BREAKING: Larry Sidney, a dedicated athlete from Lake Tahoe, is back on the curling ice just months after a life-changing lower leg amputation in the spring of 2024. Now using a stick to push the rock, Sidney’s determination shines as he adapts his technique to continue competing at the Lake Tahoe Epic Curling club in Stateline.
This powerful comeback follows a remarkable journey through sports, including a stint in Olympic skeleton racing, where he reached speeds of over 80 mph. His story is one of resilience, highlighting the impact of sports on personal strength and recovery.
Sidney, who once competed for Team Israel in both curling and skeleton, faced a critical turning point last fall when doctors discovered a tumor in his leg. After careful consideration, he opted for amputation as the best path forward. “Deciding to move forward with the amputation was the hardest decision of my life,” Sidney explained. “The mindset and lessons I learned from sports helped me through this difficult period.”
Born out of a love for competition, Sidney’s journey began at the Utah Olympic Park, where he faced his fears head-on during a skeleton driving school. “My brother went down the track right before me,” he recalled. “There was no way I could bail on it. I had to do it.” This spirit of competition propelled him through years of rigorous training, culminating in his participation in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang as an alternate for the Israeli team.
Since his return to curling, Sidney has expressed gratitude for the support he has received from his family and the community. “Curling has been a significant part of my life,” he said. “Being back on the ice feels incredible.” With his sights set on future competitions, he is also exploring opportunities within the Paralympics.
As he juggles family life with a wife and two young kids, Sidney is also committed to coaching youth curling, passing on his passion to the next generation. “I hope my kids are learning the invaluable lessons of resilience,” he added.
Looking ahead, Sidney is optimistic about his future in sports and life. “There are challenges now that I didn’t have before, but I’m excited about what lies ahead,” he stated. This comeback serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength found in sports and the human spirit.
Stay tuned for more updates on Larry Sidney’s journey and his next steps in competitive curling.
