A Market Drayton gymnast made a heroic return from the Great British Special Olympics in Leicester last week with not one medal – but three.
Fourteen-year-old Elizabeth Cooper, who lives with proud parents the Rev David Cooper and her mum Ros, narrowly missed out on a fourth medal when she finished seventh after competing on the beam.
The Great British Special Olympics are held, just like the Olympic Games, every four years, with athletes competing in events such as gymnastics, athletics and swimming.
They aim to help people with intellectual difficulties develop self-confidence and social skills through sport.
Elizabeth, who attends the Cheshire Academy of Integrated Sport and Arts in Crewe, won a gold medal for her floor routine, a silver on the bars and a bronze for her vault.
Her mum, Ros, said: “I am absolutely delighted. It was such a great occasion. The Special Olympics is actually the biggest sporting event taking place in the world this year but unfortunately it doesn’t get a lot of press coverage.
“Elizabeth did really well as did a few others who attend her club in Crewe. The event gives folk with learning difficulties the chance to show what they are good at.
“A lot of them are very high achievers, there are many things they can’t do but there are a lot of things they can do and they do them very well.”
Ros said: “The Prime Minister Gordon Brown was also there congratulating the athletes on their achievements. He said the event is a celebration of what people can do rather than what they can’t.
“Elizabeth had a wonderful time and we are very proud of her.”
For information on Elizabeth’s academy in Crewe call 01270 255355, email cheshireacadem@aol.com or visit www.disabilitysport.com
