Will Gadd, the renowned Canadian ice climber and paraglider pilot, was born on August 9, 1967, in Canada. Growing up in a family that was deeply passionate about outdoor adventures, Gadd was exposed to hiking, climbing, and mountain exploration at a young age. His love for adventure sports began when he discovered caving, also known as spelunking, as a child. By the age of 14, he was already kayaking, and at 16, he purchased his first climbing rope, marking the beginning of his journey as a skilled climber.
It wasn't long before Gadd found his true calling in the world of extreme sports. At 25, he took to the skies for the first time on a paraglider, a moment that would change his life forever. With unwavering determination and natural talent, Gadd quickly excelled in paragliding, eventually setting the world distance record with a remarkable flight of 423 km in Zapata, Texas.
Gadd's list of accomplishments is nothing short of extraordinary. In January 2015, he made headlines by becoming the first person to scale the ice-covered rock wall next to the iconic Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls. His impressive resume includes winning the Canadian National Sport-Climbing Championships four times and clinching three gold medals at the X Games. Gadd's fearless spirit and unparalleled skill have solidified his reputation as a true pioneer in the world of extreme sports.
Despite his daring pursuits, Gadd remains grounded in his personal life. He shares a loving partnership with his wife, Sarah Hueniken, and together, they are proud parents to two daughters. Gadd's family provides him with unwavering support and serves as a source of inspiration for his daring adventures.
In 2019, Gadd had the privilege of interviewing legendary mountain climber Reinhold Messner at the Banff Mountain Film Festival, showcasing his respect for the pioneers who came before him. As a trailblazer in the world of extreme sports, Gadd continues to push boundaries and inspire a new generation of thrill-seekers.
Will Gadd's remarkable journey from a young adventurer exploring caves to a world-record-holding paraglider pilot and ice climber is a testament to his unwavering passion for pushing the limits of human potential. His fearless spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence have cemented his status as a true legend in the world of extreme sports.