Multi Paralympic Boccia medallist visits Recare for Ottobock powerchair servicing

Recare customer David, 35 and originally from Hampshire, has Hypertonic Cerebral Palsy Quadriplegia. He has become one of the UK's most successful Boccia Paralympians, winning five medals across four Games. Both his original B400 and now his new Juvo B4 powerchair have been supplied and supported by specialist Ottobock provider Recare. Recare is based in Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire.

David started playing Boccia as a teenager. At Treloar School, he enjoyed considerable sporting success, becoming the youngest ever British Boccia champion at the age of just 14 and then Boccia World Champion at 18. The following year, he embarked on an Aerospace Engineering Degree and competed at his first Paralympic Games in Beijing. There, he helped achieve team gold. He followed this success at the 2012 London Games, where he took individual silver and team bronze. That was the same year he became an Ottobock B400 powerchair owner and customer of Recare. Throughout his sporting and working life, Recare has serviced this powerchair. Furthermore, it now looks after his latest Ottobock Juvo B4. With Juvo B4 being the newest addition to David's equipment, his independence is enhanced.

In Rio, David won the individual gold medal in Paralympic Boccia, and in 2018 confirmed his status as the no.1 player at the World Championships in Liverpool. In 2019, he secured the triple crown, winning the European Championships. He went on to defend his title in Tokyo by winning an individual gold medal. This made David the most successful Boccia player of all time. This remarkable achievement earned him an MBE, presented by Prince William at Buckingham Palace. In 2022, he was further honoured with an OBE, which was bestowed by Prince Charles. He narrowly missed out on a medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics; however, he is already training hard for LA 2028. David continues to use his older B400 to train and compete. Meanwhile, his state-of-the-art Juvo B4 is reserved for day-to-day living.  

Embracing the latest advanced mobility solutions

David's Juvo B4 powered wheelchair is an updated version of the B400; however, it retains the same compact frame, making it easier to drive through narrow doorways and navigate confined spaces. As a regular volunteer at his local Swansea parkrun, David needed a powerchair with a longer range and suspension to handle uneven surfaces. These features make the Juvo B4 an essential addition to his daily routine.

As David continues on his successful sporting pathway, he reflects on the importance of his Ottobock powerchairs. Notably, Juvo B4 has played a significant role in facilitating his lifestyle.

“My story is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's about embracing technology and innovation to live a fulfilling and empowered life. It’s a testament to the incredible impact that advanced mobility solutions can have on one's life, and I hope it inspires others to pursue their own paths with resilience and confidence.”

James Holland-Oakes, Commercial Director at Recare, concludes:

"We are proud to support Ottobock's Ambassador as our products help empower David to perform to the best of his abilities. Both powerchairs allow him the flexibility and functionality to maximise his training focus so David can remain at the top of his game. As an influential advocate of inclusive sport for all, David's attitude reflects our own commitment which aims to enable everyone through confidence boosting equipment."