Young triathlete’s proving a fantastic role model to others
DIAGNOSED with cerebral palsy at 22 months old, Lucy Scott is determined to not let her disability get in her way.
Alongside her dad, Luke, 35, and twin sister, Molly, 11, the inspirational 11-year-old completed all three stages of her first triathlon, including 100m open water swim, 3km bike ride, and 11km run.
Now in its third year, the Superhero Tri Powered by Marvel, in Windsor, draws heroes with a mental or physical disability from across the country to take part.
And Lucy loved every minute of the competition.
“It was really good, I loved it,” she said. “I love sport, it keeps me going and keeps me healthy.”
For Lucy’s mum, Lynsey Kennedy, 35, it was a proud moment to see her daughters competing.
Lynsey, NHS admin worker, said: “I was proud and emotional watching Lucy competing in such a big event alongside thousands of other children with different disabilities.
“The races were so hard, with all three events being back to back, but she never complained and managed to do them all on her own. Sport is very important to Lucy as it helps her to keep mobile, helps with her lung capacity and keeps her fit and healthy.”
Dad Luke Scott is determined to encourage Lucy to live her life to the full.
He said: “We don’t let Lucy’s disability stop us doing things as a family and the Superhero Series is a great way for Lucy and Molly to take part and achieve something together.
“We have been looking forward to the event, and other families who are thinking about it should definitely come along next year or find out what sport can do for them.”
Lucy was part of six teams of 22 people with a range of ages, abilities and backgrounds and the hope is the achievements of Lucy and her fellow superheroes will inspire others to take up the challenge themselves.
The active youngster, who runs for Gateshead Harriers club and is a member of two swimming clubs, is a role model to other children with disabilities.
And has now been nominated for this year’s Chronicle Champion awards under the ‘Young Role Model’ catergory.
After hearing the news about her nomination, Lucy said: “Wow, that’s really good and I’m really proud.
“I helped a little boy during the
race and told him to pedal faster so he did. I love supporting people.”
Irwin Mitchell sponsored the event in connection with their nationwide Don’t Quit, Do It campaign, which seeks to shine a spotlight on the benefits of disability sport.
In the UK, 13 million people live with a disability, yet only one in eight takes part in regular sport, despite the physical and psychological benefits that come from it.
Greg Phillips, part of the Irwin Mitchell Court of Protection team supporting the family, said: “Lucy is a fantastic little girl and a real superhero to all who know her.
“The family are showing others what is possible and from the Don’t Quit, Do It campaign, we know how important positive role models can be.
“Sport helps with rehabilitation and offers a real feel-good factor, while allowing people to realise they can still achieve their potential, no matter what their disability.”
For more information and how to get involved with the Don’t Quit, Do It campaign, visit www.irwinmitchell.com/dont-quit-do-it
To enter the Chronicle Champions awards, visit https://eu.jotform.com/form/83473681629367, contact Amy Taylor on 0191 201 6092 or email amy.taylor@reachplc.com and she will advise on an alternative method of entry.
Closing date for entries is Friday, September 27, 2019.