UKSA announce cycling and athletics teams to Inas Global Games

Launching her international debut, Lauren Booth (Chippenham, Wiltshire), together with defending World Champion, Kiera Byland (Bolton, Greater Manchester) take to the road and track in what will be a dynamic and challenging cycling competition.

In Athletics, multi medallist, Declan Manning (Bungay, Suffolk) and Sam Fernando (Cupar, Fife) fly the British colours as they launch their campaign for success in track and field.

The Cycling Team will be led by Tom A’ Hara (Skelmorlie, North Ayrshire) and the Athletics Team will be led by Tommy Patterson (Carluke, South Lanarkshire).

Declan Manning said:

“It is a great honour to be selected for the Global Games as it shows all the hard work is paying off. I am hoping to build on my success of last summer at the Inas European Games in Paris. I have dedicated several years of training to achieve my selection. Without UKSA supporting learning disability athletes none of this would be possible.”

Kiera Byland said:

“I’m looking forward to seeing other athletes from different countries again and being involved in my first Global Games. I am going there to win and to defend my current cycling titles as a Women’s World and European Champion. I want to make sure that there is a route for cyclists who have a learning disability to compete at this level. I want to inspire them and show that you have to train and commit just as much time and hard work to your sport as mainstream athletes. This is just a different route to compete.” 

Lauren Booth said:

“I’m really pleased and proud to have the chance to race in a GB kit. I’d love to win a medal. Being part of the team will be fun. It’s really important that cyclists with a learning disability are given the chance to race for GB and show that we can be included in events like the Global Games.”

Sam Fernando said:

“I’m nervous because I’ve never been to Australia before and I’m a little nervous about my races. I want to do well for my country and my club. I hope to get a medal in the Steeplechase. The 10,000m may be more difficult if there are lots of good people there. UKSA is the only way I can get international competition as my events are not available in other international competition.”

Tracey McCillen, Chief Executive UK Sports Association said:

“Congratulations to all four competitors. It wasn’t an easy task to qualify for selection, they have worked hard, and have big ambitions with medals firmly in their sights. I have no doubt they will represent Britain well both on and off the field of play. A word of thanks too to the staff supporting the team, all of whom are voluntary – we couldn’t do it without them.”

“The Global Games is a world-class event and the pinnacle of success for many athletes especially where the Paralympic Games does not include their event.  Our British athletes are well prepared, focussed and determined to do well.”

The Inas Global Games is scheduled 11 to 20 October 2019 in Brisbane, Australia.  Hosted by Sports Inclusion Australia over 1000 athletes are expected to compete in 10 official Inas sports.

The Global Games is the world’s biggest elite sports event for athletes with intellectual impairments and is held every four years. There are over 80 countries in membership of Inas. Alongside the Global Games, the Cricket Tri Nations Series will take place in Brisbane.

The UK Sports Association (UKSA) is the only official Great Britain member of Inas.

Photography credit: UK Sports Association