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Speed Skater Michael Hubbs is an Inspiration on the Ice

Updated: Friday, April 20 2012, 02:42 PM CDT
With 85 Olympic medals, U.S. Speedskating is the most successful winter sport in the country, which also makes it one of the most competitive.  But short track skater Michael Hubbs is not intimidated by a challenge; he's been beating the odds his entire life.

"I don't feel like I'm handicapped.  I do have a couple of disadvantages," Hubbs told us via sign language, interpreted to KEYE TV by Sonja Smith.

Born deaf, Hubbs was raised in Dallas and graduated from Austin's Texas School for the Deaf.  Nearly two years ago, when the former inline speed skater brought his blades to the ice, his desire continued to burn.

"You can get up and wake up with a big smile on your face, because that's what you're going to do," said Hubbs.  "Once you find your passion, you will be happy for the rest of your life."

It's the off-season, so Hubbs was back in Austin to visit former teachers from TSD and continue to inspire young members of the Deaf community.  Because despite his disability, Hubbs hopes to carve out a legacy so deep, that no Zamboni could ever smooth it over.

"It doesn't matter if you can't hear," Hubbs told us.  "There are no excuses.  I really want them [young members of the Deaf community] to know that they can accomplish their goals no matter what challenges they've had.  This opportunity means a lot to me."

He may have been born deaf, but Hubbs' dream of competing in the Olympic Games rings loud and clear.

For more on Michael Hubbs, visit his website http://michaelwhubbs.com or Facebook fan page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Michael-Hubbs-Short-Track-Speed-Skater/169893076361578.
Speed Skater Michael Hubbs is an Inspiration on the Ice