Danelle
Umstead
Explore Danelle's story below.
Sport
Para Alpine Skiing
Born
February 15, 1972
Hometown
Taos, NM
Olympic Games
2010, 2014, 2018
Vehicle
Tundra
Danelle's Paralympic Journey
Danelle was already growing up with low vision when, at 13, she was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. Years later, she was introduced to adaptive skiing. By then, she thought that by going blind she would have no future. But her competitive spirit ignited in 2006 when she joined an adaptive sports organization in Park City, Utah. It was there she knew where she belonged.
With her husband Rob as her guide and motivator, Danelle made her Paralympic debut in 2010 in Vancouver, where she earned bronze medals in the downhill and super combined competitions. Soon after her win, Danelle was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. To her, it then seemed like her biggest setback. But she didn’t give up, and she went on to compete in the 2014 Sochi Paralympic Games and took another bronze medal. She even competed in the PyeongChang Paralympic Games in 2018. Now, with Beijing around the corner, Danelle hopes to make her fourth appearance.
DANELLE'S TUNDRA
Rugged yet refined.
“Wally (the name Danelle gave her Tundra) is super handsome, and I love when I get inside and hear the roar of the engine. You wouldn’t believe a truck could be this comfortable and spacious.”
Haul quite a load.
“We have at least 14 pairs of skis, 12 pairs of ski poles, 4 large boot bags, 2 large duffle bags, and 2 large suitcases. We are able to put all this gear in the bed of our Tundra and still have room.”
Tundra Stats
8800
381
1530
With a powerful 5.7-liter V8 and overbuilt drivetrain, properly equipped 2021 Tundras can tow over 10,000 lbs. And, of course, each Tundra is assembled with pride in the great state of Texas. They say that true strength endures, and we’re here to prove it.
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