You may have noticed the impressive skier featured above zipping down the slopes this winter. That would be Arly Velásquez! This amazingly positive and passionate Paralympian represented Mexico at the 2010 and 2014 Winter Paralympics. This season, he picked Tremblant for his training! Although he has lived his share of obstacles, he is a resilient man and is determined to achieve his goals.
An accident while mountain biking at age 13 left Arly Velásquez without the use of his legs. That never stopped him from maintaining his love for sports and speed. After trying many sports like wheelchair basketball and tennis, he discovered downhill skiing while on a trip to Banff in 2009 and immediately fell in love. It was a way for him to reconnect with the mountains, and with himself.
Being the type of person who goes all in and constantly pushes his limits, Arly figured that the best way to enjoy this winter sport would be to practice it competitively. Thus began the dream that led him to the Paralympics.
At age 27, Arly works very hard to train, promote his sport and represent his country; even with limited resources. In a country like Mexico, where winter sport is far from tradition, skiing requires financial resources and depends mostly on the athlete’s tenacity in achieving his dream. Good thing Arly is very tenacious! Now on to the next Games!
Good luck Arly and see you on the slopes!
