One of the most inspiring moment of the day came in Race 29, when Robin Gibbons and Sol Solomu raced. Robin and Sol are both paraplegic but, with the aid of groundbreaking work from a Brunel university team led by Professor Brian Andrews, they are able to row by means of an advanced technology called FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation). Although they've only been rowing for a short period, both men have become big indoor rowing converts. The unanimous applause they received as they came home was the biggest of the day, and Professor Andrews was adamant that everyone involved would be back for more next year.

At a special medal presentation at Leander Club on December 9th, Olympic champion James Cracknell said: "It is an honour for me to present Robin and Sol with these medals. The training that they put into competing in the AXA PPP healthcare British Indoor Rowing Championship has been nothing short of inspirational. I hope that Robin, Sol and other paraplegics will benefit from future developments in FES rowing machines."

Robin and Sol competed in the event using specially adapted Concept 2 indoor rowing machines that utilise functional electrical stimulation (FES) to help paraplegics exercise effectively by stimulating their paralysed leg muscles. The FES rowing machine was developed in collaboration with the UK Charity DEMAND and is a significant breakthrough for people with spinal disability, giving them the opportunity to lead a healthier lifestyle. Competitive participation at the event has been made possible as a result of the exceptional physical improvements experienced by the competitors since they have been using the FES rowing machine. These include unprecedented levels of cardiovascular fitness, circulation and lymphatic return as well as upper and lower body strength comparable to before their accident and an almost full reversal in muscle wastage of the legs, which can often be as much as 60% after paralysis. Robin Gibbons has reported that since using the FES rowing machine he now has enough strength in his legs to stand.

Professor Brian Andrews, the Brunel FES project leader said: "I am delighted that Robin and Sol are being rewarded for their willpower and physical hard work over the past few months. Following their success, the Brunel FES development team, along with their Canadian partners in Alberta, is keen to ensure that our findings benefit as many paraplegics as possible. With increased investment it will be possible to improve the lives of paraplegics throughout the world."

Robin Gibbons said: "This medal represents more than just winning a competition. It is the culmination of months of mental and physical hard work. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I greatly look forward to competing in, and winning, future indoor rowing events. I truly hope that my accomplishment will help to promote the health benefits of rowing to other paraplegics worldwide."