The world’s best seated para-alpinist
He was two years old when his parents took him skiing for the first time. Today, he is one of Norway’s biggest para-athletes and one of the world’s foremost para-alpinists. At the age of 23, Jesper Saltvik Pedersen already has 21 medals to his name and just finished his best season ever.
Having been paralysed from the waist down since birth due to spina bifida, Jesper is living proof that hard work and dedication can take you almost anywhere. Or in his case, to the top of a prize podium. The wheelchair Jesper uses is one of Etac’s Ki models. We therefore had the privilege of meeting him in Oslo to learn more about his life - and better understand what drives him.
I've grown up trying to focus on the possibilities, not the obstacles. That you actually dare to stand up for who you are, and what you want – that’s important. Cause when you want something badly enough, there’s very little that can stop you.
Embracing your own abilities
Jesper studies political science, and during our interview he shared his thoughts on Universal design. He points out how society is still not made for everyone, and that small obstacles can pose big problems for someone in a wheelchair. He says this can be quite frustrating, but describes how important it is to overcome one's fears, and what has helped himself to do so.
The wheelchair Jesper has is Etac’s model Rogue. It was designed to provide users with the perfect balance of performance and functionality, and is highly suitable for people with active lifestyles who want to maximise their mobility. Learn more about Rogue.
