IN SHORT

Most people thought Arly Velásquez’s athletic career was over when he broke his back in a mountain biking accident. Although Arly lost the use of his legs, he refused to give up his passion for sports, and eventually found a love for mono- skiing. He would go on to represent Mexico in the 2010 Paralympics as well as in many other competitions before a second injury resulted in surgery that almost took his life. Again, he refused to give up. “I know what it’s like to not be able to do anything, so when you can do things – even getting out of bed – it’s a blessing. I am grateful all the time.”