12th September 2014

DENMARK'S WHEELCHAIR RUGBY ATHLETE JAKOB HOU LARSEN HAILS 'INCREDIBLE' INVICTUS GAMES

12 September 2014

Denmark's wheelchair rugby athlete Jakob Hou Larsen says winning bronze for his country in the Copper Box during day two of the Invictus Games was 'mind-blowing'.

Larsen was hit by a sniper in southern Iraq four days into his deployment in 2006 and had his spine severed.

However, the 37-year-old fought back and has now had the chance to compete at the Invictus Games, presented by Jaguar Land Rover.

And Denmark were part of one of the matches of the tournament after they pushed the USA all the way in their semi-final encounter eventually losing 14-13.

In the end Larsen had to settle for third place after they edged out Australia in the bronze medal match.

But despite not making it to the final, he says the Games have been incredible.

“It's been a massive experience to win bronze. The sheer size of it all is mind-blowing,” he said.

“The venues are awesome and just living in the hotel with the other athletes form the other countries and getting to know people and chat about their experiences, then getting to meet them on the court the next day is very special.

“The highlight has definitely entering the [Copper Box] arena for the first time, and the volunteers - the number of people willing to help.

“It's a bit of a joke for my friends back home that I can now call myself an 'athlete'.

“Telling them that I'm actually going to compete and wear the national jersey...no-one believed me the first time round! It's all about living up to the responsibility for me.”

The inaugural Invictus Games will see more than 400 competitors from 13 nations coming together and Larsen hopes it will continue for years to come.

“Sport is great for people like me because its about getting to know your body again post-injury,” he added.

“The fact that in day-to-day life as a wheelchair user you have to be constantly aware of your surroundings - people, the floor, doors, etc.

“Getting into a court designed for wheelchairs is so special. You can give it 100% without having to really be aware which is just amazing.

“I would love for this incredible event to continue. The athletes are already talking about next year.

“I hope and believe events like this will help people like myself and how they are recognised back home.”