Andrew Kurka
Paralympic Gold Medalist, Competitor in the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, Inspiring Resilience Advocate
- Takes audiences on an unforgettable journey from a life-altering accident to Paralympic gold, inspiring them to see that with the right mindset, any setback can become a setup for success
- Equips audiences with real-world tools to build resilience, embrace change, and stay focused on their goals, even when the path forward feels uncertain
- Shares powerful lessons from the slopes, the wilderness, and beyond, motivating audiences to dream bigger and push farther
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About Andrew Kurka
Download ProfileAndrew Kurka’s life is a testament to grit, transformation, and the power of perseverance. Raised by a determined single mother in the rugged terrain of Alaska, Andrew grew up with few resources, but an abundance of ambition. His early dreams of Olympic glory took shape on the wrestling mat, where he became a six-time Alaskan state champion in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling.
At just 13 years old, those dreams were derailed by a devastating ATV accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. But Andrew’s story didn’t end there—it was only the beginning of a new chapter. During recovery, he discovered monoskiing, and with it, a new purpose: to chase gold once again.
Andrew blazed onto the adaptive skiing scene, joining the U.S. Paralympic National Team by age 18. Within five years, he was standing on an international podium, claiming a bronze medal at the World Championships in Panorama, Canada. In 2018, he made his Paralympic debut in Pyeongchang, where he seized both gold and silver medals, cementing his place among the world’s elite.
What truly sets Andrew apart is his unshakable optimism and drive. Even in the face of physical setbacks—like a race-day crash at the Beijing 2022 Games that broke his arm—Andrew chose to rise, adapt, and keep pushing forward. His ability to turn every challenge into fuel has only made him stronger, more focused, and more determined. With his eyes now set on Milan-Cortina 2026, he’s redefining what it means to persevere and inspire.
Off the slopes, Andrew brings that same pioneering spirit to his community. He and his wife opened the Golden Standard B&B near Anchorage, Alaska, a fully accessible retreat designed to help people with disabilities explore the untamed beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. As a certified bush pilot and business owner, Andrew embodies the belief that no dream is out of reach. He is exclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau.
Speech Topics
Download TopicsNo Limits: Turning Setbacks into Setups for Success. Paralympic gold medalist Andrew Kurka shares his powerful journey from a life-changing injury at age 13 to standing atop the world stage, proving that even the most unexpected detours can lead to incredible destinations. With a focus on mindset, resilience, and personal purpose, Andrew equips audiences with actionable tools to reframe adversity and keep moving toward their goals. He challenges listeners to see obstacles not as roadblocks but as opportunities for reinvention and growth. Speaking with authenticity, humor, and heart, challenging others to find strength in adversity, pursue passion with purpose, and never stop dreaming—no matter the terrain.
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