Gretsch's athletic prowess was evident early on. She won gold medals in biathlon and cross-country skiing at the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games in Pyeongchang. At the 2022 Games in Beijing, she secured three medals: one gold, one silver, and one bronze in biathlon.

Historic Milestones

In 2018, Gretsch became the first female athlete from the United States to win a gold medal in biathlon at the Paralympic Winter Games. She achieved this by winning the 6km sitting event in Pyeongchang. This milestone marked a significant achievement in her career.

Triathlon Success

Gretsch also excelled in triathlon. She was the first triathlete to win gold in the women's wheelchair category when the event debuted at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. Despite uncertainties about her future in triathlon post-Tokyo, she continues to train and compete with passion.

Training and Coaching

Gretsch trains at the US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, CO. Her national coach is Derick Williamson from the USA. Her training regimen reflects her dedication to maintaining peak performance across multiple sports.

Awards and Recognition

Gretsch's achievements have not gone unnoticed. She was shortlisted for the Best Female Athlete with Disability category at the Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly (ESPY) Awards in 2015 and 2018. In 2014, she was named Female Para Triathlete of the Year by USA Triathlon.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Gretsch aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Her commitment to continuous improvement and her love for sports drive her ambitions forward.

Inspirations and Philosophy

Gretsch draws inspiration from US Para cross-country skier, rower, and cyclist Oksana Masters. Her personal philosophy is to "try everything you can and look for something that you love." This mindset has guided her through various sports and challenges.

Other Activities

Apart from sports, Gretsch has worked as a technical support agent for a healthcare software company. In 2022, she established The Kendall Gretsch Fund for Adaptive Athletes to promote sports among children and adults with spina bifida in Illinois.

Kendall Gretsch's journey from university athlete to multi-sport Paralympic champion showcases her dedication and versatility. As she prepares for future competitions, her story continues to inspire many within and beyond the sports community.