December 14th 2024.
As a young boy, Davy Zyw would often gaze out of his classroom window and catch a glimpse of the dry ski slope at Hillend in Edinburgh. After school, he would hop on a 15-minute bus ride to his grandmother's house, which was located at the base of the slope. It was here that he spent most of his youth and teenage years, perfecting his snowboarding skills on one particular jump. Looking back, Zyw fondly remembers how this slope taught him everything he knows about snowboarding.
Despite leaving school at the age of 16, Zyw never gave up on his dream of becoming a professional snowboarder. He spent several seasons in the Alps, working, competing, and living the snowboarder's dream. However, a serious knee injury forced him to put his dreams on hold and focus on his studies at university.
Now at 37 years old, Zyw has decided to chase his childhood dream once again. But this time, it's a completely different challenge. In February 2026, he hopes to become the first athlete with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) to compete at a Winter Paralympics, just eight years after his devastating diagnosis.
It all started with numbness in his hand while snowboarding in Whistler. What followed was a grueling nine-month period of tests and consultations, until he received the earth-shattering diagnosis in April 2018, at the young age of 30. Zyw recalls how tough it was for him, both physically and emotionally. He was fit, busy at work, and enjoying his life, but suddenly everything changed when he received the diagnosis. It was a difficult time for his family and loved ones, as he had to have some tough conversations about how he wanted to spend his remaining time.
Looking back, Zyw considers himself lucky. Not because his symptoms have worsened, but because he gained a newfound purpose and clarity on how he wanted to spend his precious time on this planet. He has already defied the odds by outliving the most positive prognosis and continues to push himself despite his diagnosis.
Cycling has become Zyw's main outlet, and he has completed several challenging rides, including the North Coast 500 and the notorious 'High Five' route in the Scottish Highlands. In total, he has raised over £1million for charity, with most of it going towards the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, started by former Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir, who passed away from MND two years ago.
Now, two weeks after being declared eligible to compete by the International Paralympic Committee, Zyw has picked up his snowboard and revived his childhood dream. He is determined to earn a spot at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Italy, but he knows it won't be easy. He still works part-time as a wine buyer, and at 37 years old, he will have to compete against younger, full-time para-athletes who live in snowier climates.
Funding is also a challenge for Zyw, as he will receive no support from Team GB unless he makes the team later this year. Despite the obstacles, Zyw's silver medal in Dubai and 12th place finish in Holland have given him the confidence that he can hold his own against the competition.
Zyw acknowledges that competing at an international level as a person with MND will be a huge challenge, but he loves the journey and the challenges that come with it. He draws inspiration from his wife and three-year-old son, as well as the incredible efforts of others, such as former rugby player Kevin Sinfield, who is raising money for MND in honor of his late friend Rob Burrow.
Cycling remains Zyw's main method of training, as the lack of snow makes it difficult for him to snowboard regularly. However, he continues to focus on maintaining his strength, function, and dexterity, as his condition will inevitably worsen over time.
Despite the uncertainty of his future, Zyw remains determined to achieve his goal of competing at the Winter Paralympics and bringing awareness to MND on a global stage. He hopes to inspire others with the condition and raise funds towards finding a cure one day. To support Zyw's journey, you can donate by clicking on the link provided.
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