US-bound Laura to fly the flag for Team GB

Ex-servicewoman to put health struggles aside to take part in multi-sports contest in Chicago

A Tayside woman is looking to set her health issues aside to compete for Team GB in a gruelling armed forces challenge.

Laura Fermor, 34, served for seven years in the Royal Logistic Corps, before being medically retired in October 2013 after receiving life-changing injuries in 2008.

The former Carnoustie High School pupil suffered with depression as her health struggles took their toll.

She has now been selected to represent Team GB at the Warrior Games, which will be held in Chicago at the end of this week.

The Warrior Games is a US military, inter-service, multi-sports competition that takes place annually and is led by the US Department of Defence.

This year the games will be run by the US Navy, in the host city of Chicago.

The Warrior Games is open to any service personnel or veterans who were wounded, injured or became sick as a result of their military service. Laura will be competing in swimming, seated shot put, rifle shooting, recumbent cycling and 100m and 200m wheelchair racing.

“I’m flying down to London on Tuesday, and out to Chicago on Wednesday,” she said. “The Warrior Games start on Friday. “I’ve been training hard both in and out of the pool, but have to strike the right balance of training with managing my pain levels.

“I don’t want to get out there and not be in top form for competing.

“I can’t really tell how I will get on but at least I know I have done the very best preparation I can, and will give each day of the games 100% effort.

“I have never been one to quit when the going gets tough.

“I’m really looking forward to getting started out there, and it’s been a blessing the weather has been so warm, as it has helped to acclimatise me to the expected temperatures in Chicago.”

Laura added: “I think the whole experience will be fantastic, and goes to show myself how far I’ve come since point of injury in 2008.

“I’m hoping to bring home some medals.”

Laura, who was born in Dundee and attended Monikie Primary School, now lives in Spittalfield, Perthshire, with her husband Kevin.

The St Andrews University graduate sustained her injury while conducting a fundraising march along Hadrian’s Wall in May 2008 with the corps.

Laura Fermor was medically retired from the Royal Logistic Corps in 2013 and will now compete in the Warrior Games.