Higinio Rivero Fernandez

Started: He took up the sport at Club Plentzia in Spain. (bilbao.net, 09 Oct 2019; uribefm.com, 21 Sep 2016) Reason: He was always passionate about sports. A kayak was used in his rehabilitation, and it made him get involved in the sport. He initially competed in canoe marathon, and won gold at the 2016 World Championships in Brandenburg, Germany. However, in 2017 he switched to the sprint events in order to compete at the Paralympic Games. (bilbao.net, 09 Oct 2019; uribefm.com, 21 Sep 2016; mendifilmfestival.com, 2015) Ambition: To win a medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, and to compete in Nordic skiing at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milan-Cortina. (basqueteam.eus, 23 Apr 2024) Additional Info: NORDIC SKIING During the northern hemisphere winters he trains in Para Nordic skiing to complement his training for canoe sprint. In October 2023 he took part in his first international cross-country skiing competition in Oberhof, Germany. "[Skiing] was a way to return to the mountain, which I loved before the accident. It is also a chance to enjoy nature at its best. I enjoy it more with each passing day and I am motivated. I learnt about material and technical stuff [at the competition in Germany]. I got plenty of information and time on the snow. I already have an international classification so I can now compete. I have in mind to qualify for [the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in] Milan-Cortina. You always have to aim for the highest goal. Now I have to work. When I began in canoeing I dreamt to be at the Paralympic Games and I did it. So, why not dream to be there [in Milan-Cortina]. I will fight for it." (dxtadaptado.com, 29 Oct 2023; marca.com, 26 Jun 2023) FILM The documentary film 'Docu Yourself, Higi' features his journey to becoming a paddler after a climbing accident. The film was directed by his partner Itxaso Diaz. (Instagram profile, 12 Nov 2023; uribefm.com, 21 Sep 2016; mendifilmfestival.com, 2015)