Snowboarder Brenna Huckaby is gearing up for her third appearance at the Paralympic Games, set to take place in Milan, Italy, in March 2026. The athlete, who has already earned gold medals in both snowboard cross and banked slalom, is excited about representing her country once again. At a recent event hosted by Ralph Lauren, where she helped unveil the official uniforms for the upcoming Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Huckaby shared her competitive spirit and personal insights.
During the unveiling at Ralph Lauren’s headquarters, Huckaby expressed her enthusiasm for Olympic uniforms, stating, “Before we even get on the snow, I’m judging everybody.” This playful competitiveness extends to her observations of fellow athletes, as she noted, “Who looks the best? Who looks the coolest? Who represents their nation the best?” Wearing the closing-ceremony uniforms for Milan, which feature a navy sweater adorned with the American flag and white cargo pants, Huckaby is confident about her team’s chances.
Achievements and Advocacy
In her previous Paralympic appearances, Huckaby made a significant impact. At the 2018 PyeongChang Games, she took home gold medals in both snowboard cross and banked slalom. She continued her success at the 2022 Beijing Games, securing another gold in banked slalom and a bronze in snowboard cross. Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Huckaby is a passionate advocate for disabled athletes and emphasizes the importance of community within the competitive landscape.
“We are a strong community, and we’re all fighting for the same thing: an inclusive society,” Huckaby remarked. Despite the camaraderie, she acknowledged the rivalry that exists among athletes, noting, “We still talk smack; we still are genuine competitive athletes.” This blend of competition and support highlights the unique dynamics within the Paralympic community.
Personal Insights and Preparation
In a lighthearted moment, Huckaby revealed her unconventional method of storing her medals. “I keep my medals in my closet in some socks, and they’re just kind of tucked away,” she shared. This quirky habit allows her to easily grab her medals for appearances, demonstrating her down-to-earth personality.
On the topic of skin care, Huckaby, a cancer survivor, stressed the importance of protection from the elements. She exclusively uses La Roche-Posay products, particularly their sunscreen and a thick moisturizer, emphasizing that “it’s really important” for her skin care routine. “I love how they create things that cancer patients can use,” she added, highlighting her commitment to health and well-being.
Huckaby also mentioned a superstitious practice regarding her socks. “If I have a really good day in a pair of socks, I will rewear the socks until I have a bad day. Then the socks get washed — clean slate,” she explained, adding a personal touch to her competitive edge.
As she prepares for the upcoming games, Huckaby is optimistic about the future of the sport. “The more that we can hone in on our unique skill sets, I think we’re just going to explode as a sport,” she stated. She encourages viewers to appreciate the high-speed thrills and the inevitable falls that come with the sport, reminding them that athletes are just as human as their Olympic counterparts.
Brenna Huckaby’s journey reflects resilience and determination, as she not only competes at the highest level but also advocates for a more inclusive sporting world. With her sights set on Milan, she is poised to make her mark once again in the world of adaptive sports.
