Paralympic Skier Andrew Kurka's Triumphant Farewell

0:00This is Cory with the story, and here's what is making news across Anchorage right now. Andrew Kirkka wrapped up his Paralympic skiing career on a strong note at the Milan Cortina winter games. The 34-year-old American sit skier took home a bronze medal in the Super G event. He also got a huge honor as one of teen USA's flag bears for the closing ceremony, sharing the role with fellow three-time Paralympian Kendall. Gretz, earlier in the games, things didn't start smoothly for Kirkka. He got disqualified in the downhill for missing a gate, hit by softer course conditions that slowed him down. But just two days later, he nailed his Super G plan, finishing less than a second behind the gold medalist from the Netherlands. Kirkka's path has been full of comebacks from injuries, like a broken thumb and humorous that sidelineed him before the 2022 games. He posted did not finish in his final two races here, but the bronze and flag bear and nod made it all worthwhile. His teammates cheered loudly when the announcement came, catching him by surprise.

1:02In an emotional speech to the team, Kirkka thanked them for the support over his 15-year career. He started out as a wrestler and joked about needing a sport that breaks fewer bones. Looking ahead, he's stepping away from Alpine skiing, maybe into coaching or business. He plans to think about his competitive future over the next two years, but his drive to compete remains strong. This DNA story is thanks to our sponsor details in the description. What is cooler than cool, a pillow that plays your sound, S-O-L-I, solely pillow dot com. Made in AI.