 3: Brunch & Berms Returns

For the second year in a row, Day 3 was affectionately renamed “Brunch and Berms.” Athletes slept in a bit, then headed out to the Slough Day Use Area for a longer uphill and trail ride. It was a day of reflection, gratitude, and lunch by the river.

“This camp helped me feel connected to a broader adaptive sports community! I learned so much from spending time with a group of such fun, kind, badass people!”

Huge thanks to the athletes, staff, volunteers, and loved ones who made this year’s Turns and Berms camp such a resounding success. The adaptive community continues to lift one another up — on snow, on dirt, and far beyond.

Until next year — keep turning, keep shredding, and keep showing up for each other.

Photo Credit: Pat Addabbo