Shown here is Riley Martin with his dad John and lifeguards Joanna and Rupy. (Photo contributed)
Riley Martin from Oliver continues to prove that physical disabilities only hinder your success when you allow them to.
Recently the man was the first high level paraplegic to attempt and complete a 2.1-kilometre swim across Okanagan Lake. His time was 1:02.42 – unofficially the fastest time for a wheelchair user by 26 seconds.
“I could have never achieved this alone though. I owe the success to the knowledge and help of Joanna and Rupy, who are lifeguards at the pool I trained at,” said Martin.
His feat raised nearly $5,000 for the charity he represents – Highway to Healing in Oliver. The initial goal was $2,500, so he doubled that in pledges.
Martin thanked everyone who supported him and his cause.
“I’m glad I was able to attempt a challenge this big, and even happier that so many people were wanting to support Highway to Healing and myself.”
Martin said there were more than 60 pledgers from across Canada and even a couple from the US and the UK.
CONTRIBUTED
To the Chronicle
Riley Martin from Oliver continues to push physical boundaries. His latest feat was a 2.1-kilometre swim across Okanagan Lake, which raised nearly $5,000 for Highway to Healing. (Photo contributed)
