At Ocean Florida, we believe in creating the holiday of a lifetime for everyone. Since 2022, we’ve been transforming adventures with
our award-winning Accessibility Hub, crafted to make barrier-free travel a reality for people with disabilities. From fast-track airport assistance to VIP lounge access and accommodations tailored to your unique needs - we take care of every detail.
In September 2024, we were thrilled to help Lucy Hodges MBE jet off to Texas to compete in the Adaptive CrossFit Games by WheelWOD. After an incredible performance, finishing 4th in the Vision Impairment category, Lucy returned home with unforgettable memories - and we are delighted to share them with you...
Lucy’s Background
Born with Photophobia Nystagmus, a condition that affects her vision and sensitivity to light, Lucy Hodges has never let her disability become a barrier to greatness. She is an award-winning semi-pro sailor, has represented Great Britain in swimming, competed internationally in CrossFit, and has become a mentor and ambassador for disability sports.
When Lucy needed an accessible travel provider to compete at the Adaptive CrossFit Games in Texas, her journey had a meaningful connection. Having trained with one of our Travel Specialists, Jason Humphries, at Artemis Gym in Rochford, Jason introduced Lucy to Ocean Florida and we proudly agreed to sponsored her travels to the Adaptive CrossFit Games.
Lucy’s experience with Ocean Florida
Lucy says she was blown away by the thoughtful service provided by everyone at Ocean Florida. She appreciated the care and attention to detail, saying she experienced “genuine support, genuine questions about the journey from leaving my house, you know, to the hotel, being in the hotel and then coming home again.”
Upon arriving at the airport, Lucy received our complimentary Fast Track service (subject to availability) and Lounge Access. At security, Lucy used the accessible lane, where airport staff assisted her, and Lucy highlighted that “…they were very compassionate, not like hurrying you trying to, trying to make you go quickly and, you know, hold your hands up when you can't see where you got to hold your hands up.”
Afterwards, Lucy could relax in the airport lounge, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and prepare for her flight in comfort. Lucy said that boarding was equally smooth - she boarded early and received a personalised, one-on-one safety briefing from the airline crew.
Accessible Accommodation in Texas
Lucy praised her room, describing it as “highly rated, with large rooms and great space,” and she had glowing feedback on the hotel’s service:
“And the one thing that is really lovely about the hotel was there was always staff on hand at breakfast that were happy to help. So if you're like me, visually impaired, trying to find the buffet breakfast can always be a struggle. If you're in a wheelchair trying to push your wheelchair, hot food on your lap is a high risk. But every part of the hotel, you could always find a staff member to help you.”
Competing in Texas
Lucy’s first battle was with the weather. According to Lucy Hodges MBE, “Hot was not the word.” But sweltering temperatures didn’t stop her from giving her all. Thankfully, the incredible CrossFit volunteers were ready to help competitors stay cool with cold drinks, ice spas, and fans - keeping spirits high as the athletes pushed through the challenge.
While Lucy is no stranger to high-level competition, she described the Games as “a whole new stage, a whole new level.” Over four intense days, she pushed her limits in a gruelling test of physical strength and mental resilience. And despite the challenges, Lucy’s hard work paid off. She proudly placed fourth in the world in the Visual Impairment category, proving once again that she’s a force to be reckoned with.
Reflecting on her time in Texas, Lucy summed it up in one perfect phrase: “a dream come true.”
Final Thoughts and Reflections
Lucy’s story doesn’t stop in Texas. Fresh off her incredible performance at the Adaptive CrossFit Games, she returned home to compete in the International Inclusive Sailor Regatta Championships - and sailed her way to victory.
Looking ahead, Lucy hopes Ocean Florida continues to expand its accessibility programme across the USA and beyond, making even more destinations open and inclusive for travellers with disabilities.
And we look forward to making her dreams come true once more!
To read up on all that we offer our accessible customers, visit our dedicated
Accessibility Hub.
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