Page 9 - Real Rochdale Issue 20 Winter 2023

Kelly’s final competition, two recumbent
cycling races, saw her win two more gold
medals in a 1.6km time trial and a circuit
race.

“Cycling is definitely my new love and gives
me a freedom I thought was lost forever
after my accident as I’m unable to ride a
conventional bike. I will continue cycling
long after the games, especially because
my three-year-old son Jaxon is learning
to ride a bike, so this is something we can
do together as a family with my husband,
Sean.”

Kelly met King Charles III (then HRH Prince Charles) in
Kelly was elated to win the time trial – but Afghanistan in 2010
her condition began to flare up, causing
the familiar nausea and shoulder and back
pain, and she considered pulling out of the “By pulling out of the race, I would be
afternoon race. letting myself down, and everyone else who
had supported me, so I pulled up my big girl
She said: “I was so sick and deflated, pants and off I went.
debating whether I could compete. So
many people have to deal with pain, day in “It was a tactical race and I sat behind the
and day out; the Invictus Games are about other three bikes for the 20 minutes until
showing what you can do, regardless of the bell rang for the last lap. The finish was
being wounded injured or sick, pushing in sight, so I pushed as hard as I could with
yourself to be the best version of yourself all the energy I had left from a busy and
that you are able. unforgettable week, and I overtook the
other three to cross the line first and win
gold again.

“This race was to prove to myself that I
am worthwhile and to stand up and be
counted.”

Kelly added: “The endless kindness of the
other competitors, the Royal British Legion
and the amazing volunteers that made this
all possible. I spent most of the week either
laughing or crying happy tears and I left
there with my heart full, full of confidence
and with a renewed energy.

“I feel it’s my mission now to shout out
as loudly as possible about the Invictus
Games because it genuinely saves lives. For
those that haven’t been in the military but
who are injured or sick please reach out in
your community to find adaptive sports.

“There is something for everyone, you
never know what it may do for your life.”

REAL ROCHDALE - WINTER 2023 8 9 REAL ROCHDALE - WINTER 2023