Today, a guest blog from Captain Nick Binnington, who competed over the weekend in the Brits at Belleayre Race for Veterans ski race at Belleayre Mountain in upstate New York. Captain Binnington is part of the British Army Staff at the British Embassy in Washington, DC.
Standing in the start gate, boots tightly done up, staring out across miles and miles of wooded hillsides bathed in bright sunlight, I was snapped back to reality as the starter official called my number and asked if I was ready: “3..2..1..Go!”
I received a call from Clare Risman – Vice Consul at the British Consulate – about 6 weeks ago asking if I’d like to take part in a ski race in support of the Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project up in New York State at a ski area called Belleayre. She was organising the race to highlight the plight of wounded US soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, drawing attention to the fact that many of these soldiers will have fought side by side with British troops in various war zones around the world.
The Wounded Warrior Project is something I am particularly interested in, similar to our own Battle Back programme in the UK. The mission of the charity is ‘to honour and empower wounded warriors’. The Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project is a partnership between Disabled Sports USA and local chapters of the Wounded Warrior Project. Injured soldiers, airmen and marines are going through a sudden traumatic change in physical ability; it can make them vulnerable to psychological, emotional and physical trauma which impacts on them and their families. Early intervention with active sports gives the promise of an active future and can result in successful rehabilitation by providing a foundation for the development of a positive self-image and outlook. This transformation is a key factor in leading an independent, full and productive life. If ever you have a chance to support this charity, or to see these remarkable wounded service men and women in action, I strongly advise you to do so; it has a funny way of putting the rest of our daily lives in perspective.
The race, open to all ages – the youngest competitor being 6 the oldest competitor being 66 – was a great success. It was well supported by the ski resort and the weather – perfect for spectators, a little warm for racing – was clear and bright. In all, about 60 competitors took part and the mixed standard was very much in keeping with the fun spirit of the race. Over $3300 was raised through both entry fees and raffle tickets and the pilot event was deemed a great success. Bigger and better plans are already being laid for next year.
As for myself, despite a fairly creaky back, I managed to sneak into 1st place ahead of 10 year old Christopher and 59 year old Bob. Cries of ‘ringer’ greeted me as I mounted the podium to collect my gold medal and, as I surveyed my fellow competitors, most of them below 16, I reflected on a job well done. Roll on Brits at Belleayre 2011!