Keith Gabel is an American para-snowboarder and Paralympic athlete. He was born on July 20th, 1984, in Ogden, Utah. Keith is known for his achievements in snowboarding and is recognized as one of the top Para Snowboarders in the world. He competes in the snowboard cross discipline, which involves racing down a course with various obstacles, including jumps and turns side by side with other athletes.

Keith's affinity for the snow and mountains began at an early age, his love for snowboarding was ignited, and he showed early promise as a talented rider. But life had more challenges in store for him than just navigating the slopes. In a fateful moment, Keith's life took a dramatic turn. An industrial accident left him with an amputated leg below the knee. For many, such an event would have marked the end of their snowboarding dreams, but for Keith, it was merely a detour on his path to greatness. With unwavering determination and the support of his family, Keith embarked on a remarkable journey of recovery. He rekindled his passion for snowboarding, this time as an adaptive athlete. Learning to ride with a prosthetic leg, Keith defied the odds and set his sights on the Paralympic Games.

Gabel gained significant recognition and acclaim for his performances at the Paralympic Games. He made his Paralympic debut at the 2014 Sochi Paralympics, where he won a bronze medal in snowboard cross. He continued to compete in subsequent Paralympic Games, including the 2018 PyeongChang Paralympics where he won a silver medal in snowboard cross and Beijing Paralympics.

His accolades include:
61 x World Cup medalist, 3 x Paralympian (2 x Medalist),
2 x XGames gold medalist, 2019 World Champion, 2022 Beijing Paralympic Games Flag Bearer

Keith Gabel's influence extends beyond his athletic achievements. He has become a prominent advocate for adaptive sports, tirelessly working to promote inclusivity and accessibility for athletes with disabilities. His dedication has contributed to the growth of para-snowboarding and inspired countless individuals to overcome challenges. This has made him a respected figure in the world of adaptive sports. Due to a combination of Keith’s advocacy achievements and leadership he was chosen by his peers and the entire US delegate as Flag Bearer for the 2022 Beijing Paralympic Games.

Keith Gabel's journey started with humble beginnings and is not just about medals and accolades; it's about proving that resilience, determination, and an unyielding spirit can triumph over adversity. His legacy is one of inspiration, showing that nothing is impossible when you have the courage to chase your dreams. Encountering true poverty including a life on the streets and homelessness and witnessing suicide at and early age he has and undeniable determination to succeed. His story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and has demonstrated that physical limitations are no match for the strength of the will. Through his achievements in para-snowboarding, advocacy for adaptive sports, and unwavering determination, Keith Gabel has left an indelible mark on the world of winter sports and serves as an inspiration to all who dare to dream, no matter the obstacles in their path.