Skier training for 2030 Winter Paralympics only a year after discovering sport

Born in Colombia without a left leg, Oliberth Reyes never imagined a future in skiing, let alone competing in the Winter Paralympics. Just last year, at 33 years old, he was introduced to adaptive skiing, a sport he had never encountered before.

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I didn't even think this sport was an option for me, or an activity that I would be able to do.

Reyes was immediately captivated by one-legged alpine skiing. "I didn't even think this sport was an option for me, or an activity that I would be able to do," he recalled. His natural talent was quickly recognized by Paralympic development coaches, leading him to train on the slopes of Perisher just weeks later.

To pursue his dream, Reyes has relocated from Sydney to Jindabyne in Australia's Snowy Mountains. His journey to skiing began after years dedicated to swimming in his youth in Colombia. Upon moving to Australia in 2018, he explored other adaptive sports like climbing, rowing, and wheelchair racing.

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I remember the first day vividly. I must have fallen a thousand times. That sense of fulfillment I felt towards the end of that first day is something that's going to live in my mind forever.

He vividly remembers his first day skiing at Perisher, despite falling countless times. "That sense of fulfillment I felt towards the end of that first day is something that's going to live in my mind forever," Reyes said. Encouraged by Snow Sports Australia coach Tom Hodges to practice rollerblading as a dryland equivalent, Reyes's dedication intensified.

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Getting to represent your country doesn't come easily and it's not an opportunity afforded to every person. He is working very hard and he's got his heart and mind set on it. It will be interesting how far he can go in such a short space of time. We are going to give him every opportunity to get to that point.

His wife, Sarah Mulcare, suggested the move to Jindabyne to allow him more time on the snow. Eight months after the birth of their son, Luka, the family made the move. Reyes, now an Australian citizen, trains five days a week while working as a barista, aiming to represent Australia in the 2030 Winter Paralympics. He is preparing for his first race event this season, with aspirations for international competitions next year.

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I am going to bring the gold medals