Racing for More Than a Finish Line: The Pathman Duo Takes on Wildflower

For Jim and Riley Pathman, triathlons are more than just races. They are journeys filled with perseverance, connection, and a powerful message of inclusion. This year, the father-son duo is set to compete at the legendary Wildflower Triathlon, marking a long-awaited moment in their storied athletic career.

A Bond Forged Through Racing

Jim and Riley’s story is one of love, determination, and breaking barriers. Riley was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects muscle coordination and movement. But from an early age, it was clear that Riley had a deep love for sports and the race-day experience. Instead of seeing limitations, Jim saw possibilities. He made it his mission to ensure that his son could not only participate in races but thrive in them.

Together, they have tackled countless endurance events, from half marathons to full marathons, duathlons, and triathlons. Jim pulls Riley in the swim, cycles with a special tandem setup, and pushes Riley through the run. Their journey has made them an emblem of inclusion in the endurance sports world, proving that no finish line is out of reach.

The Wildflower Dream

Jim’s connection to triathlon dates back to his high school days in the early 1980s when he competed in one of his first races on Fiesta Island. Back then, triathlon was still finding its identity, often experimenting with grueling formats to determine the ultimate endurance athlete. But one race always captured his imagination—Wildflower.

“At one point, I heard about this magical race called Wildflower,” Jim recalls. “The old photos are amazing—it was dubbed the Woodstock of Triathlon. We tried to get there on many occasions, but something always got in the way. It’s been one of our bucket-list races, and we’re finally getting our chance this May.”

Wildflower is known for its rugged terrain, breathtaking views, and festival-like atmosphere that makes it a favorite among triathletes. For Jim and Riley, the race isn’t just about competition—it’s about experiencing the full spectrum of what makes triathlon special.

The Joy of the Journey

For Riley, the magic of triathlon goes beyond the race itself. “He loves the whole experience—putting a race on the calendar, the hours of preparation together, going to an expo, talking to everyone, listening to the music, getting race-day nerves, that first dunk in the water, the craziness of transitions, and then the rush of maybe passing a few athletes on the run,” Jim shares. “He wears his medal for days afterward, telling everyone about the race, what he ate, if we went fast or slow, and all the little moments like water in his goggles or a bump on the bike.”

While the race-day thrill is a highlight, for Jim, it’s about something even deeper. “At 26 years old, how many fathers get to do this with their son? The hours of training, the shared adrenaline, the quiet moments before a race starts—it’s about spending time together. And beyond that, it’s about showing other families that inclusion is possible. It doesn’t have to be triathlon, but there are always ways to include loved ones with disabilities in meaningful, active ways.”

Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Others

The Pathmans have never backed down from a challenge. They’ve raced in some of the world’s biggest events, sometimes having to fight for their right to be there. They’ve set records, inspired communities, and helped shift the conversation around inclusion in endurance sports.

Their impact extends far beyond personal achievements. As active members of Challenged Athletes Foundation and also Team Hoyt San Diego, they carry on the legacy of Dick and Rick Hoyt, the father-son duo who paved the way for athletes with disabilities in endurance sports. They continue to inspire families to redefine possibilities and challenge outdated perceptions of what’s achievable.

The Wildflower Moment

As they gear up for Wildflower, Jim and Riley aren’t just focused on race day—they’re embracing every moment leading up to it. They’ve dreamed of this race for years, and now, they finally get to experience the energy, the challenge, and the camaraderie that makes Wildflower so legendary.

“We just want to race for the whole package—the experience, the beautiful and challenging course, the people, and the chance to be part of something special,” Jim says. “We can’t wait to finally be there.”

This May, Wildflower will witness something extraordinary—the Pathman duo crossing the finish line. Their journey continues, and we’re all lucky to witness it.