Few people share Ricci Kilgore's upper body strength...
After a life-changing car accident left her disabled more than a decade ago, she's modified her workouts to maintain her athleticism and her competitive spirit.
Aside from competing in the Paralympics, she also took on Tough Mudder 2011 - with the help of her friends on the Sierra Strength and Speed Team.
"I'm not really the one woman show that I thought I was. I used to be Miss Independent; I did everything on my own, but if it wasn't for other people - I wouldn't be who I am today."
Gym owner and trainer, Rob Conatser says last year even strangers on the course became honorary members of their team - because of Ricci. "There was one vet who wanted to carry Ricci. He said, 'I just gotta do something with this team.'"
That's what the intimidating event is all about -- getting through it with the help of one another.
And, in Ricci's case, proving you can accomplish anything you put your mind to as tough as it may be. "I love to be out of my comfort zone mentally and physically, because it builds you character."
Good luck to Ricci and Team SSS this weekend and in November, when they take on the "Tough Mudder World" competition.
Obstacles will include jumping into an ice bath, crawling under barbed wire, even running through an electric field at the end. Tough Mudder takes place Saturday at Northstar-at-Tahoe.
Written by Kristen Remington
