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In the adrenaline-fueled world of bobsledding, where speed, precision, and courage collide, one name stands out as a beacon of determination and innovation: Dave Nicholls. Hailing from the snowy slopes of Park City, Utah, Nicholls is not just a bobsled pilot; he’s a trailblazer pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in adaptive sports.

For nearly two decades, Nicholls has defied the odds, navigating the twists and turns of the bobsled track despite being an incomplete quadriplegic, reliant on a wheelchair for mobility. His journey is a testament to just getting it done no matter what.

At the forefront of Nicholls’ mission is his relentless pursuit to see bobsledding included in the Paralympic Games. Recognizing the lack of representation for athletes with disabilities in the sport, Nicholls has been a vocal advocate, lobbying tirelessly to break down barriers and open doors for future generations of para-athletes.

But Nicholls’ contributions extend far beyond advocacy. With a keen eye for innovation, he has pioneered groundbreaking adaptations for sleds, ensuring that athletes of all abilities can experience the thrill of hurtling down an icy track at breakneck speeds. His ingenuity has not only transformed the sport but has also inspired a new wave of technological advancements in adaptive equipment.

Yet, Nicholls’ influence doesn’t stop at the bobsled track. In a remarkable display of versatility, he has also made his mark on the ice as a goaltender for the Las Vegas Golden Knights sled hockey team. His prowess between the pipes serves as a reminder that in life, challenges are no match for determination.

As I sit down to speak with Nicholls, I’m struck by his unwavering passion. Despite the countless challenges he’s faced, his spirit remains unbroken, fueled by a love for the sport and a desire to leave a lasting impact on the world of adaptive athletics.

In the ever-evolving landscape of sports, Dave Nicholls stands as a true pioneer, carving out a path for inclusion and innovation. With each stride down the track and every save on the ice, he reminds us that the only limits that exist are the ones we place on ourselves. As bobsledding inches closer to its rightful place in the Paralympic Games, we owe a debt of gratitude to athletes like Nicholls, whose courage and determination continue to inspire us all.

And Coming up…the premier of the first two episodes of Rolling To Win: True Athletes, Episode One: Spotlight Dave Nicholls and Episode 2: Spotlight: G. Monster Jamm Grigsby. Premier on the Rolling To Win YouTube channel Sunday, March 17, 2024

—John