A WORCESTER man who lost his sight suddenly due to Multiple Sclerosis has returned from competing in the Invictus Games with two personal bests and is ready for his next challenge.
Mark Abel, an administration assistant for Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust and former Corporal in the Army, was selected by Prince Harry to jet off to Florida to compete in four different swimming events, the 50m and 100m freestyle, 50m backstroke and 50m breaststroke.
The 49-year-old, who lives in Warndon Villages, lost his sight suddenly in 2011 after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a lifelong condition that affects the central nervous system.
Undeterred by his illness and supported by Blind Veterans UK, Mark was able to return to employment and recently embarked on the international challenge at ESPN World of Sport in Orlando, Florida which featured more than 500 military athletes from 15 countries.
Mark said competing in the games, which were aired on BBC One from Sunday, May 8 to Thursday, May 12, was an emotional experience.
He told the Observer: “It was incredible, emotional and inspirational. I got two personal bests, in the 100m freestyle and the 50m backstroke. I shocked myself, it’s a huge achievement for me.
“One of my favourite moments was getting led to the starting blocks before the events. I can’t see so I could only hear the fans shouting and screaming. I was totally engrossed in the moment. It was an emotional walk.
“I also met Prince Harry when we were watching the volleyball with my wife, son and in-laws. Harry sat on the bench next to my son and started chatting to us.
“As a team it was a huge success. There were 29 swimming events and the UK Team won 19 gold, 17 silver and 10 bronze medals. It’s one of the biggest spectator sports, it’s fast and furious and over in 30 seconds.”
Although he did not qualify for the finals, Mark has returned to his training ready to try out for the Invictus Games in Toronto next year.
“Even though I didn’t qualify, I am still hugely proud of what I’ve accomplished. It was a fantastic experience and we had the chance to cheer at the other sports which were spectacular,” he said.
“It was emotionally heart-rending seeing people going through rehabilitation and recovery. The limits they put their bodies through is inspirational.”
Mark will also be taking part in a sponsored tandem skydive in Hibaldstow, Lincolnshire on June 26, 2016 for Blind Veterans UK.
Visit www.justgiving.com/Mark-Abel for more information.
