Golden Goody swim to Invictus Games glory

Mike Goody, formerly of White Horses Way, Littlehampton, picked up silver in the 50metre ISC freestyle before storming to gold in the 50metre backstroke, breaststroke, 100metre freestyle and 4x50 relay.

The Invictus Games, which closed on Sunday (September 14), is an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick service personnel, with more than 400 competitors from 13 nations taking part in nine sports across four days.

The 29-year-old former Angmering School student had his left leg amputated in 2008 and only swam for fun but as soon as he heard about the games he knew it was something he had to do.

“It’s absolutely brilliant competing here, the atmosphere in this venue is superb,” he said.

“I was involved in sport before the amputation. I used sport to get me out of what I call my dark times in the early days when I turned to drink.

“With the help of Help for Heroes and Battle Back at Headley Court, I really used that to turn my life around a little bit.

“Swimming is my sport now but I only really do it for social, fun or fitness reasons.

“I don’t really compete anymore. I used to when I was younger, but for the Invictus Games I upped my training and thought I had better do something about it.”

Mike, who in 2012 carried the Paralympic Torch and joined the closing ceremony of the games, hopes the Invictus Games will become a regular fixture on the sporting calendar.

“If the Invictus Games came back on, I would most certainly be back for it and I know Prince Harry wants to push it forward whether it’s every year or every other or whether it goes round the world.

“If we can inspire just one person to change their lifestyle or think they can do something about their situation no matter what it may be, then we’ve done something positive.”

Jaguar Land Rover was proud to be the presenting partner of the event.

For more information about the games and profiles on competitors visit www.jaguar.com and www.landrover.com