Rio 2016 hopeful’s medal haul at inaugural Games includes four track golds

Joe Townsend says he will never forget his Invictus Games experience after being presented with the Jaguar Award for Exceptional Performance at the closing ceremony, writes Marios Papaloizou.

Townsend got his Invictus Games campaign off to a flying start as he claimed four gold medals on the track in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 1500m IT4 wheelchair races.

But he wasn t finished there and on Saturday the 26-year-old added two more medals to his collection when he bagged bronze in the IHB2 men s hand bike time trial and silver in the circuit race.

Fourth in the men’s lightweight powerlifting rounded off a special Games for Townsend and his efforts didn t go unnoticed as he was presented with his award by Team Sky cyclist Ian Stannard.

“To be selected for this award from over 400 inspiring competitors is very special,” he said. “The first ever Invictus Games were an incredible event and the award caps a week I will remember for the rest of my life.”

He added: “Winning four gold medals on the first day of competition was incredible. Sport has played a huge role in my recovery and the Invictus Games will hopefully continue to provide a platform for people like me to achieve their goals.”

Townsend lost both legs while serving in Afghanistan in 2008 and now part of the British para-triathlon squad he finished fourth at the ITU World Triathlon Grand Final in Edmonton last month as well as taking bronze at the European Championships.

The multi-talented athlete, who is gearing up to compete at the Rio 2016 Paralympics, says he hopes that the Invictus Games can become a regular event on the sporting calendar.

“I think the Games has sold itself already. It s gone far past anyone s expectations, the public has been really behind it and I just hope it continues.

“It s given us a great opportunity to get together, show camaraderie and show what we can do. If another country takes it on, they can put their touch on it and carry on the legacy.”

Jaguar Land Rover is proud to be the presenting partner of the Invictus Games, the international sporting competition for wounded, injured and sick Service personnel. For more information visit www.jaguar.com and www.landrover.com

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