OnTrack - October / November 2017

October / November • Issue 10

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SOAPBOX Michael McEwan talks about disability sports on TV

WAKE BOAR DING

 YOUR DISABILITY SPORTS MAGAZINE

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ATTACK Make sure you’re choosing the right foods at the right times of day

Fabio Secci brings extreme water sports to other people with disabilities

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OLIVIA JOINS TEAM BRIT Olivia Jackson joins motorsport’s most inspirational racing team - Team BRIT

 INVICTUS GAMES  PARIS TO LA  POWERLIFTING  SWIMENGLAND 01_FrontCover.indd 2

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YOUR DISABILITY SPORTS MAGAZINE

 The team Acting Editor: Niki Tennant Staff Writer: Colette Carr, Rosalind Tulloch Designer: Stephen Flanagan Marketing: Sophie Scott Sales: Valerie Speers Sales: Julie Coleman Contributors: Ben Lewis, Azeem Amir, Mark Bullock, Joe Harman, Michael McEwan, SwimEngland

 Contact Call: 0141 465 2960 Fax: 0141 258 7783 Email: ros@2apublishing.co.uk Web: www.ontrackmagazine.co.uk Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Industrial Estate, Glasgow G46 8JT

Disclaimer

OnTrack Magazine is published by 2A Publishing Limited.

The views expressed in OnTrack Magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. Reproduction in part or in whole is strictly prohibited without the explicit written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2017 © 2A Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved. ISSN-2056-7146

Front cover image courtesy of TEAMBRIT

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hello A word from OnTrack acting editor, Niki Tennant

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his issue’s cover is graced by daring stuntwoman, former international model, Muay Thai fighter and motorcross racer Olivia Jackson.

After becoming injured while filming on the set of Hollywood blockbuster Resident Evil, the South African hasn’t let that dampen her spirit or sense of adventure as she now takes up a new challenge as part of a driving team.

Turn to page 25 to meet the alldisabled driving team Team Brit.

The OnTrack offices are already dusting off our berets and researching Californian coasts at the news that the 2024 Paralympics will be held in Paris and the 2028 games coming to us from LA. Tokyo might not yet have passed us, but we can still get excited. Find out what it means for the cities on page 12.

If you are looking for excitement and to become one with nature, look no further than page 36 and Fabio Secci’s adapted wakeboarding project. The London-based Italian has been helping other disabled people try wakeboarding and tells OnTrack all about F-yourlimits’ journey.

Not many people’s granny’s pick up three Commonwealth gold medals at the age of 52, and not

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many do so just months after suffering a stroke! Read Sam Devlin’s story of how powerlifting helped her cheat death and her remarkable turnaround from rehab to success in South Africa. Find her on page 14.

...this issue, we bring you handcycling, rowing, snowsports, swimming, the Superhero Series and the Invictus Games...

Also this issue, we bring you handcycling, rowing, snowsports, swimming, the Superhero Series and the Invictus Games to ensure there is something for everyone.

With editor Ros Tulloch returning from maternity leave, I am signing off now as acting editor. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to be at the helm for the past year and I look forward to following the news and views on its pages in the year ahead as I now pass the baton to Ros.

N i T OnTrack Magazine is out every two months and is available completely free of charge.

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Contents

October / November 32

21

Inside

07 THE INSIDE TRACK The latest sports news to hit the headlines

12 PARIS TO LA OnTrack celebrates the news of the 2024 Parisian Paralympics and the 2028 American adventure

14 STROKE OF LUCK Meet the Scottish granny who bounced back from stroke to lift a Commonwealth treble just four months later

SMARTTECH 4

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17 SNACK ATTACK Top tips for pre and post workout snacking

18 REDEFINING DISABILITY Former Royal Marine Lee Spencer’s world record bid

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21 SPORTS TECH The latest sports products and equipment to up your game

25 TEAM BRIT We meet the all-disabled driving team hoping for a speedy road to success

30 I AM INVICTUS We take a look back on the Games’ Canadian celebrations

32 ADAPTIVE SNOWSPORTS Learn how Disability Snowsport UK are making snowsports accessible to all

35 WAKE UP TO WAKEBOARDING

30

Fabio Secci from F-yourlimits is helping other disabled people hit the waves

38 WHEELING IN A WINTERWONDERLAND The Superhero Series returns with a new festive feel

41 AZEEM AMIR We catch up with OnTrack regular Azeem

42 THE CHALLENGER Robert Groves is going the distance

45 SOAPBOX Michael McEwan talks disability sport on the box (or lack of )

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47 BREAKING BARRIERS Pain in the back? Let Joe Harman get that for you

48 SWIMENGLAND SwimEngland’s top tips for dipping your toes in the water

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INSIDETRACK Keeping you up-to-date with what’s happening in the world of disability sport

Image © Nicki Fry, Appletree Photography

ALL ABOARD THE WHEELYBOAT IN MEMORY OF JAMES

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new wheelchair accessible powerboat has set sail on the River Hamble in Hampshire as charities The Wheelyboat Trust and the QE2 Activity Centre joined together to give people with mobility impairments access to waterborne activities.

Charles Reed, chairman of the English Federation of Disability Sport, launched the new Coulam V20 Wheelyboat before an audience of generous donors, who supported the fundraising activities, including Graham and Lorraine Male, parents of one of the crewmen of the foundered Cheeki Rafiki yacht. They raised almost £13,000 of funding towards the cost of the Wheelyboat and new kayaks for the Centre in memory of their son, James.

The new Coulam Wheelyboat V20 will supplement the centre’s boating activities for disabled people. The QE2 Activity Centre prides itself in being fully inclusive, regardless of ability, and the special features of the Wheelyboat will provide users with mobility impairments with complete independence as they explore downstream and learn how to drive and crew the powerboat.

Every year at the QE2 Activity Centre, thousands of people with additional needs are able to access the River Hamble on

kayaks, canoes, rafts and pontoon boat. The centre also offers multiple activities in the Hampshire Country Council 400-acre park, including archery, climbing, zip-wiring, bush-craft and orienteering.

The Coulam Wheelyboat V20 will enable the centre to train disabled people how to helm and crew a motor boat and it will substantially increase the number of people enjoying powerboating trips, as the craft can accommodate up to 10 adults, including six wheelchair users.

James’ dad, Graham Male, said: “At 22 years old, James achieved more than most would in a lifetime. James loved all types of outdoor sports, but he would have particularly loved seeing everyone on the JAMES WOULD water enjoying activities the way he did.

HAVE BEEN PROUD TO BE A PART OF THE QE2 ACTIVITY CENTRE AND OVERWHELMED BY ALL THE GOOD WORK IT ACHIEVES FOR DISABLED ADULTS AND CHILDREN.

“James would have been proud to be a part of the QE2 Activity Centre and overwhelmed by all the good work it achieves for disabled adults and children. It is an honour to be able to leave such a fantastic legacy for James.”

The Wheelyboat Trust relies on the support of individuals, companies and charitable organisations to fund its activities. Donations can be made at www.wheelyboats.org/donate.html.

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INSIDETRACK PARASPORT ATHLETE HONOURED WITH FELLOWSHIP

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nvictus Games and Paralympic medal winner and fundraiser David Henson MBE has been presented with a Fellowship by the University of Hertfordshire for his services to sport and the local community. He was conferred with the award, which recognises his outstanding achievements, at a recent ceremony at St Albans Abbey.

Dave Henson graduated from the University of Hertfordshire in 2007 and joined the British Army. Three years later he was deployed to Afghanistan as a Royal Engineer Search Advisor, with responsibility for IED Search Operations. In February 2011, Dave stood on an IED and lost both his legs. Thanks to the quick reactions of his team, he was on the operating table in the field hospital within 37 minutes. Remarkably, just eight weeks later, Dave was up and walking at half height, and at full height after 14 weeks.

Keeping you up-to-date with what’s happening in the world of disability sport

REST IS THE NEW SPORT

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est is the new sport. That’s the message from sports physiotherapist and author Jef Geys, whose new book promises to help readers to identify their fatigue, improve their recovery and decrease their biological cost.

‘Rest is the New Sport,’ available from bookshops and online from November 21, advises how to combine a perfect professional life and a healthy lifestyle.

It adopts a holistic approach to health and training that takes rest into account, as well as exercise and helps you to develop a routine that is best for you – not an ‘average’ person.

The book insists exercise, relaxation, sleep and proper nutrition do what they are meant to do: give you energy to live your life in full capacity and thrive.

During his rehabilitation, Dave discovered a new passion for sport which he combined with his determination not to be defeated, and competed in a series of open-water swimming events to raise funds for military charities. Exactly 10 months after the explosion, Dave received his running blades and returned to work the following year, having been promoted to Captain, and also participated in the Warrior Games, a multi-sport event organised by the US Department of Defense for wounded service personnel and veterans.

Just five years after losing his legs, Dave competed in the 100m and 200m sprints at the 2016 Paralympic Games, winning a bronze medal in the 200m. He is now setting his sights on Tokyo 2020.

Dave is now working on a PhD in Amputee Biomechanics. www.herts.ac.uk

DISABLED GOLFERS ARE IN THE SWING

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ore than 50 disabled golfers from 13 countries competed over four days at the Fairmont Hotel, St Andrews, for the Scottish Pan-Disability Open Golf Championship 2017.

Supported by Scottish Golf, the Provost of Fife and Sidey Limited, the event saw golfers from countries including Canada, the USA, Denmark, Sweden, France and Spain take on the challenges of the Torrance and Kittocks Golf Courses in Europe’s only 54-hole disabled golf event.

Event organiser James Gales thanked Open volunteers, who assisted with the scoring, refereeing and transport.

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WALKING FOOTBALL ON PATH TO SUCCESS

A Walking Football project in Aberdeen, which has welcomed over 80 new participants and clocked up an impressive 1,265 hours of activity, has recently celebrated one year in action.

The sessions, led by AFC Community Trust volunteers and hosted at Sport Aberdeen’s Beach Leisure Centre, are an all-inclusive alternative to football, allowing people of all ages and abilities to actively take part in the much-loved game.

The team, headed up by volunteers Stephen Harvey and Dougie Henderson played an impressive 51 weeks out of 52 and have upped session time from one hour to two hours to allow more players to attend. In addition to the popular Wednesday evening Walking Football sessions, a new Friday evening Ladies Walking Football session has been set up.

