2022 2022: Professor to compete in adaptive skiing race to bring awareness to Paralympic sports

Associate Professor Andrew Revell to use the world’s only joystick-controlled ski unit in Utah competition

UMass Dartmouth Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of the Ora M. DeJesus Gerontology Center Andrew Revell will compete as the only adaptive skier from the Northeast region in the first Paralympic-style race for complex physical challenges, occurring in Eden, UT on March 25.

Revell and other competitors will utilize the world’s only joystick-controlled ski unit called the Tetraski and the French-designed SnowKart by Tessier. The racecourse and competition were designed by Tanja Kari, a 12-time Paralympic Nordic Skier and Gold medalist now based at the University of Utah Health Rehabilitation System.

Revell has been involved in adaptive alpine skiing since 2018 as part of the Adaptive Sports Partners of the North Country (ASPNC; Franconia, NH). The alpine program is based at Cannon Mountain and serves all ages. For Revell, discovering the joy of skiing led to exploring other adaptive sports, including his now regular participation in the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) cycling events.

“One of the main goals for the Ora DeJesus Center for Gerontology is to advance practical approaches for adults and older adults to improve their health and well-being,” said Revell. 

Exercise and recreation can benefit all, including adults and older adults who may not have full mobility. Participating in events such as this also promotes social support, as participants share expertise as they train and share in a common goal.

Learn more about the ski event.