Derek Derenalagi

Former soldier Derek Derenalagi turned to sport after he was injured. Now competing as a Paralympian, Derek has made quite the name for himself in the sporting world. His drive and commitment to Paralympic sport is commendable and continues to place him as a firm favourite amongst the public. Derek had quite a different career before sport, joining the British Army in 1999.

It was in 2007 that his life was changed forever. Derek was in Afghanistan on a tour of duty in Helmand Province, when the vehicle he was travelling in was struck by an improvised explosive device. Derek was actually pronounced dead by medics, however they later found that he still had a weak pulse and he fortunately pulled through. The explosive had a significant effect on Derek’s life, leaving him with the life-changing injury of having both legs amputated.

Only five years after his injuries, Derek now holds a career as a Paralympian competing in discus throwing. He is part of the Ministry of Defence Battle Back programme, a scheme which isfunded by the charity Help For Heroes. Whilst part of the programme Derek took part in a training camp, situated at the United States Olympic Training Centre. Now, Derek competes in the category of F57, a category for Paralympians for people who have spinal cord injuries or amputations.