Justin Weeks Returns to Motocross Racing
Immediately after Justin’s paralyzing crash in 2009, his friends and family began to rally support in order to give Justin both the mental motivation and financial resources necessary to recover from his injury. The motocross industry and community was quick to respond with donations and letters of support, letting Justin know that hope was not lost, and to “believe” (printed on Justin Weeks fundraising shirts) that he would walk, and even ride again.
“I’m especially thankful for all my supporters out there who have had my back this whole time. All the donations are a huge help—I wouldn’t be where I’m at today without them” says Justin.
With the support of friends and families from across the country, and the determination that very few people have the ability to harness, Justin began the difficult and demanding journey of recovering from a Level A paralysis (no feeling from the chest-down). Much quicker than expected, or even thought possible, Justin began regaining feeling in both his legs, and even after nearly 2 years since his accident, continues to make improvements every day.
When asked about his recovery, Justin said, “My left leg kept getting stronger and stronger, and then my right one [leg] started waking up to where I pretty much have 85% health on my left side and about 60% on my right side. I still use my chair here and there, but I use my arm crutches wherever I can.”
With his continued improvement, and encouragement from friends and family, Justin says that he is now ready to get back to motocross. He also said that despite the competitive nature of the event, Justin’s number one goal for the Extremity Games is to have fun and enjoy the sport that he loves.
When Extremity Games Motocross Director and adaptive racer Jim Wazny heard about Justin’s interest in racing again, he had this to say:
“Justin is an incredible person with lots of talent and tons of heart. We look forward to welcoming him to his first Extremity Games experience, and applaud his bravery and courage as a recovering athlete.”
If you would like to see more on Justin’s recovery and return to racing, please go to http://www.vurbmoto.com/blogs/2214/justin-weeks-preps-extremity-games/ for his full interview.
To find out more on Extremity Games, please visit http://www.extremitygames.com or http://bajaacres.com/events/extremity-games-baja-blast/.
About Extremity Games
Extremity Games, organized by Athletes with Disabilities Network, is an extreme sports event including competitions, instructional clinics and exhibitions for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference. Organized to raise awareness of the abilities of athletes with limb loss or limb difference to compete in extreme sports, Extremity Games allows participants to demonstrate skill, persistence and passion while competing for cash and other prizes. You can brace a limb, replace a limb, but There is No Replacement for the Competitive Spirit™. For more information, visit www.extremitygames.com
About Athletes with Disabilities Network
Extremity Games is organized by Athletes with Disabilities Network (ADN), whose mission is to promote a better quality of life by creating opportunities for people with physical disabilities. In addition to Extremity Games, ADN operates and organizes the Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame, the only Hall of Fame completely dedicated to honoring individuals with disabilities for sport and recreation achievement. Other programs include Mentoring and Outreach, and the Adaptive Sports Coalition. For more information, visit www.adnpage.org.
