Park City mono-skier champion Muffy Davis, who won Saturday's giant slalom, was disgusted by the Spanish team's actions. But world champion Waddell sees it differently. It's flattering, in a backwards sort of way. If people are trying to cheat, it shows that disabled sports victories mean something. It's not just a participatory activity.
Racers have to earn their medals.
No one gets a hug for just finishing. Waddell, who won a Silver medal at the Sydney Paralympics in the 200 meters, said there were 4,000 summer Paralympic athletes, and the Spanish team numbered only about 25. It was a freak fall. My ski popped off, that's all I remember. I broke my back, some ribs, and my collarbone.