Both are wounded veterans; one is a double amputee and the other a single amputee. Sidwell and Gardiner have now entered the record books by competing in their first race. Both amputees, they are the first team in the world to compete at National level in the ThunderCat Championship and in true military ethos, they lifted the Triumph over Adversity Cup.

This was a massive achievement for Team Endeavour Racing, who had four teams made up by wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans battling the rough water conditions. Prior to the awards ceremony they said that the navigation was way worse than the sea conditions not helped by the fact that none of the ThunderCat crews have any form of Satnav.

After collecting their trophy Sidwell said

It wouldn’t have been possible without all the support, encouragement and advice received from all members of Team Endeavour – massive thanks for all your support.

Team Endeavour Racing provides a foundation as a transition vehicle supporting and empowering team members into future employment, training or education, utilising peer mentoring and providing support and assistance through its partners. It also raises money and awareness for children and families of the UK Armed Forces who are suffering through illness, hardship, and poverty.

2022 UKOPRA ThunderCat Championship

Images supplied by Malc Attrill/UKOPRA