Name: Chris Byrne
Rank: WO2
Regiment: REME
Date joined: September 1998
Length of service: 23 years
Why did you decide to join the military?: In order to obtain a formal profession and engineering career whilst visiting the world.
What was your reason for leaving the military?: Medical discharge for both physical and mental capacity.
What is your injury/illness occur and how did it occur?: Lower back pain (Cauda Equina Syndrome), complex mental health disorders and high functioning autism (although not yet diagnosed).
When and how did you hear about On Course Foundation?: Whilst in long-term sick leave via a course with my Personnel Recovery Unit.
What was your golfing experience prior to your first event?: I’ve been a social golfer since childhood.
Your experience of On Course Foundation so far? What do you take out of the events that you attend?: The formal instruction to improve my game gives me the focus to attain goals I never thought possible from my ability and limitations.
What do you hope to gain from On Course Foundation in the future?: Further improvement in my golf ability and potentially employment within research and development/equipment development.
''The formal instruction to improve my game gives me the focus to attain goals I never thought possible from my ability and limitations.''
What accomplishment are you most proud of?: My varied and extensive career within the Army.
What do you like to do in your spare time?: I love puzzles and brainteasers and I have been an Adult Fan of Lego (AFOL) for many years. I also help run a Men’s Mental Health Charity which has recently seen me take up the position of Captain within their golf club set-up.
However, golf is without a doubt my main focus outside of work.
Who are your heroes?: There are too many to mention, including comedian Bill Bailey and Sports Psychologist Dr Bob Rotella.
ABOUT US
On Course Foundation continue to provide positive provision for wounded, injured and sick Service personnel and veterans - supporting their recovery and transition to civilian life through confidence building golf events and opportunities for employment in the golf industry.
As a sport, golf offers a unique platform where players of all skills and backgrounds can compete healthily, improving not only their physical but mental strength too. With many lacking self- belief, it’s our aim to help our beneficiaries realise their potential and set them on a fulfilling path.
Formed in 2010, we have seen first-hand that that participation in golf can have a profound positive effect on the rehabilitation of our beneficiaries.