Regular Walking Football participant, Hazel Reid said: “I never thought I'd still be able to play football at 61. Thank you to Dougie and Stephen and all the others who keep the Wednesday footie going. It's so enjoyable and what a fantastic, encouraging bunch of folks you all are. Here's to another year of the same.”

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INSIDETRACK HEADER

YOGA TOWEL HELPS FIGHT BREAST CANCER

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ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and an opportunity to raise both awareness and financial support to fight this disease.

Chanmaya, a global yoga brand with its roots in Dubai, is promoting this important cause through the launch of an exclusive charity towel. 50% of its proceeds is going to Brest Friends in partnership with Al Jalila Foundation.

Brest Friends offers support to breast cancer patients by removing barriers such as limited or no health insurance, lack of transportation and childcare, or language and cultural differences.

Brest Friends alongside Al Jalila Foundation are focusing on promoting early detection of breast cancer, facilitating medical treatment and most importantly funding cancer research.

Chanmaya hopes not only to raise funds but to raise awareness of yoga as a way to support patients during their treatment journey.

The flamboyant pink design depicts a beautiful and defiant woman surrounded by butterflies; butterflies are a deep and powerful representation of life, endurance and hope.

Visit www.chanmaya.com to donate and purchase towels.

DJ STEVE AOKI PRODUCES MUSIC FOR FITNESS BRAND

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ootcamp-style programme Strong by Zumba® continues to revolutionise high intensity workouts through music, this time announcing its latest music collaboration with DJ and record producer, Steve Aoki.

The Grammy-nominated producer hit the recording studio to create exclusive beats for the music-led programme that focuses on syncing music to moves.

“It's no secret that I am a fitness freak. I'm always drawn to intense workouts that push me harder and Strong

by Zumba is doing this with music,” said Steve Aoki.

Strong by Zumba® is a one-hour group exercise class that combines body weight exercises with muscle conditioning, martial arts and plyometric training moves specifically designed and synced to original music. It emphasises music as the main motivator and allows you to burn more calories while toning abs, legs, arms, and glutes.

As a leader in creating original music and making the workout enjoyable for years, Zumba has created a completely new concept in the high intensity space where the beat acts as the ultimate motivator. www.strongbyzumba.com.

LION CLUBS’ BOOST FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS GB

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pecial Olympics has received an additional boost on the back of 2,600 learning disability athletes taking part at its most successful National Games in Sheffield recently, with Lions Clubs International renewing their Memorandum of Support.

For over 25 years, Lions Clubs International (MD105), which serves the British Isles, has proudly supported Special Olympics GB by giving donations, fundraising for athletes selected for international competitions and providing volunteers to help run key events. In that time, over £600,000 has been raised for the charity, in addition to the countless human hours of support in volunteering at Special Olympics events.

FROM BLIND MAN TO IRONMAN

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his is the remarkable true story told in a book of how Haseeb Ahmad overcame his blindness to set the world record for the fastest blind ironman triathlon.

Haseeb Ahmad started to lose his sight at the age of 10. He knew his eyesight was not normal, but the medical profession failed to diagnose the degenerative eye disease which left him completely blind by the age of 20.

Struggling to come to grips with what was happening to him, he got no help at school and home life proved tough too. After being registered blind following diagnosis at the age of 17, Haseeb faced his fair share of challenges. At the age of 38, he applied to join the GB Paratriathlon squad, medalling at national and international competitions and then breaking the world Blind Ironman record in October last year.

Hasseb said: “I want to give hope and inspire anyone who may be struggling with life’s challenges to never give up. Every time I have fallen in life, sometimes literally, I have got back up and kept running – and that is my message to everyone out there: keep on running!”

Available from www.troubador.co.uk, price £12.99.

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INSIDETRACK

Keeping you up-to-date with what’s happening in the world of disability sport

Image © JSH Pix

ELLIE SIMMONDS DIPS INTO THE CITY TO RAISE FUNDS FOR WET NOSES!

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ritish Paralympian swimming superstar Eleanor May ‘Ellie’ Simmonds OBE swapped the pool for The City as she took to the trading floor to help Battersea Dogs & Cats Home make a splash at BGC Partners’ Charity Day. Animal-lover Ellie, who has a rescue cat named Dipstick, took to the trading floor at the Canary Wharf office of BGC Partners for their annual Charity Day, raising much-needed funds for Battersea.

FIRST MINISTER OPENS £12M ‘FIRST OF ITS KIND’ SPORTS CENTRE

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cotland'First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon MSP, joined Paralympians, Commonwealth Games athletes, schools, clubs and community users to celebrate the official recent opening of the sportscotland National Sports Training Centre Inverclyde in Largs.

Following a £12million redevelopment, funded by sportscotland and the Scottish Government, Inverclyde is now a world-class residential sports training centre designed with inclusivity at its heart, making it the first of its kind in the UK. The development means that Inverclyde now caters for a wide range of indoor and outdoor sports and activities ranging from gymnastics to tennis, and hockey to pilates, and is available to everyone from school children to high performance athletes.

She was joined by a team of Battersea’s finest four-legged ambassadors - May the German shepherd puppy, Anya the chihuahua, Ripley the English cocker spaniel puppy, Lola the mongrel and Pac the pug - who instantly charmed all the celebrities taking part in the charity day and enjoyed closing a few deals of their own when it came to trading treats and tummy rubs.

BGC’s Charity Day is held each year to commemorate those who perished in the 9/11 World Trade Centre attacks in 2001. Celebrity ambassadors representing participating charities join licensed brokers on the trading floors to conduct transactions with BGC clients, and 100% of the revenues from the day are donated to those charities.

Five-time Paralympic Gold medallist Ellie said: “I’m so pleased to raise money for the incredible work that Battersea does to help dogs and cats in need. It’s amazing to see how the tragedy of 9/11 is being commemorated by such a fantastic event, the profits of which are shared between loads of great causes - such as Battersea who all really benefit from the money raised.” www.battersea.org.uk.

sportscotland undertook consultation with clubs, schools and governing bodies of sport, including working closely with Scottish Disability Sport, when devising the plans for the centre.

Inverclyde has a long history in delivering, not only for sport in Scotland, but internationally, as many of the world’s top football managers, including Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho, earned their coaching credentials during training courses at the centre.

Paralympian and World pairs silver medallist Scott McCowan (boccia) said: “It’s fantastic to have a facility like Inverclyde on our doorstep and it will make a huge difference to our preparations.

The attention to detail means we can focus fully on our training and not worry about the practicalities.

“Simple things like getting into bed or using the bathroom, which are normally a real challenge for us, have been made so much easier with the hoists in the bedrooms. It really is lifechanging for us.” www.sportscotland.org.uk

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PARIS Words by Colette Carr

While Tokyo 2020 is at the forefront of many of our favourite Paralympians minds, OnTrack Magazine is already dreaming of the Champs-Élysées and Sunset Boulevard after the announcement that the Paralympic Games would get the French Revolution treatment in 2024 and an All-American dream in 2028.

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he double announcement of the future games sees a three-game stint in Asia come to a close following the 2018 Winter Paralympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Tokyo 2020 and the 2022 winter games in Beijing and the 2024 games will mark a century since France last hosted the Olympics.

For the City of Love and the City of Angels hosting the games will mean two very different things with the hosts of the 2016 European Football Championships France looking to boost their Paralympic infrastructure and the US driving towards greater exposure and awareness of the movement.

Outlined in the bid for the Parisian games are the promises of a 100 per cent accessible eco-village, a compact Paralympic venue plan and the development of France’s first Paralympic youth training centre while Stateside the American delegates explain the infrastructure already in place will help them focus more on building a TV audience, gaining commercial support and growing the movement overall.

Outgoing IPC President Sir Philip Craven praised the vision displayed by Paris to put on the most successful games in history and LA’s commitment to a breakthrough for the movement across the pond, while his successor Andrew Parsons said: “Both Paris and LA presented tremendous integrated bids and what I

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like about each host city is that they offer different opportunities for the Paralympic Movement.

“Paris 2024 has a very strong desire to surpass London 2017 and stage the best Paralympic Games in history. Looking at what they presented here in Lima I really believe they can do it, however the benchmark will likely be raised by Tokyo in three years’ time.

“The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will undoubtedly lead to social transformation and most certainly will make France an even stronger and more competitive player in Paralympic sport, especially with the development of France’s first Paralympic youth training centre.

“With 11 years still to go until the LA 2028 Paralympics we have to go all out to ensure that these are the Games where the Paralympic Movement finally makes a breakthrough in the USA. This is a huge opportunity for us to engage the US market in terms of awareness, spectator numbers, TV viewership, commercial support and participation; it is an opportunity that we have to grasp with both hands.

“By giving more athletes and more countries the opportunity to participate in the Paralympic Games we can offer a greater boost to para sport in each and every country.”

And even though there is still the small

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Image © International Paralympic Committee

TO LA THE USA’S RELAY TEAM CELEBRATING AT IPC WORLD ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS 2015

matter of Tokyo to come, it’s never too soon to get excited over the future of para sport.

TEAM FRANCE AND PARIS 2024 Tokyo 2020’s successor Paris Olympics will undoubtedly celebrate 100 years since the games were held in the country, but 2024 will be the country’s debut outing of the Paralympics. At Rio, the French finished 12th with a total of 28 medals and nine golds, one gold up from their tally at London 2017. Sitting 7th in the all-time summer games table, the country’s 2024 bid victory will raise and improve the infrastructure in place with great emphasis on the introduction of the country’s first Paralympic youth centre.

Paris 2024 Bid Co-Chair, Tony Estanguet, said: “We are honoured and proud to have been chosen as Host City, we will enjoy the moment and begin our work to deliver everything we have set out in our bid. This is a special day.”

TEAM USA AND LOS ANGELES 2028 Despite leading the all-time summer games medal table, the United States still hasn’t been swept away by the Paralympic

fever that has engulfed many other countries. In Rio, Team USA scooped an impressive 115 medals with no less than 40 golds, reinforcing their status as high flyers in the Paralympic arena. But despite this, one of the tasks at hand for LA 2028 organisers is getting the public on board and invested in para sport. Like Paris 2024, 2028 will be the first time the country has hosted the Paralympic Games.

