Paralympic Skier Honors Late Twin Brother with Silver Medal Win
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Patrick Halgren, a competitor in the Milan-Cortina Paralympics, expressed a profound connection to his late twin brother, Lucas Sven Halgren, following his silver medal-winning run in Para alpine skiing on Monday. "He made this happen for real. He is the ski god and he has blessed me with speed today," Halgren remarked, reflecting on the influence of his brother, who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident in 2016.
Lucas Sven’s untimely death occurred three years after Patrick himself was involved in a motorcycle accident that led to significant injuries and the amputation of most of his left leg. Since then, Patrick has channeled his experiences into his skiing, embodying a spirit of resilience.
In Cortina d’Ampezzo, Patrick has been seen spreading blue-and-yellow stickers that read “SvendIt,” a heartfelt nod to his mantra of "send-it" and a tribute to his brother, who was affectionately known as Sven. "He’s the reason I’m here. I’m just a vessel to cram love and combat hate down your throats," Patrick stated. He added, "It’s for my family. It’s for the people that have struggled."
Celebrating his achievement with his parents, Peter and Kathy, he acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the moment. "But also, it sucks not having Sven here, so ups and downs," said the 33-year-old, who marked his first Paralympic medal in his second appearance at the Games.
Patrick also reflected on his journey into Para alpine skiing, attributing it to his brother’s spirit guiding him post-accident. "I died myself. I was in a coma for a month. I died four times," he shared about the severity of his injuries. "Not many people do [understand this]."
With his signature red, white, and blue braids, Halgren has garnered attention not just for his athletic prowess but also for his showman spirit at the Games. During the podium ceremony, he humorously performed an air guitar solo using his crutch, describing the moment as "just another Monday" for him.
"I am a rock star," he declared, reflecting on his aspirations. "I always wanted to be this guy. I did both those sports, and now I am him." He emphasized the importance of vulnerability and embracing failures as part of life, encouraging others to find strength in their own journeys.
As he interacted with fellow competitors, Halgren received heartfelt congratulations from many, finishing closely behind Switzerland’s Robin Cuche in the men’s super-G standing. "Medals don’t mean anything to me. The love from all the people supporting me is what means anything to me," he said, acknowledging the community that has rallied around him.
Halgren’s journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, love, and the impact of personal loss. "You celebrate the victories the same as the defeats," he said, reflecting on his transformation over the past decade. "I could either roll over and die, or I could become the greatest Patrick Halgren on Earth."
Looking ahead, Halgren asserted, "I would like to dominate the Earth in every category with one leg."
