A pair of competitive Leicestershire twins picked up an impressive medal haul at the National Junior Athletics Championship this weekend.
11-year-olds Jack and Lola Ramsden, won three golds and three silver medals at the event, which saw disabled young athletes from across the country compete at the University of Warwick Athletics Track in Coventry.
Jack struck gold in his discus and 100 metre events, while he was runner-up in the 60 metre sprint. His sister won gold in the javelin event and took home silver in the 100 and 60 metre events.
Saturday was their first ever appearance at the championships, after they were put forward for entry by staff at their school, Desford Community Primary.
An elated Jack said: “I am very proud that I have done so well this weekend but I am pleased it is finished as I cannot feel my legs after the running!”
Lola said: “It was so much fun and I am happy to have won the medals.”
Proud mum Nicki said: “They were really excited to come here and it’s been really lovely watching everybody take part. They were shaking hands and encouraging each other. I’m really emotional because they (Jack and Lola) did so well.”
Across the two days, 150 young disabled athletes from across England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland took part in more than 60 races and more than 20 field events. The event was attended by hundreds of volunteers and spectators, including Sport England’s Chair and Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman and Coventry’s Paralympic star Kare Adenegan.
Kare visited the track to cheer on competitors in a championships that she has previously competed at.
She said of the event: “It was always an important part of my season. Even though I had things like World Championships to go to as well, this event was always really important for me to come to and put times down.”
Adam Blaze, Chief Executive of Activity Alliance said: “We know how important these Championships are for young disabled people, but to see it in action this weekend was incredibly inspiring. From those picking up multiple gold medals to youngsters competing in their first race, one thing was apparent – the power of a truly inclusive event.
“We’re sure to see some of these young stars become international competitors. But more importantly every single young person got to enjoy the benefits of a quality experience with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Visit: https://www.activityalliance.org.uk/ to find out more.
