Disability athletics boost for Gloucester’s athletics track
Gloucester’s Blackbridge Jubilee Athletics Track in Podsmead has taken significant steps to achieve its ambition of being recognised as a leading venue for disability athletics. They have been supported by the arrival of three brand new racing wheelchairs and a specialist throwing frame.
Bob Purcell, Managing Director of Gloucester Athletics Management Ltd said:
“One of our main aims has always been to make the track available to all sectors of the community and to establish ourselves as a focal point for disability athletics in the region. We have already installed tie-down points for wheelchairs in the throwing circles and the addition of the throwing frame and racing wheelchairs means we can offer a wide range of athletics events for people with a disability. The purchase of the wheelchairs is hugely important because the cost of just a standard racing chair can exceed £2,000 which is prohibitive for many people.”
Purcell continues:
"The 2012 Paralympic Games in London raised the profile of disability sports to unprecedented levels, yet the opportunities for people to participate in some sports are not as widespread as they could be. To help generate interest locally, we have appointed David Robinson to our board of trustees, with special responsibility for Disability Athletics and he has undertaken a huge amount of work in the short time he has been with us.”
David Robinson adds: “
"Having worked for many years with young adults with learning disabilities, the provision of sporting opportunities for disabled people is something that is very close to my heart. We’re building up an impressive array of specialist equipment at Blackbridge for people to use and will soon be holding a workshop that will allow coaches in the area to qualify to teach people with a disability. We would love to hear from anybody with a disability who would like to get involved with athletics.”
Anyone wanting to find out more about disability athletics at the Blackbridge track should contact Bob Purcell in the first instance on 01452 417990.
Image: GloucesterCitizen
