One of 72 wounded heroes who will be representing the UK in Sydney Australia


David Atkin - image www.helpforheroes.org.uk

David Atkin, 28, from East Putney, who was medically discharged from the RAF after being injured in Afghanistan in 2010, will be traveling 'down under' to Sydney, Australia to take part in the Invictus Games.

The city is hosting 500 competitors and 1000 family and friends from 20-27 October. The Games will feature competition in 11 sports and David will compete in rowing, shot put, discus and powerlifting.



David served as a Senior Aircraftman in the RAF until he was medically discharged in 2011 said, “After sustaining my injury in Afghanistan, I wasn't able to partake in sport or much physical training due to the constant pain and my spinal condition worsening. I have always been a very active person, so this led to me becoming depressed and nearly at the point of giving up.” Following seeing the 2017 Invictus Games coverage, the 28-year-old felt motivated to: “Get back in the gym and think to myself that I can do this.”



David credits sport with boosting his confidence, improving his mood, relationship and everyday life: “Representing the UK at the Invictus Games really would be the pinnacle for me and would give me closure on what has been a very tough journey. I am fully committed to not letting my injury get the better of me anymore and will continue to use sport as an aid for that.”


The Invictus Team with Theresa May at Horse Guards Parade - image helpforheroes.org.uk

The athletes – 64% of whom are new to Invictus - were also joined by former Team UK captains, including Paralympic Bronze medallist Dave Henson. More hopefuls than ever before, 451 WIS military personnel and veterans, trialed 11 sports for one of the 72 places available on Team UK. The rigorous selection process for Team UK was based on the benefit the Invictus Games will give an individual as part of their recovery, combined with performance and commitment to training.

May 17, 2018