Typhoo and EFDS tea-ming up to support disabled athletes in South West
Over 60 athletes from clubs and schools across the region will take part in the Typhoo South West regional athletics event at the Exeter Stadium on Thursday 19th May 2016.
Typhoo and national charity the English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) have teamed up to ensure more disabled athletes have access to participation opportunities across England.
The South West event is one of a number of regional meets taking place this summer. Under the banner Typhoo Sports for All the programme aims to increase disabled people’s access to local athletics competition.
Rob Belbin, a trustee at the EFDS, and an organiser of the event, said:
“This is a fantastic event for young athletes with special educational needs and disabilities, for many this will be their first ever athletic event.
"Over the years by creating a fun and safe sporting opportunity we have nurtured talent while promoting healthy activity. Young people have gone as far as representing their country but equally importantly many have continued enjoying the sport for many years after their first games.
"This year we look forward to meeting many new young people and relish the opportunity to introduce them to an activity for life.”
Somnath Saha CEO of Typhoo Ltd, said:
“Typhoo is delighted to continue our partnership with EFDS. We are looking forward to supporting more disabled people to access sport as part of our ongoing Sports for All programme.”
Barry Horne, Chief Executive for EFDS, said:
“We’re delighted to be working again with Typhoo on this much-loved programme. It is always brilliant to see how many people get involved in this athletics programme, both competitors and volunteers. This is testament to the hard work that takes place every year. Typhoo’s support is extremely valuable and will ensure more disabled people use this opportunity to be active for life.”
Disabled athletes at the regional qualifiers are aiming for a place in their regional team at the National Junior Athletics Championships- the programme climax on 2-3 July 2016. Over 250 12-20 year olds will take part over that weekend at Warwick Athletics Stadium, where you can spot future stars.
Last year, thanks to Typhoo, 1400 disabled athletes took part across England. For over 25 years, the National event has provided thousands of young disabled athletes with the opportunity to develop their talent and compete against others from across the country. The full track and field programme means athletes with a wide range of impairments can take part- something, which is not often supported at many other events.
Many elite disabled athletes began their golden careers at the national event. Paralympians Hannah Cockroft, Shelly Woods, Aled Davies and Hollie Arnold were once junior participants who moved up the ranks to become world-class athletes.
Teams of dedicated volunteers deliver regional events, including long-term partner Lions Club International.