LA 2028 Chairman Casey Wasserman said: “This 11-year agreement with the IOC is the ultimate validation of LA 2028’s New Games for a New Era, and Los Angeles’ vision for the future. As a team and as a city, we could not be more excited to be entering into this longterm partnership with the Olympic and Paralympic movements, and with one of the great cities of the world, Paris. This will be an extraordinary collaboration that secures the future of the Movement for generations. Now LA 2028 has a golden opportunity, with four more years to prepare and a $2 billion contribution from the IOC, to redefine how hosting the Games can benefit host communities.”

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Image © Grant Horne: www.power-photo.co.uk

STROKE OF LUCK Words by Colette Carr

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ot many people bounce back from a stroke by lifting three Commonwealth gold medals just four months after an attack

strikes.

And not many, are grandmothers.

But that is exactly how events played out for 52-year-old Sam Devlin from Inverness, who, if she had not been powerlifting as she suffered a stroke, would have lost her life.

Following her stroke in May, doctors revealed the 120kg lifts she was lifting helped her cheat death by keeping the artery in her neck open due to the pressure, and by the beginning of June she learned she had been invited to the Commonwealth Powerlifting Championships in Potchefstroom, South Africa from her hospital ward.

The stroke left one side of her body paralysed, but with the offer on the table from Team Scotland, she was spurred on massively to push through her rehab programme.

“I was doing a powerlifting programme and just suddenly became unwell and one of the PTs asked me to lift an arm up straight.

“I thought I could feel myself lifting it up but I actually wasn’t and felt I needed to sit down. 

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POWERLIFTING Image © Grant Horne: www.power-photo.co.uk

“Next thing I knew I was in hospital getting lots of scans and hearing lots of people talk about strokes and I didn’t actually realise it was me they were talking about,” the mother of four told OnTrack.

With a road to recovery ahead of her, Sam found herself with a significant loss of cognitive function, putting lifting on the backburner.

“I spent six weeks in hospital and had a lot of cognitive rehab. First of all, it affected my right-hand side – I couldn’t move my arm or leg. I’m still going to rehab now and I think I’ll be going for a while.

“Lifting wasn’t a part of the rehab programme - it was more physio in the hospital in lifting my arm and my leg and get that movement again and the cognitive therapy which was three times a week.

“With my concentration now, I can’t drive and I can’t go back to work because I don’t have those processing skills anymore,” she added.

Having only been a novice in terms of time in the lifting game, Sam had tasted great success at local level, but the heights of the Commonwealth had never really crossed her mind until she received an invitation in the post to the hospital for the games.

“Lifting was just something I did, I wasn’t really conscious of it.

“While I was in hospital I got the letter about inviting me to the Commonwealth and I thought I was about to start squealing, because I never thought I’d get there so that just spurred me on.

“I didn’t get back to full fitness after the six-week programme, but I was managing it after 12 weeks, so I was managing it but it was hard.

“I was told at the beginning of June

SAMMY DEVLIN (RIGHT) ON THE PODIUM WITH HER GOLD MEDALS

about it so it’s all been a blur!”

Despite bouncing back from the stroke to board the plane and compete, the time spent at the contest didn’t come without its struggles.

With fatigue a major consequence of the attack in May, Sam and the dedicated members of Team Scotland had to carefully monitor and closely balance her levels of tiredness to ensure she was fighting fit for event times.

She said: “It was a very tiring time because I suffer fatigue so I had to have fatigue management before every event but I had the Scotland team with me to help me day by day.

“The day after I won the gold medals, I really wasn’t awake for about two days because it shattered me. Team Scotland were brilliant in helping me get to know what I could and couldn’t do cognitively and they really rallied round me,” she said as she heaped praise on the background staff.

But despite the road bumps along the way, the determined grandmother lifted a whopping three golds with 85kg in the squat, 50kg in the bench and

116kg deadlift, leaving her bitten by the bug and hungry for more.

“I’ve got the competition bug,” she laughed excitedly.

“Yesterday I started a 12-week programme for the Europeans, and I’m hoping to qualify for that in December.

“The weights that won me gold in South Africa weren’t my best but I knew that before that I wouldn’t be back to what I was lifting. But I still managed to get gold so I was delighted,” she smiled.

But even with December in the pipeline, Sam’s taking everything one step at a time.

“Everything is short term - it has to be, so December is my next goal and that’s what we’re looking to now.”

But with the buzz of South Africa fresh in her memory and the renewed sense of motivation and drive following the stroke, Sam isn’t taking anything for granted and pushing herself more than ever.

“I don’t think I would have ever went to the Commonwealth if I hadn’t had the stroke to be honest.

“I would’ve kept competing locally. My first competition was last November so I’ve only been powerlifting for a year and that day in November I set four Scottish records.

“I really don’t think I would have been confident enough to try for the Commonwealths if I hadn’t had the stroke to spur me on!”

magazine.co.uk

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| 15 03/10/2017 14:34

www.germany.travel

Discover Germany BarrierFree. Many cities and regions in Germany are able to provide some outstanding facilities for visitors who may need assistance, leaving them to concentrate on all the beauty that Germany has to offer without having to worry about everyday obstacles.

To discover more about accessible Germany visit: www.germany.travel/barrierfree

Dresden: Zwinger Palace Š TMGS S.Dittrich

_accessible

adverts_OnTr_octnov17.indd 16

03/10/2017 14:03

NUTRITION

Words by Ben Lewis, Pulsin director

SNACK ATTACK

Pre and post-workout foods

A body that isn’t getting the right fuel can’t perform at its best. That’s true whether you’re an elite athlete, an office worker or stay-at-home parent. Keeping your energy levels stable is important to help get you through your day. So how can you make sure you’re choosing the right foods at the right times of day?

Any restrictive diet can cause problems with nutrition if it’s not planned properly and nutrient sources aren’t suitably replaced with healthy alternatives. When it comes to staying fit on a vegan diet, the big challenge is protein.

Some vegans may struggle to hit the recommended 2g of protein per kg of bodyweight that many experts recommend to maximise muscle gain. A great vegan protein supplement is therefore crucial.

Pulsin pea and hemp proteins have the added benefit of being high in iron and zinc – micronutrients which may be lacking in a vegan diet and important in muscle metabolism and hormonal regulation.

New research is being released all the time around the benefits of vitamin D in various parts of the body, and the best-absorbed form to supplement is D3. It can be hard to get enough vitamin D in a vegan diet, but there are vegan vitamin D3 supplements on the market and it’s worth taking regularly, especially living in the UK. The optimum time for your postworkout meal is within 30 minutes after you finish training. Protein powders are convenient ways to pack protein into shakes and meals. Whey protein is delicious in a smoothie. Pea or rice protein is a better choice for hot foods, including soups, cookies or protein breads.

PRE-WORKOUT WORKOUT The time to eat before a workout can differ depending on the training you’re doing and how much time you have. Ideally, you’ll want a small carbohydrate-based snack like a fresh juice, banana, dried fruit and nuts, oatcakes, or low sugar snack bar that’s easy to digest about 30 minutes before any workout. This will give you a spike in energy levels during your workout, without overloading you with unnecessary calories and sugar.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

POST-WORKOUT POSTWORKOUT It’s all about protein! You’ll want to get as much protein into your body as quickly as possible to aid with the growth and repair of muscle. Lean proteins like turkey and chicken are perfect for this.

Carbs are also an essential part of any post-workout meal and play a key role in recovery. They replenish the muscle glycogen that you burned during your workout. For a quick fix, you’ll be looking for sports drinks containing dextrose, then follow up with a meal containing complex carbs and vegetables.

Ben Lewis

Ben Lewis is nutritional director and co-founder of Pulsin. He combined his knowledge of nutrition with a personal obsession for organic wholefoods to create awardwinning natural protein bars and powders. pulsin.co.uk

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| 17 03/10/2017 11:26

O N E MA N & HIS MISSIO N R ED EFI NI N G DI SAB I LI TY 18

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03/10/2017 11:25

I DON ’ T B ELI E V E AN YON E S H O U LD BE D EFIN ED BY S OM ET H IN G T H E Y CA N ’ T D O O R T H E I R LI M ITAT IONS . . .

Words by Niki Tennant

Lee Spencer survived 24 years as a Royal Marine and three operational tours of Afghanistan unscathed. Yet, when he stopped to help a stranded motorist on the M3 in Surrey in 2014, the off-duty Marine was hit by flying debris as he made his way to the stricken vehicle and his right leg was severed in the impact.

N

ow Dagenham-born Lee is on a personal mission to challenge the perceptions around disabilities.

He aims to become the world’s first physically disabled person to row solo and unsupported from continental Europe to continental America for a new Guinness World Record, leaving from Gibraltar on January 18 2018.

Lee will also attempt to beat the current non-disabled record of 96 days, 12 hours and 45 minutes, gaining a second Guinness World Record. Stroke by stroke, 3,500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, Lee will be challenging the definition of disability and its negative connotations starting in Gibraltar and concluding in Venezuela.

Just a year after his life changed dramatically, Lee set off to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean in 2015 in a team of four injured veterans, Row2Recovery. The team became the first British military all-amputee team of four to row an ocean. This was the beginning of Lee rediscovering who he was, refusing to be defined by disability.

“I don’t believe anyone should be defined by something they can’t do or their limitations. It’s about rediscovering who you are, not redefining who you are and being labelled,” insisted Lee.

supported and inspired me.”

During this feat of extraordinary physical and mental endurance, Lee will battle 30ft waves and 3,500 miles of unpredictable ocean in nothing more than a seven-metre long ocean rowing boat.

With the real prospect of experiencing sleep deprivation, extreme fatigue, sea-sickness, fear and solitude, Lee will be out of helicopter range and totally unsupported on the water.

Lee feels passionately about helping keep wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women at the forefront of people’s minds alongside challenging the embedded preconceptions that impact all those with disabilities.

