Matt Clement from Taunton has embraced a remarkable second chapter in his life after a serious accident five years ago, finding a fresh passion and purpose in para fencing. At the age of 52, Clement’s journey began following a fall from his son’s mountain bike, an incident that profoundly altered his life.
Previously active as a motor cross racer and county shooter, Clement underwent six months of intensive treatment in Salisbury before attending the annual Inter Spinal Unit Games, a UK rehabilitation event for those with spinal cord injuries. It was there he discovered para fencing, soon joining the Bath Blades and later the Bristol Blades, before progressing to compete internationally.
Since making his debut at a World Cup event in Cardiff in 2022, Clement has competed extensively both in the UK and abroad. He is set to return to Cardiff next week for the European Championships, an event that will mark the first time the competition takes place in the Welsh capital.
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Reflecting on his experience, Clement feels fortunate to have found para fencing so quickly after his injury. “I had one life that was a self-employed carpet fitter, motorcross racer, just a normal lad with a family,” he said. “Then everything changed in the blink of an eye.
“But I’ve started a whole new life and feel lucky to have had two different lives within one. When one door closes, many others open. It isn’t the end when something bad happens – there is so much more you can do.”
He added, “People here say I’m an inspiration, but I’m just me. Other disabled people in my village look up to me, but I’m no god! I’m still new to this, but being part of the squad and representing my country is magical.
“The environment is amazing – top athletes, yet they are my friends and they always support me. I’m a cheerful person and like to bring fun wherever I go.”
The upcoming European Championships will be held at the Sport Wales National Centre from 6th to 11th October 2026. This event serves as the first European qualifying competition for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games. Having flown the British flag at events in Italy and Hungary, Clement is eager to compete on home soil as part of the largest British squad ever assembled.
“I’m immensely proud and so are my family and friends,” he said. “I want to focus fully because this is the biggest event I’ve taken part in so far. It’s a mental as well as physical challenge. Maintaining the right balance between calm and focus is key.”
Supported by UK Sport through The National Lottery and the Welsh Government, the championships will showcase top para fencers from across Europe, marking an important milestone in the qualification journey for the Paralympic Games.