NAME: Schönfelder Gerd
D.O.B.: 02.09.1970
HOME: Kulmain/ GER

1992- 2010
16x Gold Paralympics
4x Silver Paralympics
2x Bronze Paralympics
14x Gold Para World Championships
8x Gold Para Overall World Cup

I started skiing when I was 3 years old. At the age of 19 I had an accident where I lost my right arm and a couple of fingers on my left hand. (Fun fact: I also invented Hang loose.) One year later I found myself back in the race course trying to win everything that I possibly could and it worked out pretty well. Sports, and especially skiing, saved my life. It helped me through the darker times and let me focus on the next step and to push myself, not only back to normality, but also back to joy and success.

What MOMENT do you ski for?
The rush of speed, adrenalin and the feeling of pure freedom

How do you recharge your batteries for the next challenge? 

Give everyday the chance to become the best day of your life.
I´m somebody who always looks on the bright side of life. If you wake up with a smile things will go your way. I learned to always be positive; it makes any situation easier to conquer.

How do you conquer difficult situations? 
Stay cool, think and then act.

How does your mindset (or attitude) influence your performance? 
Oh it´s all in your head. If you trust yourself that you can do it, you are unstoppable.

What do you do when you aren’t skiing? 
Wait for winter of course! I enjoy spending time with my lovely family, biking, playing soccer, golf, and swimming (in a circle :) )

Good preparation, self trust and good people surrounding you. This makes for a perfect starting point to push yourself forward.

ISPO Munchen