CORTINA D'AMPEZZO — After suffering a nasty fall on the slopes during the women's downhill competition, American skier Lindsey Vonn announced that she had joined the U.S. Paralympics team.
Vonn, who was racing with a torn ACL, suffered a fracture to her tibia after falling during a run on Sunday. She was airlifted off the slopes and later taken to a hospital where she could be treated. After successful surgery to repair the fracture, Vonn decided her best chance to return to the slopes was to compete in the Paralympic Games.
"I technically don't even need legs," Vonn said. "No matter how badly injured I get, I'll still be able to compete."
The Paralympics is an international multi-sport event similar to the Olympics, but for disabled people. Vonn, who has battled a long list of significant injuries throughout her career, has reportedly already qualified for the games, which are set to take place from March 6 to 15. Sources said she was prepared to compete even if she is still confined to a wheelchair.
"Even without four working limbs, she's an absolute asset to our team," said U.S. Paralympic Coach Jeffrey Donovan. "I'm not worried about her inability to walk. Most of our athletes can't. She's still a great skier."
At publishing time, Vonn had taken a nasty spill during her first practice run for the Paralympic downhill skiing competition.
Coming soon to a Democrat-controlled city near you!
