URGENT UPDATE: Larry Sidney, a determined athlete from Lake Tahoe, has made a remarkable comeback to curling following a life-changing lower leg amputation earlier this year. Just months after the surgery, Sidney is back on the ice at Lake Tahoe Epic Curling, utilizing a stick to push the rock instead of gliding on his knee.
This inspiring return highlights Sidney’s resilience and commitment to sport, as he gears up for another competitive season. The 2024 surgery followed the discovery of a tumor in his leg, leading to an amputation deemed necessary for his recovery. Despite this challenge, Sidney’s love for curling remains unshaken.
In the past, Sidney was a fierce competitor in skeleton racing, a sport that involves sliding headfirst down icy tracks at speeds exceeding 80 mph. His journey began with a weeklong “driving school” at Utah Olympic Park, where he first faced the daunting course.
“Once my brother went down the track, I knew I had to go next,” Sidney recalled. “At the bottom of my first run, I thought, when do I get to do this again? That’s how it gets you.”
Sidney transitioned from skeleton to curling, representing Israel in both sports. He was an alternate for the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. However, the journey has not been easy, as he faced stiff competition from athletes from countries with well-funded programs.
“There were four Israeli men competing for a single Olympic spot, a unique challenge for our self-funded team,” Sidney explained. “It’s incredibly tough to compete against nations like the U.S. and Russia.”
Despite these challenges, Sidney’s experiences have turned into a source of strength, and he credits his athletic background for helping him tackle the difficulties of recovery. “The greatest curlers miss shots and lose games. The ability to get back up and try again is essential,” he noted.
Now, as he resumes curling, Sidney is focused on his family and hopes to return to skiing and biking soon. He is even exploring opportunities in the Paralympics, emphasizing his resolve to overcome new obstacles.
“I’m optimistic about the future,” he stated. “There are challenges, but there are also incredible things ahead.”
As he prepares for another season of curling, Sidney is also coaching youth athletes, sharing his passion and life lessons with the next generation. His journey underscores the power of resilience, making his story a beacon of hope and determination for all.
Stay tuned for more updates on Larry Sidney’s inspirational journey as he continues to break barriers in sports and life.
