Barry joined the Peter Harrison Centre for Disability of Sport as a PhD student; at the same time the Centre re-branded its mission under the directorship of Prof Vicky Tolfrey. Barry has played an integral role in the success of PHCs activities with leading the biomechanical and technology-based research projects and taking many Dutch masters students under his wing. Please refer to page 31 for Rienk van der Slikke’s reflections of working alongside Barry and the PHC team here. In this period, he has published 47 peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts, contributed to 3 book chapters, and directly supervised two PhD students to completion. With his tremendous experiences at both a research and applied practical level of wheelchair sport, the PHC team with Barry’s input have played an integral role in supporting and advising many Para sport NGBs sports science needs.
Vicky Tolfrey, Director of the Peter Harrison Centre, said: “I cannot thank Barry enough for everything he has done for Para sport in his time here. We have made a huge transformation over the years with our collaborations and with building our international reputation, which may not have been possible without his tireless work. I am of course terribly sad to see Barry go, but happy that he is taking up this new challenge with GB Wheelchair Rugby, a sport which we have supported for many years now. On behalf of everyone at the PHC, I’d like to thank Barry for everything he has helped us achieve and for leading with his calm, measured and professional manner.“
GBWR, Website, quotes: “His thoughtful and collaborative leadership style make him the perfect choice to build a performance team which ensures GB athletes are the best prepared in the world. His appointment further highlights the strength of the partnership between the Peter Harrison Centre and wheelchair rugby; commenting on this CEO David Pond said, “there is no centre in the world that better understands our sport and our athletes, led by the outstanding Professor Tolfrey, they are at the leading edge of all they do.” See GBWR https://gbwr.org.uk/dr-barry-mason-to-be-head-of-performance-team/ for full press release.