In his Calgary residence gym, Kurt Oatway is engaging in weightlifting and pull-up exercises as part of his final preparations for the 2026 Paralympic Games in Italy. The 41-year-old elite sit-skier is demonstrating unwavering determination to climb back to the top of the international stage following a serious crash that left him with severe injuries, causing him to miss the 2022 Beijing Games.
Reflecting on the incident at the world championships in Lillehammer, Norway, where he suffered broken bones, torn ligaments, and a punctured lung just weeks before the Paralympics, Oatway recalled making a firm decision while in the hospital that this setback would not mark the end of his journey.
The crash presented a significant challenge in Oatway’s career trajectory, which has been defined by resilience and persistence. Growing up in Edmonton within a family of skiers, Oatway initially learned the sport as an able-bodied athlete at the age of five. However, a rock climbing accident in 2007 during his geology studies at the University of Saskatchewan resulted in a permanent spinal cord injury.
Driven by a competitive spirit, Oatway quickly adapted to sit-skiing after discovering the adaptive program at Mission Ridge, a local hill near Regina, in 2010. His rapid progress, transitioning from tethered skiing to independently navigating the slopes, impressed coach Gord Poulton, who recognized Oatway’s potential early on.
The local ski community in Saskatchewan provided crucial support to Oatway, facilitating additional coaching and assisting with the acquisition of his first racing sit-ski. This backing, coupled with Oatway’s determination, marked a turning point in his return to skiing and served as a source of motivation for him and his family.
Oatway’s journey from a Saskatchewan hill to the global stage has required significant commitment from his entire family, involving substantial financial investments in equipment, training, and travel to various ski destinations. His mother, Carol Cox, even retired early to manage logistical aspects so that Oatway could focus on his skiing pursuits.
His competitive career with Team Canada has taken him across continents, culminating in a surprise gold medal win in the sitting super giant slalom event at the 2018 Paralympic Games in PyeongChang, South Korea. As he gears up for the upcoming Paralympics in Milan and Cortina, Oatway remains thankful for his roots in Saskatchewan and is resolute in his goal to return to the podium, acknowledging the significance of his journey and the opportunities it has presented.