**The Inspiring Journey of Clayton Frech and Bahar Soomekh: Advocates for Adaptive Sports**
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Clayton Frech and Bahar Soomekh have blossomed into well-respected advocates for adaptive athletes, co-founding the nonprofit organisation Angel City Sports in Southern California. The couple’s remarkable commitment to their cause has garnered widespread admiration, especially as they have nurtured their own son, Ezra Frech, into an accomplished Paralympian.
The story of Clayton and Bahar, who first crossed paths at an airport, is a tale of love, resilience, and mutual support. After marrying in 2001, they welcomed three sons, including Ezra, whose birth in 2005 came with challenges as he was born with congenital limb differences. From the onset, Clayton and Bahar ensured that Ezra was encouraged to pursue his aspirations, particularly in athletics.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Ezra shared, “My parents pushed me to be the best version of myself in all areas of life but particularly in sports.” Their unwavering support led him to participate in various sports, including basketball and soccer, and they instilled in him a sense of determination that has served him well throughout his journey.
Ezra’s remarkable talent has comfortably positioned him within the world of adaptive sports, culminating in his appearance on the popular television programme “Dancing With the Stars.” Recently, he dedicated a special performance to his mother, demonstrating the profound influence she has had on his life. His routine, choreographed to “Bloodline” by Mon Rovîa, pays homage to the values Bahar instilled in him, particularly around self-confidence and resilience.
Bahar Soomekh’s journey as an actress adds depth to the family narrative. Originally from Iran, she relocated to Los Angeles before the Iranian Revolution. After earning a degree in environmental studies, she found herself dissatisfied with corporate life and took a leap of faith to pursue acting. Her perseverance led to roles in noted films, including “Crash” and various entries in the “Saw” franchise. Currently, she balances her acting career with public speaking, real estate, and her role as a co-founder of Angel City Sports.
Clayton, on the other hand, is a seasoned business manager who has transitioned from roles in environmental projects to entrepreneurship. His experiences led to the creation of Angel City Sports alongside Bahar, aiming to fill a crucial gap in adaptive sports programming in Los Angeles. Their passion for environmental issues also forged a strong bond between them, laying the foundation for their dedicated work in both business and community-focused initiatives.
Their chance airport encounter, described as a ‘meet-cute,’ showcases the serendipity that led to their union. Clayton fondly recalls seeing Bahar walking towards his gate, planting the seeds for their future together. The couple’s wedding in 2001 saw Clayton convert to Judaism to honour Bahar’s heritage, highlighting their commitment to one another’s backgrounds.
Following Ezra’s arrival, the couple navigated their concerns about his health and future with great care. Both parents experienced a whirlwind of emotions, particularly Bahar, who recalled feeling apprehensive about her son’s future experiences and challenges. Their fears were soon overshadowed by Ezra’s remarkable spirit, prompting them to nurture his innate athletic abilities.
Realising that there was a lack of modified sports opportunities available in their area after a trip to a national event, the concept for Angel City Sports came into being in 2013. The nonprofit aims to provide adaptive athletes with the facilities and communities they need to compete effectively, ensuring they do not have to travel long distances to do so. “Anybody that has any kind of accident, loses a limb, is in a wheelchair, has a stroke or has a congenital difference knows they’re among a huge community of people that are making it happen at sports and in life,” Bahar stated regarding their mission.
The Frech family has continued to grow, with the addition of two more sons, Gabriel and Elijah. While the brothers remain actively involved in the nonprofit’s initiatives, Clayton acknowledges the challenge of balancing familial attention. He remarked on the family’s collective effort to support one another’s various pursuits while nurturing Ezra’s talents.
At the 2024 Paris Paralympics, Ezra demonstrated his appreciation for his family’s support by dedicating his Order of Ikkos medallion to Gabriel and Elijah. Their bond reflects the spirit of encouragement fostered by their parents.
The journey of Clayton Frech and Bahar Soomekh stands as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and commitment in creating opportunities for those who may otherwise be overlooked in the world of sports. Their work continues to inspire countless adaptive athletes, serving as a reminder of the significant impact a supportive family can have in overcoming challenges.