Peak Motion athletes take physical challenge

Even at age 60, Roger Russell has no problem plowing through the mud.

The Camas resident earned first place in the over 55 category at the Rugged Maniac Obstacle Race May 31, at Portland International Raceway. He completed the 3-mile, 25-obstacle challenge in 43 minutes, 59.1 seconds.

“I was surprised that I was the top finisher,” Russell said. “This tests all levels of fitness. It’s not just one thing. If you like getting dirty, it’s a lot of fun.”

Russell, Kailyn Alexander, Katie Bradley, Kristin Teater and Mike Teater represented the Peak Motion Physical Therapy clinic in this event. Mike Teater took 19th place overall with a time of 32:08.5.

Competitors climbed 8-foot walls, crawled underneath barbed wire and through tunnels, crossed 2 by 4s above water, jumped over fire pits and plunged down a 50-foot water slide.

“The farther you go, the more tired you become,” Russell said. “Everyone finished with big smiles on their faces.”

After suffering two herniated discs in his back, Russell realized he needed to make changes in his life.

“Basically, I fell apart,” he said. “I stopped working out and had a bad back.”

Russell turned to Peak Motion, which is owned by his son-in-law, Mike Teater. Together, they found the right combination of exercises that helped Russell build a strong core and get his spine back into shape.

“It’s been a long road back,” Russell said. “I lost like 15 pounds in the process.”

Russell and the Peak Motion team plan to enter the Spartan Race Aug. 2, at Washougal Motocross Park.

“It feels good to know that I’m back in shape,” Russell said. “This way exceeded my expectations.”