On March 11, 2011, Andre Barbieri’s life changed in an instant. While snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain, a crash left him with a severe injury that resulted in the amputation of his leg above the knee. What could have ended his athletic career instead fueled his determination to forge a new path in sport. 

Andre refused to let his accident define the limits of what was possible. His recovery quickly turned into a journey of rebuilding strength, testing new boundaries, and embracing opportunities through adaptive sport. 

A Journey Through Sport 

Originally from Santa Barbara, California, Andre grew up with a passion for the outdoors. After his accident, he returned to competition first through triathlon, representing Brazil on the international stage for four years. His dedication to the sport earned him recognition across the paratriathlon community. 

But when Andre learned that his triathlon classification would not be part of the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo, he faced another turning point. Rather than step away from elite sport, he shifted focus to something that had inspired him long before his accident—snowboarding. 

Andre first discovered snowboarding in 2004 while working at a resort in Colorado. Returning to the slopes after his injury was both physically demanding and emotionally powerful. With time, training, and the right support, he transformed the mountain from the site of his greatest setback into the stage for his next achievement. 

Representing Brazil on the World Stage 

In 2018, Andre committed fully to Para snowboarding with the goal of qualifying for the Paralympic Games. His relentless drive paid off when he earned a spot to represent Brazil in Para snowboarding at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games. Competing in the very sport that once took his leg, Andre demonstrated not only resilience but a refusal to let fear or circumstance limit what he could accomplish. 

Beyond Competition 

Andre continues to inspire as both an athlete and advocate. His story resonates with anyone who has faced a major setback and chosen to rise stronger on the other side. Whether racing down mountains or sharing his journey, he proves that sport has the power to heal, connect, and open doors to new possibilities. 

In the Media 

– Episode 10: Andre Barbieri | 2022 CAF Heroes of Sport
– Paralympic Snowboarder Andre Barbieri Competes in the Sport that Cost Him His Leg | Independent.com 

Support Athletes Rebuilding Through Sport 

Athletes like Andre Barbieri show that resilience and community can turn setbacks into powerful comebacks. CAF helps provide the training, equipment, and opportunities needed for athletes with physical disabilities to keep pursuing their goals. 

Join us in supporting more athletes like Andre as they discover new chapters in their sporting journey.