AN Ivybridge Air Cadet instructor has just returned from the Invictus Games, the competition created by Prince Harry for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and veterans.

Civilian Instructor Chris Jones of Ivybridge based 339 (South Dartmoor) Squadron competed in the hand bike and indoor rowing events at the games, held in Orlando.

Although both events were scheduled within 30 minutes of each other, Chris put in performances to be proud of. He was the second Briton to cross the finishing line in the Mens IHB2 Road Cycling final, coming an overall 8th place just 59 seconds behind the winner, a member of the US paralympic team. And after a quick sprint to the rowing event, Chris took part in the four minute timed row in which he came 6th, followed by a one minute sprint row in which he narrowly missed a bronze medal.

Chris, a former teacher at Ivybridge Community College who served in the Army, was very impressed with the way the American public welcomed veterans from each of the 14 countries taking part.

He said: ’The staff and volunteers at the resort and the venues were incredible, nothing was too much trouble and we were incredibly well looked after. The atmosphere, especially at the indoor arenas, was unlike anything I have previously experienced, the noise from the crowds was awe inspiring but also incredibly encouraging.

’They cheered everybody, regardless of nationality.’

He enjoyed the event so much he has now set his sights on qualifying for the next Invictus Games, to be held in Toronto in September 2017.

339 (South Dartmoor) Squadron commanding officer, Flight Lieutenant Adrian Corfield said: ’CI Chris Jones has dedicated many hours in all weather training for the games, he has inspired all at the squadron and should be rightly proud of his achievement in this year’s Invictus Games. We wish him every success in the next games.

’It was fitting that CI Jones’ return coincided with the squadron taking part in the Air Cadet Organisation’s 75th Anniversary Sports Challenge, which was undertaken by the cadets and staff.’