Andrew
From: Palmer, AK
Occupation: Professional Athlete
Hobbies: Fishing, handcycling, hockey, you name it
Level of Injury: T10-12 Incomplete (lower abdomen down)
Date of Injury: June 2006 (at age 13)
Cause of Injury: ATV Accident
KBF Grant: Handcycle and Hockey Sled
Andrew Kurka is an Alaskan who is one of the best Paralympic skiers in the world. He will be competing in the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games in South Korea. We connected with him as he wrapped up the World Cup circuit before heading to Asia.
“With the adventures of the world cup circuit coming to an end. The pressure and feelings start to pour on. This is it, PyeongChang is nearly here.
The season has gone extremely well, racing from Veysonnaz, Switzerland, to France and Canada, with many more in-between. It’s been a great season! With medals and successes that scatter throughout. The hard work, the determination, long hours of training. Waking up early, eating healthy. Living for one single moment. That is now, less than 30 days away. “
But he’s also an everyday athlete giving back to his community. Through the Active Fund, the Kelly Brush Foundation helped him purchase a handcycle to train in the offseason and a hockey sled to play and coach with others in Alaska.
We will be rooting for Andrew to win gold! Go Andrew!
Check out this video about Andrew and his Paralympic chase.
