Cerebral palsy athlete takes on Totalsports Challenge

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Wednesday, 15 December 2010 08:38

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Multisport conquers physical challenges

Chris Wagner does not plan on slowing down anytime soon. Always searching for his next challenge, Wagner will be seen in action on Saturday, 8 January 2011 when he takes on the popular Totalsports Challenge presented by New Balance and Powerade.

At the age of nine a Brain Haemorrhage (Stroke) resulted in hemiplegia, paralysing the entire right hand side of Wagner’s body and leaving him unable to speak. Through intensive physio, occupational and speech therapy, he has largely conquered his physical challenges, with the aid of sport.

According to Wagner, although diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP) he refuses to let the disability get the better of him. “Cerebral Palsy is a direct result of brain damage, and manifests itself as uncoordinated and stiff (spastic) muscular control. Although a degenerative condition, regular multisport has proven to work wonders in keeping the physical aspect in check. I struggle with certain mental aspects (hidden) of CP continually, however endorphin release (through exercise) keeps me generally mentally positive,” says Wagner.

“If I were to stop training, my right hand side would drop muscle volume and tone down significantly, along with losing muscle elasticity and co-ordination. It would also affect other areas, for instance with the increased stiffness and muscle reaction times it would not be safe for me to drive a car. As a result, I need to practice a variety of muscle groups to keep me adequately mobile,” continues Wagner.

“I’ve wanted to take part in the Totalsports Challenge for the past three years, but my paddling skill and ability was not up to standard and on top of that I am also a complete novice on the mountain bike. Although the individual legs are fairly short, it will be super challenging linking the seven disciplines together with the fitness and skill required to complete the event successfully. Mental aptitude will definitely play a role. I imagine that, like me three years ago, most athletes are put off by the surfski and K1 paddle."

"My suggestion would be to work on the weaker disciplines separately. Perhaps in time they'll also have the confidence to enter the Totalsports Challenge individually.  I am really looking forward to pushing my ability and challenge quest to a new level.”

According to Dezroy Poole, Race Director Stillwater Sport & Entertainment, Chris Wagner is a true inspiration. “We are honoured to have Chris at the 2011 Totalsports Challenge. He is a perfect example of how motivation and determination can conquer all. We hope that his participation will encourage more athletes to take on the Totalsports Challenge,” says Poole.