A new wheelchair racing group is looking for members to sign up ahead of its launch on August 21.
The Hampshire Wheelchair Racing Group is open to wheelchair users, as well as athletes who cannot walk or run unaided. Organisers hope to attract people who want to start training and racing, without having to wait to access or fund their own equipment.
The group has been set up by England Athletics and the Hampshire McCain athletics network, and is supported by Sport Hampshire and IOW and Winchester University. Funding from Accentuate has allowed the group to buy three racing chairs, a set of indoor rollers and other equipment, which will be available for use. Local coaches will also be on hand with handy hints and tips.
Following the launch, monthly sessions will take place on Sundays from 10am to 12pm and athletes will be helped to pay for for their own chairs as well as to train regularly with their local club.
Liz Purbrick, England Athletics Disability Athletics Support Officer, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for disabled athletes in Hampshire and the IOW and surrounding areas to get involved in athletics and for new and existing coaches to learn more about coaching wheelchair racing.”
Peter Hull MBE, Hampshire & IOW Disability Sports Development Officer, said: "This is the first time that wheelchair racing has had this level of support in Hampshire. Racing wheelchairs are very expensive and so in the past there has always been a financial barrier to the sport.
"Now however, thanks to the support from Accentuate and England Athletics, the Wheelchair Racing Group will give people the chance not only to borrow chairs for training on the day, but also direct them to regular coaching sessions. This is great news for disability sport in the area and I'm keen to meet anyone interested in giving it a go."
The event is open to any interested coaches and athletes who are wheelchair users or who cannot walk or run unaided. For more information, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 07850514936.
