There’s Good News: Bend teen earns second place at USA Paraclimbing National Championships

KATY, Tx. (KTVZ) -- A 13-year-old climber from Bend is now among the nation’s top adaptive athletes after earning a podium finish at a national competition in Texas.

Evangeline Crossman placed second at the 2026 USA Paraclimbing National Championships in Katy, competing against some of the top adaptive climbers in the country. The Bend teen delivered a standout performance throughout the event, finishing first in the preliminary round before placing second overall in the finals.

Crossman is an eighth-grade student who is homeschooled and also attends Cascade Middle School. She trains with the competitive team at Bend Endurance Academy.

Despite significant physical challenges — including dyslexia and 5/200 vision in one eye — Crossman has emerged as one of the country’s promising young paraclimbers.

“I’m incredibly grateful just to be able to compete with such amazing athletes,” Crossman said after the competition. “Every climber here inspires me. My dream is to keep improving and someday represent the United States in the Paralympic Games.”

William Lister, a Paralympian and executive director of Bend Endurance Academy, praised Crossman’s performance and dedication.

“Evangeline’s performance this weekend was extraordinary,” Lister said. “To lead the field in prelims and then finish second in the nation at just 13 years old shows the kind of dedication and resilience she brings to training every day.”

Lister said para-sports can open doors for athletes while building confidence and community, adding that Crossman represents the future of the sport.

The USA Paraclimbing National Championships bring together top adaptive climbers from across the United States and serve as a pathway toward international competition and potential Paralympic participation.

Crossman’s result places her among the country’s elite young adaptive climbers and highlights the growing presence of adaptive sports in Central Oregon.