In 2013 work began on setting up a wheelchair racing group in Worthing which will provide individuals with physical disabilities that can ‘self-propel’ from across Sussex with the opportunity to participate in some of the iconic events in the Paralympic programme.
Backed by England Athletics through the Sussex Athletics Network and encouraged by Adur District and Worthing Borough Councils the group is based at Worthing Leisure Centre and hosted by Worthing & District Harriers. As well as the lead partners financial or in-kind contributions have also been received from Worthing Scope, sported and Wadhurst Runners. There is a pool of 6 racing wheelchairs, which includes 4 produced by a national charity, Motivation, who have developed a more affordable chair, and ancillary equipment such as specialist gloves available for newcomers to the sport to use.
Training sessions are held at Worthing Leisure Centre, Shaftesbury Avenue, Worthing on Tuesdays at 5.00 p.m. and on Saturdays at 10.30 a.m. As the group develops there will be opportunities to take part in competitions but the core aims are to provide fun, fitness, friendship and fulfilment through participation. Any wheelchair user or individual with partial trunk and leg function of any age or experience is welcome to attend either session.
Ten year old Nathan Freeman has been attending the sessions from the beginning and has made significant progress in that time. Of his experience he comments: “I love wheelchair racing because it’s fun and makes me feel like I’m running. It’s not just about competing but about getting exercise and keeping fit. It’s not easy, but if you persevere with it, it does get easier. I feel so independent when I’m in my racing chair and I’ve got to meet some lovely people who are also disabled. I’ve tried other disabled sports but in my opinion wheelchair racing is the best!”
Please contact Claire Moyle 07762013949 / cmoyle@oakgrovecollege.org.uk or Julian Stevens on 01273 263104 / julian.stevens@adur-worthing.gov.uk for more information.
