(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) 120 races, over 3,000km covered by way of half Ironman triathlons, other marathons and endurance obstacle course challenges. Now, Nick Watson and family have formed a team to spread awareness and aid integration of people of determination within the UAE, via sports.
Nick Watson and wife Delphine said it was their son Rio, also a determined one, who changed their lives and inspired them to form a team that sends a message of hope, happiness and inclusion to determined ones.
Their Team Angel Wolf encourages teamwork, shows the importance of "family", and aims to show that "anything is possible" to make a difference in the world. "This is done through participation in sporting events (such as triathlons) by inclusion, free community activities and inspirational seminars within schools and the private sector firms in the UAE. Team Angel Wolf works towards helping the community by helping Dubai to be one of the world's most disabled-friendly cities by 2020, and to reduce obesity and diabetes in the emirate and in the UAE," said Watson.
"Soon after my wife Delphine gave birth to Rio, he began experiencing crippling seizures. Rio was eventually diagnosed with 1q44 Deletion De Novo Syndrome, a rare chromosome disorder that causes difficulties in walking, talking and amongst other disabilities," he added.
Despite his disabilities, young Rio was a ray of light, but before the family discovered racing with him, it was hard to keep him entertained. With no friends, the concept of 'play' held no logic to Rio and there was a lack of purpose until his first race three years ago.
Races involve Nick swimming while dragging Rio in a kayak; cycling with Rio in an adapted seat on a specialised bike; running with Rio sat in an adapted wheelchair; running up the stairs with Rio strapped to his back in an adapted baby wrap; or having Rio sit on a stretcher while a team carry him round endurance obstacle desert races.
"Initially, we were greeted with shock and confusion, because Rio's disabilities weren't apparent to many at first glance. Then it turned to admirable disbelief. Now, we are part of the expected crowd that comes to compete at races, and within the racing community, Rio is accepted wholeheartedly as one of the athletes," Watson said.
"His joy is a palpable reminder as to why we started Team Angel Wolf, and we will continue spreading our message, breaking social barriers, motivating the community and inspiring families who may be struggling in a way we might have, had we not found racing."
Team Angel Wolf has given corporate motivational talks to over 8,000 employees across companies, and #TeamAngelWolf School Inspiration Talks to over 20,000 children, in the hopes of motivating them to not only care about their own health and wellness, but change preconceptions they may hold about what it means to have a disability.
"We are fortunate to be living in a city like Dubai where giving back, in any form, is a pillar.
"Our leadership is committed to creating a collaborative culture of like-minded people passionate about building and supporting the community. The recently launched Day for Dubai is testament to that," Watson said.
Team Angel Wolf recently launched their free, weekly community programmes. Previously, during the Dubai Marathon, the team had five volunteer runners pushing five people of determination in their disability running chairs and completing the 42km race together. The Watsons described it as "an emotional and inspiring moment."
The fact that people are embracing our vision and volunteering their time is inspiring. Through acts of kindness, togetherness and collaboration, the younger generations can build a wonderful future together.
"I encourage everyone to spend at least one day a year supporting the community, whether it be through our activities or through others," Nick said.
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