GOLD STAR SHANNON
Swimmer powers past opposition to secure Team GB’s first medals SPECIAL OLYMPICS GLORY FOR SCOT
A SCOTS swimmer took Britain’s first gold medal of the Special Olympics World Games yesterday.
Shannon Crosbie, 19, helped power the GB 4x25m freestyle relay swimming team to glory on the first full day of competition.
They were in third place when she took up the final leg and powered past the opposition to take gold.
For the teenager from Currie, near Edinburgh, it was a stunning victory considering the problems she has had to overcome with autism and global learning delay.
As a youngster, she was bullied and excluded from games at her mainstream primary school. She developed anxiety problems and her parents Mark and Lesley had to battle to get her into a special school which better suited her needs.
The World Games are being held in Abu Dhabi in the UAE but all the swimming events are at the Hamdan Sports Complex in Dubai.
Her parents were poolside to cheer the youngster to victory and, last night, Mark said: “She was quite emotional at the end.
“She has had to overcome so much to be here – not being included and anxiety issues.
“She was bullied in primary one and two and not included in things in mainstream school.
“But thanks to Special Olympics that’s all behind us now.”
He added: “Anyone on the autistic spectrum has challenges but Shannon loved sport and swimming is her life. It gives her a focus.
“She coaches youngsters every week night at her club, Livingston Aquanauts, and also has a job as a baker.”
The Special Olympics coaches’ support has made all the difference to Shannon’s ability and confidence.
Mark said: “It’s all about going out and being brave and just to try their very best.” Shannon has been swimming competitively since she was seven years old but her dad said: “For her to win world gold is just fantastic. Both of us are absolutely delighted. We are so proud of her.
“My Facebook page and WhatsApp have been absolutely buzzing.”