A paraplegic veteran took on the gruelling Nuclear Races mud run in order to get ready for a larger event to raise money for Blesma, a charity for limbless veterans. Andrew Bracey decided to get sponsored to take part in the event in order to show other paraplegics just how much is achievable even with disabilities.

Andrew, from Southend, attended a tester day last month that allowed him to see what sort of obstacles he would have to deal with during the real event, which is set to be hosted next year. The 41-year-old had a team of 15 to 20 people – which was made up of friends, family and serving soldiers from Race2Recovery – who helped him to get around the muddy and hugely challenging course.

He told Blesma: “I want loads of people to see what I’m doing and see that people in wheelchairs can do these challenges as it has such a stigma. I’ve always liked a challenge and nothing is going to stop me. There’s so much out there for those in wheelchairs, I just want to show what is possible.”

Andrew was confined to a wheelchair after a motorcycle accident in 2005 and had previously served in the Royal Artillery for 17 years. He toured both Northern Ireland and Iraq during his service.

Despite his injuries, Andrew has attempted several challenges to help show people what can be achieved even if you are in a wheelchair. In the summer, he won two silver medals and two bronze medals at the Invictus Games for various wheelchair racing events.

Andrew has also spoken at Brentwood Festival about how the charity Blesma has supported him since his accident.

“Taking part in the Nuclear Races for Blesma makes me feel like I’m back in the Army," he said "I want to give back to the charity that has helped me a lot and show my appreciation. I love mud and always wanted to do it so why not?”

As well as taking on as many challenges as he can, Andrew is also aiming to make it to the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics. ADNFCR-2867-ID-801828282-ADNFCR

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