Sunday 30th March witnessed the Islands very first wheelchair racing workshop, delivered by England Athletics Tutor and wheelchair racing coach Paul Moseley. Eleven people attended the workshop, some of whom were prospective athletes as well as coaches interested in delivering sessions and other volunteers keen to get involved in the sport. The event has some very technical elements to consider but the course was delivered with enthusiasm and humour which certainly inspired the athletes in attendance, whom all left the workshop wanting more.
The Isle of Man Athletics Association are most grateful to IOM Sport who made a significant donation to help purchase four new racing wheel chairs to offer new opportunities in athletics for people with disabilities which has made this session possible. Athletic Development Officer Trevor Christian said:
'the Island is really working hard to provide accessible sports sessions for everyone and the IOMAA is delighted to be able to offer opportunities in wheel chair racing. Last year the IOM Athletics Championships had some of its first Wheel Chair events. With the addition of the new chairs we hope to see a growth in the number of people taking part in Wheelchair racing and look to provide training sessions to help facilitate this.'
If you are interested in Wheelchair racing either as a competitor or as a coach or helper then please contact Trevor Christian on +44 1624 688576 or email trevor.christian@gov.im. The IOMAA plan to deliver workshops in ambulant and seated throws in the not too distant future to offer a more comprehensive programme of activities in athletics. Watch this space.
