2021
Blesma Updates for 2021, covering news, activities and fundraising events for limbless veterans.
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Blesma Member Jaco brings home Gold for GB!
26 August 2021Afghanistan war Veteran Jaco Van Gass wins Paralympic cycling Gold for GB Jaco Van Gass has won his first Paralympic medal in the Men’s Track 3k individual pursuit. The former Para lost his left arm at the elbow when he was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade in Afghanistan in 2009. He also endured a collapsed lung, punctured internal organs, a broken tibia, fractured knee, and shrapnel wounds. After extensive rehabilitation, he rebuilt his life – taking on feats such as trekk
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Stuart Robinson ready for Paralympic rugby debut
25 August 2021From the RAF to Wheelchair Rugby Gold Training for elite sport in lockdown has been a challenge. But when you are preparing for wheelchair rugby at the Tokyo Paralympics, it takes discipline and ingenuity to a new level. Former Royal Air Force gunner Stuart Robinson flew out to Tokyo on Tuesday 17 August with the Great Britain squad after testing his improvisation skills to the limit. The 39-year-old even fixed archery targets to his garage doors to sharpen up
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The Blesma Members to look out for at the Tokyo Paralympics
24 August 2021Five Blesma Members will be competing and aiming for podium positions at this year’s delayed 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games. Starting today (Tuesday 24 August), these are the military athletes you should be looking out for… Lesley Stewart
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Scotland swings into action with golf day
21 August 2021The first post-lockdown face-to-face activity in Scotland went with a swing as Members enjoyed a day of golf practice and tuition in May. The eight-strong group were put through their paces on the driving range and puttinggreen at the Mearns Castle Golf Academy, in Glasgow. “We had a lesson from the golf pro and everyone felt they improved,” said Outreach Officer Scotland Emma Gration. “It was great to get some tips, but everyone really enjoyed being out and meeting Members.” Former Royal Navy aircraft handler Stu Padley, who suffered a strok
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