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Newly Disabled Learn Techniques From Paralympians

WINTER PARK, Colo. (CBS4)- The 36th annual Wells Fargo Ski Cup is under way through March 6 in Winter Park. Participants can race against world-class competitive disabled skiers and enjoy activities all weekend.

Paralympians come to the ski area from all around the world to ski. For the newly disabled, they get to learn from the best.

Both former paralympian Elitsa Storey and her student, Autum Reagan, lost a leg when they were about five years old. But on skis, they both like to go fast.

"She reminds me of myself when I was her age," said Storey. "She has no fear and just loves life."

Autum likes to ride the moguls.

"It's just, you go up in the air, jump up in the air, it's really fun," said Autum.

Her father believes the NSCD offers more than just ski instruction.

"They give her such great pointers and really help her along," said Chip Reagan. "It's amazing, like winning the lottery, to see her coming down the mountain and compete with other skiers in the country."

They also show skiers like Autum how their disability doesn't have to hold them back.

"You're just free to go wherever you want," said Autum.

The Wells Fargo Ski Cup benefits the National Sports Center For The Disabled. The NSCD helps disabled athletes participte in both summer and winter sports.

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