February 8, 2007
This Year’s Youngest and Oldest Deaflympic Athletes
Youngest: Carina Crosby
Age: 16 years old
Sport: Women’s Alpine Ski Team
Country: USA
What is your favorite event? I love downhill skiing and I would say the slalom course is my favorite.
How did you become involved with this sport? I started skiing at the age of 2 and learned from my Dad who has encouraged me through the years.
What other sports are you interested in? I like to play golf and at my high school, I play varsity basketball (forward) as well as volleyball (setter). I like different sports but most of all, I just like to be active.
How did you end up on a Deaflympic team? I found out about the Deaflympics and decided to participate in the Telluride Tryouts. After passing the preliminaries and earning qualifying times, I was chosen to be on the US Ski Team. Ever since I found out I’ve been so excited. I’ve been practicing every single day since January.
What is it like to represent your country? It is a great feeling. I really like the camaraderie on the US Ski Team and hope to maintain my position on the team in future Winter Deaflympic events. I feel my skiing skills have really improved because of this experience and still dream of getting a medal someday.
Tell us about your deafness. I was born hard of hearing and when I was 12, I received a cochlear implant. I use a cued speech interpreter in a mainstreamed classroom. I don’t consider myself fluent in American Sign Language but am fascinated with it.