In 2014, Brandon Lyons’ life changed in an instant. While at the beach, he dove into shallow water and was left paralyzed from the chest down. What followed were months of rehabilitation and relearning the most basic daily tasks—from feeding himself to getting dressed. But Brandon approached his recovery the way he had always approached challenges: with determination and persistence. 

As he adjusted to his new reality, Brandon was introduced to handcycling. What began as a way to improve cardiovascular health quickly became something much more. The moment he clipped into his first bike, Brandon felt a spark. Handcycling wasn’t just about fitness—it was about reclaiming freedom, independence, and the thrill of competition. 

Finding Purpose Through Sport 

Three years after his accident, Brandon’s dedication was rewarded with an invitation to the U.S. Paralympic Cycling Residence Program at the Colorado Springs Olympic & Paralympic Training Center. He became the first handcyclist to live full-time at the facility, a milestone that reflected both his talent and his relentless drive to succeed. 

CAF has been part of Brandon’s journey from early on, providing grants for equipment and competition travel. That support ensured he could access world-class training, line up at international races, and continue advancing toward his Paralympic dreams. 

Success on the World Stage 

Brandon has represented Team USA at the highest levels of cycling: 

• 2019 Parapan American Games: Two silver medals 

• 2019 Paracycling World Championships: Silver medalist 

• UCI World Cups and National Championships: Multiple podium finishes 

• 2023 Parapan American Games: Silver medal 

Each result is proof of the progress he’s made since his first ride, but also a reminder of the opportunities created when athletes with physical disabilities are supported in pursuing their goals.  

Training and Competing Full Time 

Today, Brandon trains full-time with the U.S. Paralympic Cycling National Team, based in Colorado Springs. Balancing his professional career in accounting with the demands of elite sport, he embodies the discipline and resilience needed to succeed at the international level. 

Brandon continues to chase world championship medals and Paralympic qualification, building on a career already marked by perseverance and achievement.  

Creating Pathways for Athletes 

Brandon Lyons’ story shows how sport can be a catalyst for transformation after a life-changing injury. With support from CAF, he turned a moment of hardship into a pathway to elite competition and a life built around possibility. 

Join us in ensuring more athletes like Brandon have access to equipment, coaching, and competition opportunities that open doors to success on and off the field of play.