Dreams on track at Indoor Disability Athletics

Feb 8 2008 By Tony Collins

MORE than 300 young disabled athletes from across the West Midlands achieved a magical sporting dream when they took to the track for a major tournament.

Youngsters from 40 schools competed for two days at Birmingham's prestigious National Indoor Arena for the Indoor Disability Athletics competition.

The event marked the start of the athletics season as the first major championship for schools in 2008.

Competitors were supported by a team of 20 volunteers from npower business, based in Solihull, who assisted youngsters to their starting positions and provided encouragement during the events.

The races were all adapted to suit athletes with moderate and severe learning difficulties as well as physical and sensory impairments.

Tournament organiser, Leonie Lightfoot, performance and development co-ordinator at England Athletics, described the atmosphere as electric.

"One of the greatest reasons for excitement was the youngsters' appreciation of the fantastic venue.

"Many of them said being on the NIA track, where so many of our great athletes have stood, filled them with pride."

Among the special schools taking part were Mayfield, in Heathfield Road, Handsworth, Victoria and Longwill Primary for the Deaf, both in Bell Hill, Northfield, and Hazel Oak, in Shirley.

Talent scouts from England Athletics were at the NIA with a view to identifying youngsters who have the capability to compete at national level.

Jayne Foster, community development officer at npower business, said: "Every year, we volunteer to support this event and I know that everyone who takes part says it has been inspirational.

"It's wonderful to be involved in a tournament at such a high-profile venue, specifically designed to encourage young disabled athletes to enjoy sport."