Trailblazing Davy Zyw set to become first snowsport athlete with MND to compete at Winter Paralympics
Davy Zyw from Edinburgh will be the first athlete with motor neurone disease to compete in snowsports at the Winter Paralympics 2026.
Davy Zyw, a 38-year-old snowboarder from Edinburgh, is poised to make history by becoming the first athlete with motor neurone disease (MND) to compete in snowsports at the Winter Paralympics scheduled for Milano Cortina in 2026. His journey with MND started in 2018, a diagnosis that initially felt like a curse, but Zyw has since redefined his experience, turning adversity into motivation and inspiration for himself and others.
Now, Zyw views his condition as a 'tragic beauty,' which has rekindled his passion for snowboarding, a sport he dreamed of pursuing since childhood. He expresses gratitude for this opportunity to compete, seeing it not only as a personal triumph but also as a significant platform to raise awareness about MND, an incurable and life-shortening disease. His participation will not only showcase his dedication and skill but will also highlight the stories of those living with disabilities and the importance of support and understanding.
As he prepares for this monumental event, Zyw's journey serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the human spirit. He is determined to use his visibility at the Winter Paralympics to spark conversations around MND, aiming to educate others about this debilitating condition while inspiring fellow athletes and those facing similar challenges. His story is one of chasing dreams against the odds, which resonates beyond the sports arena and touches the lives of many.