On September 1, 2007 the Mountain biking worlds suffered a tremendous tragedy. While competing in the Jeep King of the Mountain finale in Beaver Creek, Colorado, one of the greatest athletes the sport has known, Tara Llanes, suffered a horrific crash. Tara was rushed to Vail Valley Hospital, then airlifted to Denver Health Hospital a short time later. Following seven hours of surgery to the back and spinal cord, it was determined she had no feeling from the waist down.
Tara has been a phenomenal competitor throughout her 15-year professional career winning both silver and bronze at the World Championships, winning the X-Games, and appearing in countless magazines including Maxim. Her competitiveness, aggressive riding style, and never say die attitude have motivated competitors and spectators alike to dig a little deeper. Tara’s always been there for everyone around her. Whether it be offering advice and encouragement to younger racers, a strong sounding board for her family and friends, or lending a helping hand to anyone in need, she truly possesses the heart of a champion.
Tara went through years of rehab and has worked tirelessly to get her fitness and strength back. However, one thing she never lost was her competitiveness. She is back to training and more motivated than ever before with a goal of qualifying for London 2012. In between her training and working with her sponsors she keeps busy while helping to promote her Race for Tara Event. The event was initially started to help raise money for Tara’s ever growing medical costs. Now that Tara has resumed her life and can help others she puts those funds towards the research to help find a cure for paralysis. She is also working on a documentary to help people understand more about paralysis, the lives it affects, and the triumph that can come out of it. She truly believes that they will find a cure someday soon and when they do she’ll be back on her bike in no time!
www.racefortara.com
www.tarallanesroadtorecovery.com
Donate to the recovery of Tara Llanes HERE