The double Guinness World Record attempt will raise awareness and funds for the Royal Marines’ Charity and the Endeavour Fund, which supports wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans using sport and adventurous challenges as part of their recovery and rehabilitation. It is managed by The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry. www.leespencer.co.uk

“I feel passionately about raising awareness of this and challenging these preconceptions. Disabilities vary and they aren’t just physical either. I hope I am able to inspire all those who seek to rediscover themselves and raise awareness and funds for two very worthy charities who have

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| 19 03/10/2017 11:25

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03/10/2017 14:03

SMARTTECH

THE FUTURE OF

FITNESS With Bluetooth connectivity, the pelvic floor trainer uses motion sensors to give you real-time feedback and allows you to visualise your pelvic floor movements within the Elvie app

Every issue we bring you the best products on the market that help you achieve your fitness goals

Elvie Pelvic Floor Trainer Price: £169

Elvie’s pelvic floor trainer is an innovative gadget to that guides you through your exercises via your mobile device to strengthen your pelvic floor. Simple to use, the award-winning pelvic floor trainer can help you regain bladder control and confidence.

With Bluetooth connectivity, the pelvic floor trainer uses motion sensors to give you real-time feedback and allows you to visualise your pelvic floor movements within the Elvie app.

Float Sling

BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY

Price: from £199.99 This Float Sling is a flotation aid for use in hydrotherapy treatment. It is a pool sling designed to lower or raise the individual in and out of the water. The structure is maintained by the buoyant foam band on the water’s surface, enabling the individual to be floated on and off.

Available in five sizes, the Float Sling is suitable for both adults and children.

www.essentialaids.com

Kettler Trampoline Price: from £66.99

For use during rebound therapy, the Kettler Trampoline allows individuals to increase their movement and mobility.

The strong frame is made from tubular steel to ensure it is robust and longlasting. Six non-slip feet ensure safety for the user, as do the well-padded edges.

The fabric is made from polypropylene and the tension is provided by 32 springs.

Elvie’s pelvic floor trainer provides fast results. You can set tailored targets to help you build strength comfortably and effectively, as well as track your progress.

Made with the highest quality medical grade silicone, the device comes with an additonal cover that can be used to customise the size to ensure it can be fitted securely.

Packaged discreetly, when not in use the Elvie Trainer can be placed in its portable carry case that doubles as a wireless charger.

www.springchicken.co.uk

www.essentialaids.com

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| 21 03/10/2017 11:27

SMARTTECH

IN BRIEF

• Suitable for anyone and any wheelchair • Easy to set-up and use ready to go out of the box

Invictus Active Trainer

• Improve your fitness balance and pushing technique

èTHE FUTURE OF FITNESS

Price: from £799

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Designed specifically for wheelchair users, the Invictus Active Trainer improves your fitness, balance and technique enabling you to lose weight and achieve your fitness goals. Used in the home, gym or clinic, it is helping people worldwide.

www.invictusactive.com

Used in the home, gym or clinic, it is helping people worldwide

The Eggsercizer Price: from £10.99

The Eggsercizer is a simple device which helps develop hand strength. It is used in rehabilitation for injured or weak fingers, hands, wrists or forearms. Simply squeeze the resistive gel eggs and then release them and they spring back to their original shape.Regular use gradually but steadily re-establishes grip strength. The Eggsercizer can also be used to relieve stress. Made from synthetic rubber, they are not greasy and leave no residue.

Available in various levels of resistance, the Eggsercizer is a simple but effective hand rehab aid. Stroke survivors often find them beneficial in their recovery.

www.essentialaids.com

NON-GREASY

Airex Balance Pad Elite Price: £53.58

Support yourself whilst you exercise with the Airex® Balance Pad Elite. Helping you with balance and co-ordination, this closed-cell, ultra-soft foam pad compresses under your weight for a comfortable base. It’s also useful for injured or damaged knees and ankles as it allows you to practice weight bearing and weight shifting and encourages overall relaxation. Sanitised to protect against germs and fungi, it is a great, multi-use pad.

www.nrshealthcare.co.uk

Sanitised to protect against germs and fungi, it is a great, multi-use pad. magazine.co.uk

03/10/2017 11:27

SMARTTECH

Purepotions’ Natural Hair and Scalp Range Price: £18 each

A regular exercise routine means dashing in and out of the shower – and that can play havoc with your hair and scalp. Purepotions has launched an ultra-natural hair scalp range – a shampoo and conditioner that are truly mild and gentle but work beautifully to keep hair clean, shiny, in a health condition – naturally.

The effective hair care solution is free from harsh detergents, polluting additives, synthetic preservatives and potentially irritating petrochemicals.

Instead, it’s packed full of gloriously nourishing natural ingredients, including organic cold-pressed oils, herbal tinctures and essential oils. Unperfumed and made with hypoallergenic natural ingredients, including natural preservatives made from honeysuckle, they are super kind to skin and smell divine.

www.purepotions.co.uk

99

% .99 NATURAL

Using Innowalk products gives users the chance to experience assisted, guided and repetitive movement in an upright, weight-bearing position

Gymnic Classic Exercise Balls

UP TO

These Gymnic Classic Exercise Balls are used in therapy and exercise to improve coordination, balance, strength and flexibility. They provide an all-body workout, particularly toning abdominal and trunk muscle groups.

Made of inflatable vinyl, they are used in rehabilitation and therapy sessions as part of perceptual motor training.

They are often used in post-op therapy or rehabilitation following neurological injury. The Gymnic Classic Exercise Balls have a seamless, robust construction.

diameter

Price: from £17.99

Innowalk and Innowalk Pro

Price available on request Innowalk and Innowalk Pro, created by Made for Movement and distributed by VIDA from Leckey in the UK and Ireland, are motorised, 3-in-1 training devices which allow users to change their postural position by safely and comfortably transitioning from sitting, to standing, to moving. Using Innowalk products gives users the chance to experience assisted, guided and repetitive movement in an upright, weight-bearing position, as well as a leg pattern which is similar to normal gait. Crucially, an independent ability to stand or walk is not required to use Innowalk or Innowalk Pro. People with diagnoses such as cerebral palsy, various muscular diseases, syndromes and spina bifida may benefit greatly from incorporating the use of Innowalk products into their therapy programme. The Innowalk range also provides effective assistance in post-op rehabilitation e.g. after hip or SDR surgery.

info@vidaglobal.co.uk 028 9260 0750.

75kg CAPACITY

1.2m

www.essentialaids.com

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03/10/2017 14:37

THE ALL-NEW

SUZUKI SWIFT GREAT JUST GOT GREATER

NIL

ADVANCE PAYMENT

ACROSS THE SWIFT RANGE

Great news! The all-new Swift is now available on Nil Advance Payment across the range. So if you want to know more then why don’t you get in touch today and we’ll be happy to arrange a test drive. > Boosterjet turbocharged engine* > Lightweight and agile > Standard air conditioning and Bluetooth

> Smartphone link display audio* > Manual and automatic transmission options > SHVS mild hybrid system†

Find out more on 0800 804 8828 or at cars.suzuki.co.uk/motability

Model shown Swift 1.0 Boosterjet SZ5 petrol automatic from Nil Advance Payment. Swift range official fuel consumption figures in mpg (L/100km): Urban from 44.1 (6.4) to 58.8 (4.8), Extra Urban from 65.7 (4.3) to 76.3 (3.7), Combined from 56.5 (5.0) to 65.7 (4.3). Official CO 2 emissions from 114g/km to 97g/km. Fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. *SZ5 and SZ-T 2WD models only. †SZ5 manual models only. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and applications must be made with participating dealers between 1st October 2017 and 31st December 2017. Prices are correct at time of print, are subject to availability and may change.

adverts_OnTr_octnov17.indd 24

03/10/2017 14:04

TEAM BRIT

ROADSTER ROOKIES SEND HEARTS RACING A former international model, Muay Thai fighter, motocross racer and stunt woman has joined motorsport’s most inspirational racing team.

Words by Niki Tennant OLIVIA AND JAMES RECRUITED TO ALL-DISABLED MOTOR RACING TEAM

O

livia Jackson (36) from Buckinghamshire, has become one of the newest rookie drivers to join Team BRIT – a motor racing team looking to become the first ever alldisabled team to race in Le Mans.

She has been joined by fellow driver James Russell – a 35-year-old keen amateur rugby player and champion swimmer.

The team, which to date has consisted of drivers who are ex or serving military troops and who have each sustained serious injuries, has opened its doors to civilian disabled drivers and Olivia and James are among the first of these to join the team.

before becoming a stunt actress. She took part in shoots for publications such as Cosmopolitan and worked on major films including the Avengers 2, Guardians of the Galaxy and Mad Max Fury Road.

Olivia was also a competitive Muay Thai fighter and motocross racer.

Formerly from Cape Town in South Africa, Olivia enjoyed a highly successful career, working all over the world as a model

It was while working on a major film in September 2015 that she was involved in a horrific accident that changed her 

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03/10/2017 11:30

TEAM BRIT

life forever. Whilst riding a motorbike as part of a scene in Resident Evil, she collided with an oncoming camera crane that failed to lift in time.

She suffered severe injuries to her face and her spine was broken in multiple places. She was in a coma for three weeks and the effects of her injuries were life changing. Her spine was knocked askew, and her entire top left quarter was paralysed, including her diaphragm, which makes it difficult to move and causes imbalance.

Her ribs, scapula and collarbone fused in the wrong direction whilst she was in a coma, so her left top quarter is painfully twisted. Her left arm was completely paralysed and she eventually made the difficult decision to have it amputated.

Olivia is undergoing regular surgery and continues to receive treatment from an osteopath, acupuncturist and endocrinologist for phantom nerve pain.

She continues to participate in martial arts and having learned about Team BRIT and its aims, she took part in the team’s first ever Rookie Day in August, where she was assessed for her potential as a driver.

Olivia passed this stage and will now be working towards her required ARDS (Association of Racing Drivers School) licence which will enable her to race competitively.

The team has competed in the Fun Cup championship – the first stage of its motorsport journey towards Le Mans

I’M DELIGHTED TO BE PART OF TEAM BRIT. I REALLY LOVE THE OUTLOOK THE GUYS HAVE ABOUT BEING DISABLED - THEY DON’T LET ANYTHING STOP THEM...

Olivia Jackson, TeamBRIT

and recently completed ‘the Longest Race in the World’ at Circuit de Spa Francorchamps – a 25-hour endurance race.

The team has developed the world’s most advanced hand control technology to allow its drivers to compete on equal terms with able-bodied competitors.

