UPDATE: Larry Sidney, a dedicated athlete from Lake Tahoe, has made a triumphant return to curling just months after a life-altering lower leg amputation in 2024. The South Shore financial adviser is back on the ice at Lake Tahoe Epic Curling in Stateline, employing an adaptive technique that allows him to push the rock using a stick instead of gliding on his knee.
This remarkable comeback comes after Sidney’s earlier career as a skeleton racer, where he reached speeds of up to 80 mph on icy tracks. His passion for high-speed sports and unwavering resilience have been pivotal in navigating the challenges of his recent surgery.
Sidney’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. “You build skills. You build resiliency,” he emphasizes, reflecting on the lessons learned through sports. These qualities have been essential in his recovery process.
The former skeleton athlete initially faced a daunting challenge when he first encountered the skeleton racing course at Utah Olympic Park. “I went down, and at the bottom of that first run, my mouth and throat were just parched. But once I got off the sled… it was like, when do I get to do this again?” he recalls, showcasing his thrill-seeking nature.
After competing internationally for Israel in both skeleton and curling, Sidney retired from skeleton in 2018 to focus on family and curling. However, he was faced with another life challenge in 2024. During preparations for the European Championships, doctors discovered a significant tumor in his leg. Ultimately, amputation became the best option for recovery.
“I had to have more testing done, and ultimately, in order to have the tumor removed, the best option was to have the lower part of my leg amputated,” Sidney shares. The decision was not made lightly, but his athletic mindset equipped him to face this hurdle head-on.
Now back on the curling sheet, Sidney is not only focusing on his own recovery but also on coaching youth curling and advising fellow athletes. He is looking forward to skiing with his kids this winter and exploring possibilities in the Paralympics.
“I find joy in my family life and coaching. There are challenges now that I didn’t have before, but I’m optimistic about the future,” he states, embodying the resilient spirit that has defined his athletic career.
Sidney’s story serves as an inspiration to many and highlights the power of determination and community support. As he prepares for the upcoming curling season, his journey is a reminder that resilience can lead to new beginnings, even after the toughest challenges.
This winter, all eyes in the curling community will be on Larry Sidney, as he continues to prove that nothing can keep a determined athlete off the ice.
