Regional News

Wheelchair racing developments at University of Warwick
The University of Warwick specialist Mondo? track surface has attracted many elite wheelchair racers seeking benefits of a superfast surface. However, until this summer athletes often came and went un-noticed in the day, only watched by the GB coach or a parent. Since July a regular training group has been established as part of the Coventry, Solihull, Warwickshire (CSW) McCain Athletics Network's partner - the University of Warwick Endurance Academy.

Athletes from Coventry and neighbouring districts have been joined for group sessions by racers from further afield – even the Netherlands – as word spreads. Those with experience bring their custom-made racing chairs seeking a break in the monotony of training alone and to be pushed by others. They have included leading junior athletes, national record holders and world ranked athletes. For new athletes trying the event for the first time a range of pre-used chairs are on offer, sourced from auction sites and donated by athletes.

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Solihull schoolgirl completes adaptive rowing challenge
Emma Wilson - a pupil at St Martin’s school, Solihull - has completed a sponsored row of a mile on Edgbaston reservoir after recently learning to scull.

Seventeen-year-old Emma is paralysed from the chest down, and wanted to raise money for Whizz Kids - a charity dedicated to giving disabled children the chance to lead a more independent life - which has helped her significantly since being in a wheelchair.

She also raised money for her school's chosen charity TROOP AID, which supplies the ‘basic essentials’ - including clothing, washing and shaving equipment, and writing materials - when armed forces casualties return from serving their country overseas.