Meet Jamie Gane, an adaptive athlete in Judo, Obstacle Course Racing and throwing sports, who is currently ranked a more than impressive 2nd in the World for Judo, and who has recently taken up residence in our humble abode of Oakley.
We first heard of Jamie Gane when he shared a wonderful post about the beauty and welcoming nature of our local residence, praising the good mornings and greetings he received from passers-by as he was on his daily run through Oakley.
Jamie, who turned 27 recently, moved to Oakley last August with his partner and two loveable cats – Rio and Rusty – and has already fallen for our village’s charm, telling us: “I previously lived in central London, before University. Nobody talks to anyone and it can get quite lonely. When we moved to Oakley, I was taken aback by the kindness of the community and I really experience that when I’m running – everyone says hello and it’s lovely to see.
“We moved in August, after actually being inspired by one of our cats, Rusty. We adopted Rusty two years ago and he really struggled living on a main road. We were keen to move from the hustle and bustle of central Basingstoke. We stretched our search and found Oakley – once we visited, we knew we didn’t want to be anywhere else.”
As well as being a maths teacher by day, sport is a huge factor in Jamie’s life; which sees him compete internationally for Judo and Obstacle Racing.
“While recovering from complications from my initial amputation, I was unable to train for throwing sports, so I branched out and started Judo again, as well as completing over 70 Tough Mudder courses. I have now built up a community and family within Obstacle Course Racing and it is one of my large drivers in life.”
How important is it to exercise and keep busy for one’s mental health?
“Incredibly important. Last year, just before we moved to Oakley, I had surgery and couldn’t exercise. I couldn’t wait to get back out there and train.
“Later this year, I should be running the London Marathon for the third time. I am raising money for LimbPower, which seeks to allow other amputees the opportunity to access sport – they are amazing.”
To keep up to date with Jamie Gane’s incredibly journey make sure you visit his website and social media pages at @jamieganeadaptiveathlete for Instagram and Facebook.