These controls will be specially adapted for each driver, allowing drivers with varying disabilities, such as Olivia who has one arm, and James Russell – who wears a prosthetic leg - to race as part of the same team.

“I’m delighted to be part of Team BRIT,” enthused Olivia. “I really love the outlook the guys have about being disabled - they don’t let anything stop them, which is an ethos I definitely share. I’ve always loved racing and I think it’s such a great way for people that have gone through so much trauma to feel alive again and be in the moment.

“I haven’t let my disability stop me from being fit and active – it’s so important to keep doing as much as one can. Being fit makes a person feel great from the inside and gives you a more positive outlook on life. The challenge the team has set is huge and I’m excited to be part of this and to work towards changing the way people see disabled drivers.”

Father-of-two James, of Bristol, was born with a congenital defect to his right lower leg, missing the fibula bone and the remaining tibia being angulated. This resulted in him having a short lower leg and in incomplete ankle.

He underwent surgery at a year old to straighten the leg out. He also has a finger missing from his right hand and a malrotation of the bowels, again as a result of his congenital defect.

A technical author in the oil and gas industry, James has been a keen rugby player since school and has played for Clevedon Rugby Club for more than 20 years. His prosthetic leg does not hold him back, but he has to cover it with a bandage to protect other players.

He swam for the South-west at national swimming events in his younger years, winning many gold medals and achieving National Champion status in backstroke.

Although he doesn’t have much competitive driving experience, he has taken part in talent days hosted by Disability Sport England and was selected to train with the Bristol and GB rowing squad.

OLIVIA RELISHES THE POSITIVITY THE BRIT TEAM BRINGS TO PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

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Along with Olivia, James passed the Rookie Day and is working to achieve his ARDS licence which will enable him to race

magazine.co.uk

03/10/2017 11:30

TEAM BRIT

JAMES RUSSELL (LEFT) DOESN’T LET HIS DISABILITY HOLD HM BACK AS HE RACES AHEAD OF THE PACK

competitively.

Powerful partnerships are set up with corporate backers such as title sponsor Brit Insurance, and James will be working to engage with personal sponsors to progress his driving career.

James said: “I am thrilled to have become a part of the team. I have always loved cars and have always been a bit of a petrol-head, so when I saw information on Team BRIT on social media, I knew I just had to try and get involved.

“Having been born with a disability, I really don’t let it affect me as I have never known

anything different. There are times when I have to make adjustments, such as taking my leg off to go for a swim and only being able to drive automatic cars, but apart from that, it’s just a matter of shoving my leg on and getting on with it!

“I’ve played full contact able-bodied rugby for the last 23 years, for a team that are in a good league, so not much stops me. I’m all about stopping other people and seeing their reaction when they realise I only have one leg! Being a driver with Team BRIT will let me compete against able-bodied competitors in a similar way which is fantastic. I can’t wait to get out on the track.”

HAVING BEEN BORN WITH A DISABILITY, I REALLY DON’T LET IT AFFECT ME AS I HAVE NEVER KNOWN ANYTHING DIFFERENT.

James Russell, TeamBRIT

TEAM BRIT LOOKS AHEAD

I

n 2018, Team Brit will race in the GT4 series before progressing to GT3, taking it one step away from Le Mans.

The team aims to: • Rebuild confidence through competition and teamwork • Provide an opportunity for professional development within motorsport as a whole, by teaching drivers the business of sponsorship, revenue generation and vocational training • Enhance recovery and rehabilitation through intense and testing environments and through the adaptation of disability to different environments • Inspire members of the disabled community through the demonstration of what can be achieved in the face of adversity.

The project is determined to show military veterans, disabled people and the world that they can achieve goals they never thought they were capable of achieving. www.teambrit.co.uk

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03/10/2017 11:30

NEW DMO KADEENA COX FULL PAGE A4 + 5MM BLEED (POSABILITY)_Layout 1 10/07/2017 11:07 Page 1

everyday life it means that “InI can still continue to do things

“

throughout the day even when I am getting tired.

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©Copyright 2017 DM Orthotics Ltd. Patents and design regulations apply.

03/10/2017 14:04

TEAM BRIT

Image © Kingsize Photography

THE POWER IS IN YOUR HANDS

REVOLUTIONARY HAND CONTROLS SET TO TRANSFORM DISABILITY MOTORSPORT

T

eam BRIT, in its quest to become the first all-disabled team to compete in the Le Mans endurance race, is using hand control technology never before seen in the industry.

the business of motorsport.

The world’s most advanced hand control system, designed in conjunction with Team GB, involves an electronic throttle and clutch and electronic gear changing.

Although this is common in motorsport, this revolutionary system also introduces a cutting-edge device that allows braking electronically.

They found Marko Mlakar, a specialist technician from Slovenia who had pioneered an H-box shifter kit and was keen to take the project on. Within four months, Marko had taken the team’s specification and contributed towards developing the world’s most advanced hand controls that will work on any race car with a sequential gear box.

Team BRIT is a branch of the charity KartForce, a charity set up to inspire people with disabilities, PTSD and mental health issues by demonstrating what can be achieved through motorsport. It aims to show injured military personnel & disabled people that they can achieve what they never thought possible, that they can compete at the highest level, and to equip them with a wide range of personal and professional skills through understanding

Team BRIT founder Dave Player and team mechanic Al Locke had been searching to find a technician who could bring their ideas for the advanced system to life.

The controls have now been rigorously tested and were successfully used by the team during the 25-hour Fun Cup race at Circuit de Spa Francorchamps.

Marko has been involved in motorsport for 20 years, specialising in motorsport electronics and paddle shifting. He successfully developed a unique paddle shifting system for an H-pattern gearbox for his own racing car then began his own

business, MME Motorsport, which operates successfully all over the world.

Marko said: “The first time I talked to Dave I sensed the real passion behind his work and his team and it was only natural for me to join them. The hand controls became one of my favorite projects and it took us more than 500 hours to finish the prototype. Something that looked simple at the beginning, turned out to be far more challenging.

“After hours of hard work, we now have controls that have been designed with the ultimate goal of achieving faster lap times and allowing disabled people to compete on a completely level playing field with able bodied drivers.”

Dave Player has presented the hand controls to the Federation Internationale de L’automobile (FIA) and is now an expert on their international disability working group. The FIA hopes to introduce this technology to motorsport bodies across the world.

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03/10/2017 11:34

INVICTUS GAMES

Images © Getty Images

I AM INVICTUS Words by Colette Carr

N

o amount of popcorn stealing children, famous actresses or former US Presidents could distract from the awe-inspiring displays of sporting prowess as Prince Harry’s Invictus Games returned.

The third instalment of the games that serve injured, wounded and sick servicemen and women and veterans took to Toronto from 23-30 September with a bumper programme of 12 sports for the games’ second North American outing.

Archery, athletics, cycling, golf, indoor rowing, the Jaguar Land Rover driving challenge, powerlifting, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair tennis made up the packed schedule that saw over 550 athletes compete at an elite level available to them post war injury.

One British veteran who tasted sweet success in Canada was Lamin Manneh.

Manneh served in the Irish Guards for five years until becoming a triple amputee following a near-fatal injury in Afghanistan during 2010, but struck shot put gold with a throw of 7.53m and discuss

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silver 20.65m.

The 40-year-old Mancunian miraculously won his battle to live, and since has become a committed para-athlete having trained for a year to qualify for the Invictus Games 2017 at Toronto.

Also competing in the sitting volleyball, rowing and archery, the father of five initially was sprung into the public eye when he appeared on the BBC’s DIY-SOS ‘Homes for Veteran’s Special’, when he and his family were treated to an accessible home conversion. Following filming, he struck a bond with presenter Nick Knowles and built a relationship with games founder Prince Harry.

Moving forward Manneh competed at Los Angeles’ games last year picking up two bronzes in his debut outing.

The former soldier explained: “I am proud to have improved on my two Bronzes at the last Invictus Games by winning Gold and Silver here in Toronto. The Invictus spirit is different to other competitions as it helps all of us along the journey of recovery from where we were to where we want to be.

“There are always ups and downs in life. Whatever your issues you can always rebuild yourself and move forward.”

magazine.co.uk

03/10/2017 14:41

TO A LAND DOWN UNDER Toronto’s time may have only just come to an end, but Prince Harry and his team’s attention will quickly turn to next years’ festival of sport in Sydney.

The Games will take to the Southern hemisphere for the first time with Australia hosting next year.

From October 20-27, these Games will again bring

together over 500 competitors taking part from 17 nations. They will compete in ten different adaptive sports with events being held across Greater Sydney, including the Sydney Olympic Park and on and around Sydney Harbour.

This will be the Games in which the community embraces those that serve, and have served, and the family and friends that support them; it will inspire the many who on a daily basis battle to turn adversity into opportunity.

THE GAMES IN

NUMBERS

550 150 The amount of competitors that partook in the games

9

32

17

8

Nine venues across and around Toronto played host to Invictus 2017

THERE ARE ALWAYS UPS AND DOWNS IN LIFE. WHATEVER YOUR ISSUES YOU CAN ALWAYS REBUILD YOURSELF AND MOVE FORWARD.” Lamin Manneh

Host nation Canada is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year

The number of nations represented

The number of Canadian military bases and neighbouring communities that were involved in the first-ever Games rally

The games took place over eight days

90 12 The number of athletes competing for the UK

Twelve sports were on the Invictus programme

750,000

Around three quarters of a million people attended to support the games

magazine.co.uk

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| 31 03/10/2017 14:42

SNOWSPORT

Sports Focus

DISABILITY SNOWSPORT UK

SNOWSPORT IS ACCESSIBLE FOR PEOPLE OF ALL ABILITIES WHAT IS DISABILITY SNOWSPORT UK ALL ABOUT AND WHO IS IT FOR? Disability Snowsport UK is a charity with the aim to enable everybody, regardless of disability, to access and enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

Our mission statement is ‘to promote equality and opportunity for people with disabilities to take part in snowsports and to help improve their enjoyment and standard of performance at the level of their choice’. This means that we provide the instruction and equipment for people with any physical, sensory or cognitive disability to access snowsport at all levels

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from beginner right through to elite athlete.

