Bio

Chris Vos: Paralympic Snowboarder from Noordbeemster

Chris Vos (born February 25, 1998, in Haarlem, Netherlands) is a Dutch Paralympic snowboarder and multiple world champion. He is renowned for his exceptional perseverance, unmatched performances on the slopes, and his inspiring life story. Vos grew up in Noordbeemster, a quiet village in the North Holland region, and has become one of the most successful para-snowboarders in the world.

An Unforgettable Childhood
At just 5 years old, Chris’s life changed drastically. A serious accident involving farm machinery caused a complicated leg injury, leaving his right leg permanently damaged. Doctors predicted he would likely never walk again, but Chris proved them wrong. Through numerous surgeries, intensive physical therapy, and incredible determination, he learned not only to walk again but also to snowboard. His motto, "Limits are meant to be pushed," became his guiding philosophy early on.

The Discovery of Snowboarding
Chris first encountered winter sports at the age of five. Despite his physical limitations, he discovered a deep passion for snowboarding. With the support of his parents and a relentless drive to overcome physical obstacles, Chris began developing his skills on the slopes. At the same time, he dreamed of another challenge: piloting an aircraft. What began as an ambition that seemed impossible would later prove that nothing was beyond his reach.

At twelve years old, he joined the Dutch national para-snowboard team and launched his professional career, though his love for flying always remained in the background.

Career Highlights
Chris Vos quickly became a dominant force in international para-snowboarding. He specializes in disciplines like boardercross and banked slalom, excelling in speed, precision, and technique.

2014 Paralympic Games:At just 15 years old, Chris represented the Netherlands at the Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi. Although he was young and gaining experience, his participation marked a historic milestone in his career and laid the foundation for his later successes. He was one of the youngest participants at the time.

World Champion: Chris earned multiple world titles in various disciplines. His first major breakthrough came at the 2015 World Championships, where he won gold.

2018 and 2022 Paralympic Games: Chris competed again at the Paralympic Winter Games in PyeongChang (2018) and Beijing (2022), winning medals and solidifying his status as one of the world’s best para-snowboarders.
European and World Cup Competitions: He has won numerous medals in World Cup events and remains a constant presence among the sport's elite.

A Dream Fulfilled: Becoming a Pilot
Since the age of five, Chris had dreamed of piloting an airplane. While many might view this as an unrealistic ambition due to his physical limitations, Chris refused to let obstacles hold him back. After years of determination and training, he achieved his dream by earning his pilot's license. Chris can now fly an aircraft, a feat that underscores his boundless potential alongside his athletic achievements. For Chris, flying is not only the fulfillment of a childhood dream but also a symbol of his ability to rise above any challenge.

An Inspiration to Many
Chris Vos is more than just an athlete; he is an inspiration to many, both within and beyond the sports world. His resilience, positive mindset, and ability to overcome challenges make him a role model. He actively works to motivate people with disabilities to push their limits and pursue their dreams. As an ambassador for the Disabled Sports Fund, he inspires young people to get active and believe in their own strength.

Personal Life and Future
In 2023, Chris married his fellow Paralympic snowboarder, Lisa Bunschoten. The athletic couple shares not only a passion for snowboarding but also a deeply inspiring personal bond. Their family grew in 2024 with the birth of their daughter, Jane Vos. The couple demonstrates that it is possible to combine a successful sports career with a warm and loving family life.

Beyond his role as a father and his athletic achievements, Chris continues to take on new challenges. Whether coaching, flying, or contributing to the growth of para-snowboarding, Chris remains committed to making an impact.

A Lasting Legacy
With his impressive career, his role as a family man, and the realization of dreams like flying, Chris Vos has cemented his place as an icon in the world of Paralympic sports. He proves that no challenge is too great if you have the courage to fight for it.