By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Former promising goalkeeper Adam Golebiewski lost both legs in a 2024 car crash caused by a drink driver in Macduff, Aberdeenshire. Now aged 20, he has discovered a new passion in para cross-country skiing and biathlon, setting his sights on the 2030 Paralympic Winter Games.
From football to rehabilitation
Golebiewski was 17 when the crash occurred. He spent three months at Woodend Hospital in Aberdeen, celebrated his 18th birthday during rehabilitation, and was fitted with prosthetics. The double amputation below the knee ended his dreams of a professional football career with junior side Deveronside.
Discovering para skiing
He now trains at the Nordic ski centre in Huntly, using a sit-ski with wheels that converts to skis on snow. With no prior experience, he has qualified for international para biathlon competitions, which combine cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Training trips to Colorado, Italy, and Germany have accelerated his progress.
Paralympic ambitions
Coach Simon Bate of Snowsport Scotland believes the 2030 Paralympic Winter Games are a realistic target, citing Golebiewski's maturity and work ethic. The athlete aims to compete in World Cup events in Finland and Sweden over the next six months.
Inspiration and legal outcome
Golebiewski hopes his story inspires others facing adversity. The drink driver, Arran Paterson, 19, was detained for 32 months after admitting to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, exceeding the alcohol limit, and driving without insurance. Two other teenage passengers were also seriously injured in the crash.