Ski success for Wallasey soldier who had both legs amputated

Feb 10 2010 by Lorna Hughes, Wallasey News

A SOLDIER from Wallasey who had both legs amputated has beaten a host of rival competitors in an Army skiing event.

Lance Corporal Pete Dunning, 24, of Armoured Support Group the Royal Marines, won the Best Overall Disabled Competitor in Exercise Pipedown for his efforts.

Exercise Pipedown is the ski championships for British soldiers based in Germany, but is also open to some soldiers in the UK.

It was held in the French ski resort of Les Contamines de Montjoie near Mont Blanc.

Pete lost his legs during his last tour in Afghanistan in May 2008, when the vehicle he was providing cover for was hit by an explosive.

The former St Mary’s College student, whose parents Frank and Vera still live in Wallasey, said: “During my rehabilitation I found out about an initiative called Battleback to get injured soldiers involved in adventurous training.

“I first went skiing in Bavaria in Germany and then fell in love with the sport straight away.

“I really enjoyed the experience and they convinced me to come here and compete against able-bodied skiers.”

“I can still hold my own against able bodied skiers. It has gone well for me, the biggest problem is controlling myself at high speeds but I am getting better.”

“I never thought I would ski after being injured but I am and what’s more I am totally independent here.”