AJ Muss: From Olympic Snowboarder to Super Trofeo Sensation
Olympic snowboarder AJ Muss shifts from snow to racing, conquering challenges in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Evo2. His journey, marked by overcoming surgery and injuries, epitomizes resilience and passion.
AJ Muss, a name synonymous with fearless determination, has taken a leap from the snowy slopes to the racetrack. The former Olympic snowboarder and New Jersey native, now 26, is making waves in the North American Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo Evo2 Championship. His story, however, is more than just a transition from snow to asphalt; it's a tale of resilience and a brush with death that reshaped his entire outlook.
In 2014, a routine shoulder surgery went awry for Muss, leading to a life-threatening situation. "Legally, I did die and had to be revived," Muss recounts. Complications from the surgery led to a high altitude post-operative oedema, a condition exacerbated by a previously unknown hole in his heart. This perfect storm of medical emergencies almost cost Muss his life, but he emerged with a renewed perspective.
This near-death experience didn't deter Muss; it fueled his passion. "I live every day as if it's my last," he says, a mindset that transformed him from a good snowboarder to a great one, ultimately leading to representing the USA in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. Despite not achieving his desired result at the Olympics, Muss cherishes the experience, especially the honor of representing his country.
Post-Olympics, Muss faced a new challenge: recurring back injuries. This led to his retirement from professional snowboarding and a pivot to motorsport in 2020. "I broke my back a few times and thought racing would be less stressful on my body," Muss explains. He quickly adapted to his new sport, excelling in the TCR class of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge before moving to GT racing.
Muss's entry into the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America was nothing short of sensational, clinching his first race in the Am category. His success continued, and he finished the season fourth in the Am standings, despite missing the final races.
"The Super Trofeo car is an absolute monster," says Muss, describing the thrill of racing at the edge. Looking ahead, he aims to step up to the Pro-Am or Pro category next season.
AJ Muss's journey from Olympic snowboarder to Super Trofeo standout is a testament to his unyielding spirit. His story is not just about sports; it's about overcoming adversity and pursuing passion, no matter the arena. As he gears up for the next season, Muss is set to redefine what it means to be a modern-day daredevil in the world of motorsport.
