Rising to the Challenge: Hilbert Potter’s Journey from Soldier to Cyclist
“Life’s greatest victories are found not in what we lose, but in how we rise to keep moving forward.” — Hilbert Potter, Charlotte, NC
At World TEAM, every mile tells a story of resilience, connection, and community. This rider spotlight features Hilbert Potter, a U.S. Army veteran, amputee, and passionate cyclist from Charlotte, North Carolina. Hilbert’s journey from soldier to physical therapist to adaptive athlete is a powerful reminder of what it means to rise, rebuild, and keep moving forward.
My Journey
I am a United States Army veteran. During the Persian Gulf conflict of 1990–1991, my life was forever changed when I lost my right leg to an amputation. In those early days, the road ahead felt uncertain. I was faced not only with physical recovery but also with the daunting task of rebuilding my sense of purpose and identity.
Immediately after my amputation, I entered an intense period of rehabilitation. Physical therapy, mental hygiene, and prosthetic training became my daily battles. Each session tested me, but each also reminded me of what resilience could look like. Along the way, I was introduced to adaptive sports programs. Cycling, in particular, opened a door I thought had been closed forever. The feel of the road beneath me, even with an artificial limb, gave me a renewed sense of freedom.
When I retired from the military, I knew I wanted to give back. I pursued higher education, graduated from the University of Louisville, and became a licensed physical therapist. For 28 years, I had the privilege of working with patients facing orthopedic challenges, including fellow amputees. My professional work became an extension of my personal journey—a way to show others that setbacks can be transformed into stepping stones.
Through it all, cycling remained my greatest passion. Before my injury, it was a hobby I cherished. Afterward, it became something more: a symbol of possibility, perseverance, and joy. My love for cycling has only grown, especially as I’ve had the opportunity to participate in events that support adaptive sports and adventure programs for children and adults with disabilities. To me, cycling is more than a sport—it’s a way to inspire, to connect, and to prove that the human spirit cannot be limited by circumstance.
This is my journey: soldier, survivor, therapist, cyclist. And through every chapter, the message remains the same—life’s greatest victories are found not in what we lose, but in how we rise to keep moving forward.
Finding Community on the Road to Gettysburg
I was first introduced to World TEAM in January 2025, when my adaptive cycling team, Honor the Warriors, entered the Face of America: Gettysburg cycling event. Together, we committed not only to riding but also to raising funds to support World TEAM’s mission.
For me, the chance to cycle from Washington, D.C. to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania was nothing short of extraordinary. As an adaptive athlete, it was one of the greatest experiences of my life.
Along the route, I met some of the most inspiring men and women—individuals filled with resilience, positivity, and determination. Their spirit was contagious, and the camaraderie we built along those miles left a lasting impression. Just as powerful was the support from the volunteers and local communities. Every detail, from the rest stops to the medical and therapy professionals, was handled with care. The presence of massage therapists, physical therapists, and dedicated volunteers reminded me that this event was about more than cycling—it was about people lifting one another up.
The food, lodging, and overall organization made it clear this was a first-class event in every way.
More Than A Ride
What struck me most deeply was the purpose behind it all. Riding 110 miles was an accomplishment, but the real victory was knowing that our efforts were making a difference for children and adults living with disabilities. Being part of World TEAM showed me that adaptive sports are not just about athletic achievement—they’re about building community, restoring confidence, and opening doors of opportunity.
My involvement has fueled my passion for cycling even more and reminded me why I continue to ride: to inspire, to support, and to help prove that there are no limits to what we can achieve together.
Why This Ride Matters
Hilbert’s story is just one of many that come to life on the road to Gettysburg. Every rider—adaptive and able-bodied—helps build a community of strength, inclusion, and purpose.
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