WHEN WAS DISABILITY SNOWSPORT FOUNDED AND HOW DID IT COME ABOUT? This year, 2017, is Disability Snowsport UK’s 40th anniversary. The charity has changed and grown massively since its beginning in the 1970s. At its inception, the vision of the founder, Dr David Morris, was that the movements of skiing could be beneficial for the co-ordination, balance and self-awareness of young people with cerebral palsy, and despite initial resistance a pilot programme began with a very

small group. As the programme grew, it was realised that the benefits of skiing would transfer not only to people with other physical disabilities, but also to those with sensory and learning disabilities. In the 2000s, a number of different charities with the shared aim of enabling people with disabilities to access snowsports amalgamated to become Disability Snowsport UK. WHERE ARE YOUR CENTRES? Disability Snowsport UK has ski schools operating all year round at some of the indoor snow centres in the UK: Snow Factor near Glasgow, Chill Factore near

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SNOWSPORT

Manchester, The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead and the SnowDome in Tamworth, near Birmingham. We also deliver lessons all year at Midlothian Snowsports Centre which is a dry ski slope near Edinburgh. Our main office is near Aviemore in the Cairngorms, so in winter we teach lessons on Cairngorm mountain and at Glenmore dry slope all year round.

HOW CAN A PERSON GET INVOLVED AND BECOME A MEMBER? Anybody can book a lesson or block of lessons with DSUK. Membership is not essential for lessons, although it does offer a discount not only on lessons but also in a number of retail outlets. Contact details for booking lessons are below, and more information on the ski schools in local areas is available on our website: wwww.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk.

WHAT CAN A FIRST-TIME VISITOR EXPECT? On your first lesson, once you are all wrapped up in your warm ski gear, you will meet your instructor at the DSUK meeting point at the centre. They will gather lots of information and discuss your goals and expectations. They will help you get your equipment set up and ready, whether this is a sitski, regular skis and boots, or maybe outriggers to help with balance or maybe a headset for communication.

You will then head out onto the slope where you will start learning to ski, with the instructor making any adaptations you need to let you learn. On your first lesson you might just be getting used to the new environment and equipment, but it won’t be long before you have learnt to stop and turn and can start heading higher up the slope.

WHAT TRIPS ARE ORGANISED AS PART OF YOUR ACTIVITY WEEKS PROGRAMME 2018?

Trips overseas to enjoy snowsports in the mountains and the social aspects of a ski holiday are a central part of DSUK’s offering. We visit different resorts every year with groups of skiers, instructors and volunteers. In 2018 there are trips to Niederau in Austria, Arinsal in Andorra, Pila in Italy and Big Bear in the USA. On these trips, there will be a mix of people who have never skied before, have only skied indoors, or have been skiing in the mountains for years, but everybody will

SNOWSPORT GIVES PEOPLE A CHANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN AN ACTIVITY AS EQUALS. EVERYBODY FALLS OVER WHEN THEY ARE LEARNING, WHETHER THEY HAVE A DISABILITY OR NOT. have a shared goal of having fun, learning, and enjoying all the social aspects of a ski trip to the mountains.

IS TRAINING/RACING JUST FOR FUN OR IS IT A SPRINGBOARD TO GREATER THINGS FOR AMBITIOUS COMPETITORS? DSUK organise Access for All races which enable everybody to give racing a go in a relaxed environment. In these events disabled and able-bodied competitors race alongside each other, with no racing experience required. British Parasnowsport have a progression pathway for developing athletes right through to elite level athletes who compete in World Cup events and the Winter Paralympics. At Sochi 2014, British Parasnowsport athletes won five medals (one gold, three silver and one bronze), and are hoping to improve on this haul at PyeongChang 2018.

AS WELL AS INCREASED LEVELS OF FITNESS, IN WHICH OTHER WAYS DO MEMBERS BENEFIT FROM BEING INVOLVED? Skiing and snowboarding are very sociable activities. On lessons and activity weeks, participants have the opportunity to interact with instructors, volunteers and

other slope users. Increased self esteem, confidence and social inclusion are huge benefits.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE DISABILITY SNOWSPORT UK’S CULTURE, VALUES AND ETHOS? Snowsport gives people a chance to participate in an activity as equals.

Everybody falls over when they are learning, whether they have a disability or not. For lots of people with disabilities, finding activities that they can access alongside friends or family together is a challenge, but snowsports is something that can be shared. DSUK wants everybody to be able to enjoy snowsports and the mountains as much as we do, and we have the equipment and expertise to enable everybody to do so.

Lessons can be booked by calling DSUK’s main office on 08455219338 or emailing lessons@disabilitysnowsport.org.uk.

For more information on activity weeks, volunteering or other general enquiries, please contact admin@disabilitysnowsport.org.uk.

Contact details for local centres can be found on the DSUK website: www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk

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03/10/2017 14:04

W A K E UP TO

WAKE BOAR Words by Colette Carr

F

G N I D o i Secci b a F

or fearless Fabio Secci of F-yourlimits, bringing extreme water sports to other people with disabilities is as big a passion for him as his love for the water itself is.

and approach to life and last summer I decided to use my background in digital marketing to try to spread my message to “live and love a limitless life”,” Fabio told OnTrack.

The 35-year-old Italian is looking to revolutionise the way water sports are offered to people in London, striving to help people “live and love a limitless life”.

“So the project started last June with a long phase of communication and different meetings to find partners and collaborators.

“F-yourlimits aims to introduce adaptive water sports like wakeboarding and surfing to people, providing sessions or camp days run out of our base at Wakeplus at Taplow Lake or Wakeupdockland in East London but the goal is to expand our locations to allow more people to try this amazing sport,” the determined wakeboarder explained.

“I spent most nights working on the website and visual imagery with the support of Alessandro Murgia, a friend in Sardinia who helped out with the art direction.

“I have always been trying to share my story

“Once that had been finished, I began to look into wakeparks to host the sessions and very quickly I found Wakeplus and Wakeupdockland that currently are providing the structure, equipment and coaching support for the sessions and I also got some funding support from organisations including

ArcticOne and Alps Italy to help pay some costs for the events,” he explained.

Starting just last year, Fabio has already seen the project grow from strength to strength, drawing in numerous glowing reviews from those who have taken to the waves already.

Fabio, who was born with a shortened left leg enjoys an undeniable and unwavering zest for life, the water and extreme sports.

“I started skateboarding a few years ago then around two years ago I started surfing and wakeboarding, before that my focus was on doing stand-up paddling.

“Most recently I have been training harder to compete at a higher level, and thanks to Alps Italy and Porzio Group my performance with the prosthetic has improved quite a lot.

“Both sports allow me to enjoy the water vibes 

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FABIO SECC BOTH SPORTS ALLOW ME TO ENJOY THE WATER VIBES, MEET NEW PEOPLE AND SHARE MY PASSION FOR THE SPORT. meet new people and share my passion for the sport.

“Last year I attended the Surfing World Championship and it opened other doors to expand my network and passion to share my story and lifestyle,” he said.

With an exceptionally vivid and visual online and social media presence, the water sports enthusiast’s skills jump off the screen as fast paced, slickly edited videos capture the roughness of the water, the simple adaptations put in place to allow anyone to get involved and the enjoyment and support that visitors get when hitting the waves, something that Fabio knows has helped create a buzz around the project.

“I have been always trying to spread F-yourlimits through marketing communications and word of mouth, but much of the growth has come from people who loved it and the experience in the water,” the Italian explained.

“I believe telling a story of my challenges and different adventures through videos, photos and articles helped to grow the awareness of it and make it a more appealing project,” he shared, nodding to his numerous videos showcasing his skills.

But the company is still in its infancy, and like Fabio’s mantra for life, the possibilities – and boundaries - are limitless.

enjoy the water sport, but to learn a bit more about different cultures and enjoy the Mediterranean food and weather.

“On top of that, in the next few months we are trying to arrange some competitions for the end of the year and find new partners and sponsors to allow the project to grow up and expand and finally, but most importantly, we want to find more people to join this sport and create an adaptive wakeboarding crew,” Fabio enthused.

And not content with just a busy F-yourlimits schedule, Fabio has set his sights on furthering his own sporting prowess competitively.

“Personally, my own aims for 2018 are to compete more in both surfing and wakeboarding, represent Italy at the ISA World Championship and attend the European Wakeboarding competition in Italy,” he said.

All roads lead back to Italy.

“There are different phases to this project going forward,” he excitedly says.

“Currently, the main focus is to organise the events and camp days for the next year, expanding outwith the UK! In fact, the goal is trying to bring people from UK to my home in Sardinia where I am currently trying to grow wakeboarding.

This way, people will not only be able to

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CCI

WAKEBOARDING

WHAT IS ADAPTED WAKE BOARDING?

Similar to snowboarding, wakeboarders ride the water as a snowboarder would take to the snow, and are pulled by a cable usually towed by a motorboat at high speeds.

Wakeboarders can build to advanced levels of air tricks while enjoying the exhilarating rush.

ABOUT FABIO

Hailing from Sardinia in Italy, 35-year-old Fabio Secci was born with a limb reduction of 17cm to his left leg. Dare devil adrenaline junkie Fabio is now based in London and travels the UK chasing waves having begun using a prosthetic at a young age to push his own limits. An accomplished surfer and wakeboarder, Fabio is now helping other people push their limits with his company F-yourlimits.

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Words by Colette Carr

WHEELING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND

YOUR CHANCE TO ENTER THE NPOWER WINTER WONDERWHEELS

D

ig out your wooly hats, sling on your scarf and get ready to brave the cold because inclusive sport event Superhero Series is getting a winter wonderland makeover to get you both festive and active. ‘npower Winter Wonderwheels’ invites ‘Everyday Superheroes’ to enter a competition for a place on one of over 20 celebrity team captains’ teams.

Following on from the success of the inaugural event, the Superhero Tri in August which saw 1700 participants take part in the triathlon, ‘npower Winter Wonderwheels’ sees the Series return to Dorney Lake in Windsor on December 3.

The first 10 celebrity team captains to have been signed up and readied to take on the challenge are: Superhero Series

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ambassador and eight-time Paralympic gold medallist Sophie Christiansen, The Last Leg and Paralympic presenter Adam Hills, Rio 2016 and Invictus Games presenter JJ Chalmers, Paralympic gold medallist Anne Dickins, Paralympic medallist and inaugural Invictus Games team captain David Henson, Rio gold medallist Megan Giglia, two-time European wheelchair basketball champion and C4 sports reporter Jordan JarrettBryan, Help for Heroes ambassador and World Championships surfing medallist Chris Jones, Paralympic medallist Susie Rodgers and European and World paratriathlon medallist Lizzie Tench.

