Barca-bound squad ready to fly the flag
DISABILITY ATHLETICS
GATESHEAD Harriers have been at the forefront of athletics in the region for many years – and now they have another reason to celebrate.
Four of the club’s members have been selected for Team England to compete at the Cerebral Palsy World Games in Barcelona from August 6 to 13.
The quartet making the trip are Gareth Brown (34), Anna Nicholson (23), Stewart Chappell (38) and Emily Stewart (19).
It is a huge feather in the cap for everyone involved at the International Stadium-based outfit - especially for club secretary Iona Sweeney.
She said: “Naturally we are delighted to have four of our members taking part in Barcelona.
“The athletes deserve to be recognised.
“Not only have they worked extremely hard at training under the guidance of their coaches but they have also held several fundraising events to help cover the cost of their travel and accommodation.
“They go to Spain with all our best wishes and they will not be going out there for a holiday.
“Between them they have a number of events to look forward to including the , shot put, javelin, 100m, 200m, long jump and the relays.’’
Twelve months ago Gateshead Harriers were awarded ‘Inspiration Club’ status by England Athletics for their committed work with athletes with disabilities.
They were the only club in the North of England to be recognised for their work - and since then the numbers involved have grown considerably.
Sweeney added: “Everyone at Gateshead could not prouder of Stewart, Anna, Emily and Gareth.
“Naturally, they are filled with a mixture of excitement and nerves.
“We wish them luck and hope they enjoy the experience.’’
The quartet will be joined in Catalonia by fellow Gateshead Paralympian Stephen Miller, who is chairman of the Athletes Committee for the CPISRA World Games.
Miller, no stranger to the big stage, will be supporting his Gateshead team-mates before he moves on to Berlin later in the month to contest his sixth European Championships.