ROMSLEY athlete Dave Watson has stepped up his training after successfully securing a Team GB place for this year’s Invictus Games.
The event, which will take place this autumn in Australia, was set up in 2014 by HRH Prince Harry and is an international Paralympic-style multi-sport event for sick, wounded and injured service personnel.
Last year Watson returned from the games in Canada with two medals – a gold in the IF6 discus and bronze in the shot put.
“It was an amazing experience, the atmosphere and sense of community throughout the games was brilliant,” he said.
“I knew I had a chance of winning a medal but I was over the moon to leave with two.
“I’m working hard to retain my title in the discus and see if I can improve on my bronze in the shot.
“I’m also pushing myself further as I’ve also been selected to participate in rowing and archery.”
Joining the army in 2008, Watson served with the Scots Guards.
It was during a tour of Afghanistan in 2010 when he stepped on an explosive which resulted in the loss of his right arm and both legs.
This life-changing incident led to major surgery at the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham followed by gruelling rehabilitation.
One of the things which kept him going through all this was his positive ‘can do’ nature and his love of sport.
When the idea of Paralympic sports was presented to Watson he did not need too much persuasion to give it a go and was soon back in the sports arena with his competitive juices flowing again.
Juggling family, work and training is a tough task but one which Watson thrives at and is driven to exceed in.
He is looking to give his best for this year’s Invictus Games and then also hopes to put himself in contention for consideration for Commonwealth and Paralympic Games.
To support his endeavours Watson is seeking sponsorship.
For further information email [email protected].
