Meet Frances Osorio Rivera.
Meet Frances Osorio Rivera.Frances thrives on adrenaline. She’s a kiteboarder, an Army veteran, and a self-described thrill-seeker.
When she lost a leg in a car accident, her doctors advised that she pursue a less demanding sport. But that didn’t happen. Because Frances isn’t one to shy away from a challenge.
Now, she has added another accomplishment to her resume. She recently represented the U.S. at the World Sailing Paralympic Development clinic on Lake Garda, Italy.
Frances first discovered kiteboarding as a teenager. She was already a longtime swimmer, boogie boarder, and skateboarder. When she saw kiteboarders boosting 30 feet in the air along the beach in her native Puerto Rico, she was immediately hooked.
A few years later, while serving as an Army medic, a car accident resulted in the amputation of Frances’ left leg. She spent years relearning everything – from walking to running to boarding.
Today, she works in the kiteboarding industry, continues to excel as an athlete, and volunteers to coach wounded veterans in watersports.
Plus, she’s training for the next Paralympic Games. That’s what took her to the training clinic in Italy. If sailing gets reinstated for LA2028, Frances will be ready!
Your support helps Para athletes like Frances succeed and achieve their sailing dreams. Thank you!
You can #BackTheBid to reinstate sailing in the LA2028 Paralympics!
World Sailing has outlined a series of strategic priorities to support growth and meet key criteria set by the International Paralympic Committee. Learn more and join the campaign below.
Also in the August 2022 Newsletter: