Challenge Trek Team

Riley Woods Age: 28 Nationality: USA Home Location: Waco, TX Occupation: Student

Riley has always been an outdoorsman, enjoying hiking, camping, backpacking and other activities. Since he was injured on the slopes at the United States Military Academy at West Point during his junior year, he has sought activities that keep him fit, such as weight lifting, cycling, swimming and fishing. He has lived and traveled Europe and developed a great curiosity and respect for other world regions and cultures. About the Team Everest '03 expedition, Riley says:

I see a greater purpose and meaning behind such a quest. This Mt. Everest climb is not only about my own adventure, but about possibility and hope for a disabled community overcoming adversity to conquer great obstacles in the world. It is a blessing to be a part of this endeavor, which celebrates our present time when disability is no longer an end, but rather the beginning of a life, a time when we can open our minds to discover alternative and creative ways of achieving our goals and dreams. I have a strong will to succeed in whatever I do, and enjoy motivating others to do the same.

Riley will be competing in the National Veterans Games in Long Beach, CA this summer in both swimming and hand-cycling. He studied religion at Baylor University and completed his bachelor's degree in December 2002. He plans to attend Baylor Law School this coming fall. He and his wife Rachel were married in 1999 and live in Woodway, Texas.