Neilson: Medal is realistic target
Strathaven star Aileen Neilson says UK Sport’s target of a top-five finish and a medal at the Paralympics is achievable if the wheelchair curling team is on form.
Neilson and the side are heading to Pyeongchang in South Korea next month looking to at least make the play-offs and Aileen is in confident mood.
Aileen, who will skip the five-strong team, said:“we have the ability to go there and medal – we just need to make sure we perform when it matters.
“It’s every athlete’s dream to be on the podium with a gold medal around their neck.
“That will be the case for every one of our competitors, so for us to get there we will need to be in tip-top condition.
“It’s a small group and we know each other’s games really well.
“The next few weeks will allow us to further that bond and build our team dynamic which is crucial for our game.”
Team GB will compete at the Gangneung Curling Centre, the venue where the same group won a bronze medal for Scotland at the Wheelchair Curling World Championships last year.
Aileen added:“the athletes’ village will be a new experience, so I don’t know what to expect.
“But the rink in Pyeongchang last year was fantastic.
“The ice technicians did a really good job and I’m sure we will be competing on world-class ice.
“It has been a rollercoaster ride over the last few years but bronze at the World Championships last year has done a lot for our confidence.”