Each captain is on the hunt for four teammates to join their ranks for the ‘Celebrity Wonderwheels Relay’ that will see each member undertake 1k of the 5k

relay circling Paralympic venue Dorney Lake that will transform into a fitting and festive winter grotto like wonderland.

Team members are invited to compete any which way they please, whether that be run, walk, cycle, scoot, push, be pushed or by any other means.

Competition for a coveted spot on the fantastic celebrity teams will be tight, but fear not, the inclusive event is just that.

Even if you don’t find yourself under the leadership of Adam Hills or Sophie Christiansen, there are three solo and team lakeside events for Everyday Superheroes to take their pick from, personifying the ‘everything goes’ philosophy of the Series.

With no time limit to worry about and all types of gadgets and gismos welcome on the course from day chairs, handcycles,

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SUPERHERO SERIES

HOW TO ENTER

If you think you have what it takes and deserve a place on a celebrity team, visit superheroseries.co.uk/ celebrity-wonderwheels-relay to share your story and explain why your name should be on their teamline. To find out more about Superhero Series or to register as a solo or team competitor visit www.superheroseries.co.uk.

walking frames and trikes to tandems, race runners, blades and bikes, it will be the most inclusive sporting event of the festive period. Take on the Lakeside Dash (1k), Once Round the Lake (5k) or Twice Round the Lake (10k).

Superheroes and their sidekicks will also be treated to a spectacular Christmas bonanza to help get them in the Christmas spirit and warm them up in the crisp December weather.

While all 10 captains were signed up for the inaugural event in the summer, not all of them actually made it to the starting line, with The Last Leg presenter Adam Hills being side-lined by a devastating visa issue. But despite admitting he was gutted to not be present at the hands of the hiccup in August, the Australian funny man is out to make up for lost time and is ready to finally make his Superhero debut.

ABOUT THE SUPERHERO SERIES Superhero Series lets people with disabilities call the shots and throws out restrictive equipment rules and regulations to give total beginners through to elite athletes the chance to find their inner superpower and achieve an inspirational goal. The unique challenges are designed to encourage the Everyday Superhero to unite with family and friends to do as much or as little as they wish, with as much or as little support as they need. All solo

entrants and at least one team member must consider themselves to have a disability to enter – physical, intellectual, sensory or invisible and Superhero Series is the only mass-participation sports series dedicated to the UK’s 12.9 million people with disabilities – the Everyday Superhero - plus their friends and family. The series is founded by Paralympian Sophia Warner, who has been involved in disability sport for 25 years.

FIGHTING TALK IS ALREADY WELL UNDERWAY FROM HILLS WHOSE FIERY COMPETITIVE STREAK WILL HEAT UP THE CONTEST IN THE CHILLY CONDITIONS. Winter Wonderwheels and letting all that training go to waste. I can’t wait to unite with my competition winning teammates and show the Paralympians a thing or two about competing!”

He said: “I was all primed and ready for Superhero Tri, but had to leave the country last-minute to renew my visa,” he explains.

With the fighting talk already well underway from Hills whose fiery competitive streak will heat up the contest in the chilly conditions, one competitor who is keeping professional and not rising to Hills’ challenge is Series ambassador Sophie Christiansen.

“I was gutted! There’s no way I’m missing

“I love this series because even though I’m

an elite athlete I also want to do sport for fun,” the para-equestrian legend shared.

“I don’t know of any other massparticipation event where I can use my trike alongside my able-bodied friends. As well as the taking part in the celebrity relay I’ll be wearing my golden cape for Twice Round the Lake 10k with my boyfriend Peter.”

So, get ready to don your Santa hats, masks, capes and superhero tights and pants and warm gloves and get ready for a winter warmer to remember.

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03/10/2017 14:04

PRIZE GUY Words by Azeem Amir

AZEEM TALKS ABOUT HAMBURG, LINK4LIFE AND UNI LIFE

M

y recent trip to Hamburg to play in a four-day European tournament was fraught with mishaps, from a cancelled flight, to a hostel with no towels, to a minor road traffic accident, to arriving with no euros in a district with no cash dispensers - but the result more than compensated for the hiccups that we took in our stride.

I was part of the European All Stars – a team comprising six English and three German players. The day after arrival, we won both games and went on to win the semi-final.

Having played teams from all over Europe, we met top-notch German side, The Young Boys. The opposition was tough, but we won 1-0 and lifted the tournament trophy.

It was an enjoyable experience to not only play with foreign players but to make good friends with them too. It was also a pleasure to work with all the coaches and goal keepers who have been there and done it and are pushing the younger lads to get good experience.

The day after I got back was my first day at uni. Louise, the support worker who will help me throughout this year is really enthusiastic and understands that unlike other students who are supported, I have so much else going on and need someone who can keep up.

The degree I’m doing covers everything

from business to economics, accounting and sports development. German is my language of choice. It helps that Louise is fluent in German and I’m learning through talking and listening.

During the Germany trip, I picked up a lot of technical tips to work on for the next tournament – the Paris Masters in early December. The National League starts at the end of October and it will be good to play in England against local teams.

I have been asked to attend my first England senior camp in October at St George’s Park and will be part of the England squad training. They’ll be putting me through my paces and I’m really looking forward to seeing where I’m up to in comparison with everyone else.

I was nominated recently in my local borough in two awards categories: Sports Achiever of the Year and Disabled Sports

Achiever of the Year. Amazingly, I won the overall Sports Achiever prize, which I was honoured to accept from former Coronation Street actress, Sue Devaney.

At the ceremony, I was asked to give a speech about the effect the initiative Link4Life has on the borough. Sue asked if I was nervous, but I knew I’d be able to speak fine because I’m so passionate about how they enhance the lives of young people and young people with disabilities.

I am currently going through a year-long talented athletes’ scholarship scheme – the first step on an Olympic pathway programme. While doing my degree at the University of Salford, I will be working at Manchester Met University alongside sportspeople who are going up for England and GB. My aim now is to break into the England squad. I don’t want to be someone who only talks about it – I want to smash it and that’s my target for the year ahead.

I HAVE BEEN TRAINING EVERY DAY IN PREPARATION FOR THE NEW SEASON AND IT IS GOING REALLY WELL COMPARED TO THIS TIME LAST YEAR. magazine.co.uk

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ROBERT GROVES - HAND CYCLIST Rob Groves is a selfproclaimed endurance handcycling adventurer, taking on challenge after challenge to test his physical and mental strength to its limits. Each trial he takes on spreads its own unique message and he uses them to raise much needed funds for various charities across the UK. We find out how Rob was struck by the endurance bug and what challenges he has on the cards for the future.

Words by Ros Tulloch

THE CHALLENGER ROBERT GROVES

11

years ago I became paralysed following an injury to my spine. For a few years I was in a really dark place, I was very inactive. I used to have my own health club, I had been a chef for 17 years, qualified in nutrition – I was a very fit person, into body building and fitness.

When this happened my world just fell apart.”

After struggling with coming to terms with his disability, one of Rob’s friends

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decided to take him to London to see the Paralympics in 2012. They watched a handcycling race and Rob told OnTrack that that was the moment that changed everything.

“I watched Karen Darke cross the finish line in her handcycle and a light just went off in my head and I thought ‘I can do that’.”

Rob then set about getting his first handcycle which was delivered in 2014 and since then he has never looked back.

And this marked the beginning of Rob’s ambitious challenges.

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ROBERT GROVES - HAND CYCLIST

ABOUT ROB GROVES  AGE: 61  PROFESSION: Endurance handcycling adventurer  LATEST CHALLENGE: 2,500 miles over 27 days FACT recent event and it saw him take on a 2500mile trek around the coastline of England and Wales, highlighting the very real issues of pollution and climate change affecting our seas and coastlines on his journey. He also aimed to inspire disabled youngsters and show them what can be achieved when you put your mind to it, he even had a young eight-year-old boy who was recently disabled join him for the last 10 miles of the journey, along with a few other riders.

“Aspire had given me a grant towards the bike so I felt that I needed to do something for them to repay them for helping me out, because the bike was quite expensive. So, I did my first handcycle ride from Scotland to London for Children in Need and Aspire and raised just over £7,000 for Aspire and just over £6,000 for Children in Need. I did that ride in five days.

“I then did a 24-hour endurance race to qualify for a race across America in 2018. I have also done various charity rides with Davina McCall for other charities and then I thought I needed to do something bigger and better that hasn’t been done. So, I decided I was going to cycle round the coastline of England.”

The Coastline Challenge is Rob’s most

Rob has now set his sights on an even bigger adventure, Quest 4 Hope, an initiative that he is using to spread the message of inspiration and change across the world. It will see Rob cycling 10,000 miles over the next three years and he is hoping to encourage others to embark on their own Quest 4 Hope challenge – whether that be holding an afternoon tea to raise money for charity or taking up a new sport or volunteering somewhere in your community. Rob believes we can all affect change and make the world a better and more inclusive place if we just put our minds to it.

And where will these 10,000 miles be racked up…

“Next year I will be doing all the islands around the UK - Ireland, Anglesey, Isle of Wight, Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey.

The year after I am doing Canada to Mexico and then the year after that I will be doing from France to Spain down to Portugal and all the way back to Germany.

It’s a three year project and the plans are coming together quite nicely now.”

Rob’s goal was to ride side by side with an able-bodied rider.

When he joined a cycling club in Crawley he couldn’t make it up the first hill but now he boasts that they struggle to catch him on the road.

FACT Rob has a number plate on the back of his bike that reads ‘DISABLED’ – this is following an incident that landed him in a ditch at the side of the road for hours after an impatient car overtook him and threw a can of coke at him. Although he wasn’t happy about using this number plate he has found that drivers have treated him with nothing but respect now they realise he is a disabled handcyclist and not just someone with a fancy bike.

FACT Rob’s daughter arranged for him to appear on the TV programme Surprise Surprise in 2015 where Rob met one of his idols Karen Darke, received a video message from his hero Arnold Schwarznegger and was donated seven handcycles (over £40,000 worth of bikes)

by Sunrise Medical to allow Rob to teach young disabled children how to handcycle.

