A VETERAN from Burnham has overcome life-threatening illness to win a silver medal at the Invictus Games in Canada, where she represented the UK.
Sara Howarth, 51, suffered a ruptured aneurism in 2014, ending her RAF career. However, in the years since, Sara has “battled back” with help from the Royal British Legion, eventually earning a spot on Team UK at this year’s Invictus Games.
On Sunday, she took part in wheelchair curling, helping to defeat Canada, Germany and Israel to take on South Korea in the “tightly fought” final.
Sara’s silver medal is one of the first won by Team UK at this year’s games.
She told Caroline Coastal the experience is “absolutely unbelievable”.
“I didn’t come to the Invictus Games to win a medal – I have different challenges to face,” she said.
“The wheelchair curling team is just epic. As our coaches pointed out, we’re here to have fun and really enjoy the atmosphere. But to make it to the final was just mind-blowing.
“To actually win a silver medal is just unreal!”
Sara says going to the Invictus Games has pushed her to face some of her greatest fears.
She said: “Since my ruptured brain aneurysm, I’ve been scared of travelling - but now I’ve been on a plane to Canada.
“I don’t do crowds and loud noises – but with unbelievable support from The Royal British Legion, Team UK and my sister, Kate, I took part in the opening ceremony.
“We support each other as Team UK, and the support we get from the Royal British Legion is just epic!”
The Invictus Games is an international multi-sport event founded by Prince Harry, for wounded, injured, and sick military service personnel.
Held in Whistler, Vancouver, this year is the first time winter sports such as wheelchair curling have been included in the games.
More than 500 athletes will compete in 11 different events, before the games end this Sunday (February 16).
For more information, visit the Invictus Games website.