When Erik Hightower first rolled onto a racing track at age eight, he wanted nothing to do with wheelchair racing.

“I absolutely hated it,” Erik remembers. “My parents had to bribe me with money—and even pets—just to get me to race.”

What started reluctantly has since evolved into a remarkable 25+ year career, making Erik one of the fastest wheelchair racers in the world and an inspiring figure in the adaptive sports community.

Rising to Elite Status

Born with spina bifida, Erik’s early exposure to wheelchair sports came through the Spina Bifida Association. Over time, he developed a passion for sprint racing that propelled him to the global stage.

🥈 2019 Parapan American Games: Silver in 100m and 400m, Gold in 4x100m relay

🥇 2019 World Championships: Gold medalist in 4x100m relay

🏅 Multiple-time Paralympian: Including the 2020 Summer Paralympic Games in Tokyo

Currently ranked in the top 10 worldwide in the 100m T54 class, Erik trains full-time at the Olympic Training Center in California, with his eyes set on future Paralympic podium finishes.

Trailblazer and Mentor

Beyond his own competitive achievements, Erik has dedicated himself to growing adaptive sports. He’s spent two years coaching with CAF’s High School Adaptive Sports Program, guiding young athletes through their first races and instilling in them the same confidence that fueled his journey.

In 2021, Erik, along with Kym Crosby and Justin Phongsavanh, received the Trailblazer Award for their courage, leadership, and impact in paving the way for the next generation of challenged athletes.

Living Proof of Perseverance

Looking back, Erik laughs at his early resistance to the sport that would define his life:

“I think about that kid who needed bribes to race, and I can’t believe how far I’ve come. Racing has opened doors, given me lifelong friends, and helped me inspire others to find their own path in sports.”

With every sprint and every medal, Erik not only proves his own resilience but also reminds the adaptive sports community that with commitment and courage, limits can be shattered.