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03/10/2017 15:47

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SOAPBOX

Do you have a disability sports-related opinion you’d like to get off your chest? To have your say in OnTrack’s new Soapbox column, contact: colette@2apublishing.co.uk

DISABILITY RIGHTS ACTIVIST MICHAEL MCEWAN TELLS IT LIKE IT IS

Image © Mark Davidson

Words by Michael McEwan

I

t’s a stark reality there are not enough disability sports on television. More coverage is needed to break down the barriers, showcase disability teams or individual elite sportspeople and inspire the next generation of superstars.

Earlier this year, a national petition was launched, calling for broadcasters to show more disabled sports to inspire the next generation of athletes following last year’s Paralympic Championships in Rio. The Paralympics Games 2016, without a doubt, was a sea change in broadcasters’ attitude and response to the appeal of disability sport.

EARLIER THIS YEAR, A NATIONAL PETITION WAS LAUNCHED, CALLING FOR BROADCASTERS TO SHOW MORE DISABLED SPORTS...

The Games sparked a groundbreaking commitment to on and off-screen diversity, with the largest team of disabled presenters on television and 26 disabled production staff platformed by Channel 4.

This was the biggest overseas broadcast on the channel and Paralympics history, with over 700 hours of live Games coverage across all Channel 4 platforms.

At the Paralympic Games in London 2012, Channel 4 won the rights to broadcast the event. During the Games, the channel devoted more than 150 hours’ airtime. 82% viewers surveyed said they enjoyed the fact that commentary was delivered by disabled presenters and 74% said they liked the matter-of-fact discussion about disability.

During the Games, there were over 24,000 downloads of Games apps on smartphones and tablets, more than a million views of clips and full-length programmes and almost two thirds of the UK watched the Games on TV and other media platforms.

As part of this legacy, Channel 4 continues to bring live disability sport to our screens.

The station covered the Anniversary Games and part of the IPC Athletics Grand Prix final.

This and last year, Invictus Games were shown live on BBC 1, helping to raise awareness and also to give viewers an inspiring insight into the sporting achievements of wounded, sick or injured armed services personnel and their associated veterans.

As reported in the last issue of OnTrack, Invictus Games medallist and Royal Marine veteran JJ Chalmers was among the BBC’s presenting team for this year’s recent Invictus Games.

Yes, we have come a long way, but I look forward to seeing more diverse para sports on the small screen and through different media outlets, including swimming, wheelchair basketball, football and golf.

I’d also like to see more para sportspeople become future household names, such as the many para athletes whose achievements were celebrated worldwide at the recent Paralympics and at London 2017.

It’s time viewers saw the ability and not the disability and learned more about the achievements of disabled sportspeople not just in the field of disability sport but on a par with non-disabled peers.

MICHAEL MCEWAN

Disability rights activist Michael McEwan works to promote Limelight Music - a Scottish Equalities professional music training and production company that addresses inequality in music education for people with impairments by creating pathways to employment within the performing arts. Michael is a go-getter whose efforts have introduced a team of people to the joys of disability sport through the football club he jointly launched in Glasgow.

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Play. Participate. Enjoy.

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Cerebral Palsy Sport CPISRA World Games 2018

• 8 accessible luxury lakeside lodges in Devon • 5 Caravan Club CL pitches with electric hook up • Heated indoor pool (Seasonal) • Games Room and Free WiFi • Orchard and woodland walk • Dogs welcome

Cerebral Palsy Sport are pleased to announce that we will be coordinating Team England to attend the CPISRA World Games 2018, to be held in Spain in August 2018.

Cerebral Palsy Sport hosted the Nottingham 2015 CPISRA World Games in which 13 countries, and 400 participants competed.

Athlete information can be found at www.cpsport.org/sports There are a number of corporate sponsorship opportunities to support Team England at this international event.

Please contact fundraising@cpsport.org for packages.

Membership Find out more about Cerebral Palsy Sport’s new membership categories for professionals & organisations: www.cpsport.org/supportus

01409 211140 info@blagdonfarm.co.uk www.blagdonfarm.co.uk

Contact us: Unit 5, Heathcoat Building, Nottingham Science & Technology Park, University Boulevard, Nottingham, NG7 2QJ Tel: 0115 925 7027

Email: info@cpsport.org

Website: www.cpsport.org Facebook: Cerebral Palsy Sport

Twitter: @CP_Sport

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03/10/2017 14:06

BREAKING BARRIERS by Joe Harman

WHY DOES MY BACK PAIN KEEP COMING BACK? THIS ISSUE JOE TALKS TO US ABOUT BACK PAIN

L

ower back pain (LBP) is an extremely common problem which can affect one-third of the UK adult population each year. It can be characterised by sudden attacks; when the JOE pain has the potential to stop HARMAN people in their tracks followed is a rehabilitation by a period of recovery back therapist, specialist personal trainer and to normal activities. In most massage therapist. cases, LBP is usually self-limiting, He was inspired to set up rehabilitation meaning that it can improve on and fitness business its own within four to six weeks.

Breaking Barriers after working hard through However, the likelihood of LBP his own rehabilitation recurring in those with a previous to recover following a serious road accident. history can be as high as 85%.

Although the cause of LBP can be multi-factorial and unique in each individual case, it is common for LBP to reduce the fitness of the important muscles that stabilise your spine. LBP can also lead to delays in your brain’s ability to successfully co-ordinate the muscles responsible for keeping your spine strong.

This has the potential to result in a vicious cycle of LBP recovery and LBP where people can find that the most mundane

activities aggravate their backs.

Breaking Barriers is passionate about maximising people’s physical potential and enabling them to lead more active and fulfilling lives. This is done by offering physiotherapy, specialist personal training and sports massage to bring about short-term improvements and longer lasting change.

We can help address the difficulties from LBP though helping you to stay active, as well as through providing management of LBP with timely assessment and interventions e.g. rehabilitation exercises or sports massage to help reduce pain and increase movement and flexibility.

If you are suffering with LBP do seek help and support from your GP or an appropriately trained professional.

Contact Akshay Patel, Breaking Barriers neurophysiotherapist, on 07581 039611. contact@breakingbarriers.fitness

BACK HEALTH TIPS

If you are experiencing lower back pain, you may find these suggestions help to reduce your symptoms and quicken your recovery:

è STAY ACTIVE

Although it can be hard at times, it is important to avoid long periods of inactivity as this is likely to make the pain worse. Move a little and often.

è HOT & COLD

Use a hot or cold pack for 10 minutes at a time throughout the day for short term relief.

è SPEAK TO A GP

Speak to your GP or pharmacist to discuss how medication could help improve your symptoms and enable you to keep active.

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03/10/2017 11:39

Words by SwimEngland

BECOME A

PARA

SWIMMER

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|

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Look no further for advice from the experts at SwimEngland for their top tips for becoming a para-swimmer in their handy five-step guide! Do you want to know more about getting into competitive para-swimming?

Or maybe you have your heart set on becoming a para-swimmer in England? Read on to find out how you can achieve your dream.

magazine.co.uk

03/10/2017 14:53

TOP TIPS

5

There are five key steps on the pathway to becoming a paraswimmer. Many of England’s top Paralympic swimmers will have taken these steps on their journey to the top of the sport.

03

FIND A CLUB Club coaches will give you specific advice and coaching to improve your swimming. There are also huge benefits to training with like-minded swimmers and being part of a team!

Swimmers with disabilities are encouraged to join nearly all mainstream clubs – to find your nearest club visit the Swim England website for details.

PARA-SWIMMING

01

02

04

05

GET IN TOUCH Not sure what level of paraswimmer you are or even if you qualify as a para-swimmer? Let SwimEngland help you! Whether you’re a recreational swimmer, a newcomer to the sport or already at a club, fill in the ID Tracker form and SwimEngland will give you specific advice for moving forward.

GET CLASSIFIED To swim in any competitions in England as a para-swimmer, you’ll need to be a classified swimmer. Your times will be compared to other swimmers in your class – advice on how to become classified can be found at swimming.org/ swimengland

SIGN UP FOR AN ASSESSMENT Sign up for an assessment at your local Disability Swimming Hub Club.

A qualified disability swimming coach will look at your basic swim skills then give you the best advice for taking your swimming to the next level – find contact details for your local Hub Club at swimming.org/ swimengland

SET YOUR GOALS HIGH Your long-term goal should be to compete at the Paralympic Games.

Download the qualification times, put them on your wall and use them as motivation each time you look at them. Then get plenty of competitive experience as your build up to this standard.

The website provides information on all paraswimming competitions.

If you have questions about para-swimming in England vist swimming.org/swimengland

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03/10/2017 14:53

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE

OnTrack Magazine is out every two months and is available completely free of charge.

EVERY ISSUE INCLUDES:  Info on getting involved in different sports  Sports club focus  Tips for getting fit  Activities for the whole family  Interviews with Paralympic athletes  Sports news

If you would like OnTrack Magazine delivered to your door every issue free of charge, simply fill in the form below and post it back to the address provided, call us on the number below or drop us an email.

Please post your completed form to: OnTrack Magazine, 2A Publishing Ltd, Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Ind. Est., Glasgow, G46 8JT You can also call 0141 465 2960, email sophie@2apublishing.co.uk or visit www.ontrackmagazine.co.uk.

SUBSCRIPTION FORM Name: Address: Postcode: Tel: Email:

OnTrack Magazine’

@OnTrack_Mag

Date of birth: I am subscribing because I am: a disabled person  a sports club  a parent of a disabled child  a professional in the industry 

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03/10/2017 15:54

Attention anyone who has served in the Armed Forces...

Blesma is the leading charity for limbless veterans AND those veterans who have lost the use of a limb or limbs.

Many of our Members have lost limbs since leaving military service, but Blesma is also there for all ex-Service men and women who have lost the use of limbs in a traumatic incident after serving.

Our Blesma Support Officers are available to offer advice and answer your questions about mobility or living with the loss of use of limb.

Call: 020 8548 7080 email: membersupport@blesma.org or get in touch via the ‘Contact Us’ page at www.blesma.org

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03/10/2017 14:06

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03/10/2017 14:06