Inspiring sporting journey continues

Competing for the first time in 17 years has given Daryl Burton hope that his sporting future is not over.

The Palmerston North man has just returned from Toronto, where he competed in the 2017 Invictus Games.

The Invictus Games, created by Prince Harry, is a sporting event for ill, wounded and injured Defence Force members or veterans.

Burton, a New Zealand army reserve warrant officer, said the discs in his lower back were damaged when he was in Bosnia after he jumped off a truck and landed on one leg, causing a crush injury to his back.

But it was a scorpion sting in East Timor 17 years ago that set off a domino effect on his health.

He developed hyperthyroid problems and Burton said his body basically started poisoning itself.

Then he got muscle deficiency, which meant he could not hold any strength, making running impossible.

He thought this meant the end of his sporting days.

But the Invictus Games changed all of that.

‘‘It was an incredible experience – getting to compete for the first time in a long, long time, getting ready to go on the court and getting on the court and playing.’’

It was all a highlight and Burton said he had never experienced anything like it.

‘‘It was amazing, met some amazing people.’’

His first sport was tennis, which Burton said was fun, but, unfortunately, it made his back flare up.

‘‘I ended up with a walking stick for three days.’’

This meant he could not compete in rugby and basketball as planned and ended up being the water boy.

But he was hoping to return next year and do even better.

‘‘It’s really rekindled my desire. It’s the beginning of the journey and it’s a journey I want to carry on with.’’