A PARA-athlete from Oakley has returned triumphant from the OCR (Obstacle Course Race) European Championships in Italy, bringing home four gold medals.
Jamie Gane, 30, dominated the competition, securing first place in all four races he entered: the 100m, short (3k) course, standard (15k) course, and team (8k) race, held from June 13-16.
Gane's remarkable achievements involved overcoming more than 150 obstacles and navigating several ski slopes.
His journey to athletic excellence, however, has not been without significant challenges.
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Suffering from severe and chronic plantar fasciitis since the age of 11, he used to endure excruciating pain in his right foot.
The condition prevented him from even using crutches and confined him to a wheelchair.
In a life-changing decision, Gane chose to amputate his leg in 2016 at the age of 23.
This allowed him to regain his mobility and pursue his passion for sports, leading him to excel in para-athletics.
Over the past four to five years, Gane has been competing in OCR events, primarily against non-disabled athletes.
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Gane's next challenge is the World Championships in Costa Rica this August, for which he is actively raising funds.
The Basingstoke Lions Club has generously contributed to his fundraising efforts, supporting his journey to compete on the world stage.
Supporters can help Jamie Gane reach his goal by donating through his GoFundMe page: gofundme.com/f/help-jamie-compete-world-championship-fundraiser.
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