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GB Paralympians support week of sport at Inter Spinal Unit Games

Over 90 people from spinal unit centres across the UK have enjoyed participating in an action packed week of sport and activities, at the WheelPower Inter Spinal Unit Games 2016.

The teams from each of the UK and Ireland’s spinal injury centres travelled to Stoke Mandeville Stadium for WheelPower’s flagship event, that provides an introduction to wheelchair sport for people with recent spinal cord injuries.

Led by some of the nation’s top coaches and supported by Paralympic stars including Marc McCarroll (wheelchair tennis), Elizabeth McTernan (Handcycling), and Jade Jones (wheelchair racing) participants enjoyed the unique opportunity to experience 15 different sports.

Wheelchair racer and Rio 2016 medal prospect Jade Jones said:

"I always really enjoy coming to the Inter Spinal Unit Games. I have a lot of fun introducing people to wheelchair racing, seeing their reaction and seeing how much they like it as well."

Stoke Mandeville (National Spinal Injuries Centre) were ultimately crowned champions with dominating from performances from Mark Langeveld (pictured below) and gold medals for Naomi Vann, and Esther Tsang.

While the results and competition are an important part of the event, the fun social atmosphere, the personal developments, and barriers broken down will be lasting legacy that many participants will take home with them.

Sue Mould, participant from the Midland Centre for Spinal Injuries (Oswestry) said:

“I tried powerlifting and fencing - that was super, but everything has been such good fun and the people who are involved in sharing their experiences, the ones who are the experts are just so approachable and patient.
"Anybody patient enough to teach me how to fence or do wheelchair rugby is amazing. They were just so good.“

Sue was paralysed by a tree that fell on her when she was out jogging in 2015. After the Games Sue has been inspired to try even more accessible activities and sports.

Sue continues:

“The Inter Spinal Unit Games has increased my confidence, it goes far beyond just experiencing sport I met so many people.  Every single person who’s in a wheelchair is completely different, but it’s wonderful talking to them.”

WheelPower’s Stewart Jeeves who coordinated the event, said:

“As the national charity for wheelchair sport, WheelPower are proud of the lasting impact our events can have on people.
“The first year after spinal cord injury is a crucial stage of rehabilitation and it is WheelPower’s aim to promote the benefits of enjoying a healthy active lifestyle to people with a disability.“

Stewart added:

“We would like to thank all of our volunteers and coaches for the great contribution to the event as well as our partners Stewarts Law, SIA Healthcare, New Quadrant Partners, Outer Temple Chambers and 1Life Management Solutions.”

WheelPower Inter Spinal Unit Games 2016 results

1st Place: Stoke Mandeville (National Spinal Injuries Centre)

2nd Place:  Salisbury (Duke of Cornwall Spinal Treatment Centre)

3rd Place:  Pinderfields (Yorkshire Regional Spinal Injuries Centre)

For more information about the Inter Spinal Unit Games 2016 including competition results and Games awards please visit WheelPower website. Or visit WheelPower's Facebook page for event photos and more news.