The CHANGINGTIMES

THE NEWSLETTER OF SCOTTISH DISABILITY SPORT SEPTEMBER 2005 Leading the development of sport and physical recreation for people with disabilities throughout Junior Swimmers Secure British Title

Following the success of the Scottish swimmers In this issue… in Athens, it was the turn of the 24 strong junior squad to show that the future is bright Branch News… 2 for disability in Scotland. For the first time since 1999 the junior Scottish team Taster events proved brought the British title back across the border. popular… 2 A great number of national titles and personal best times contributed to the overall success. 10-pin Bowling League a winner… 2 With wins in the boys freestyle and medley Junior Swimming Champions with the trophy relays and a second in the open relay more Lothian DS Fund raising points were being added to the Scottish total Neillis, Melissa de Sousa, Allan Tully and captain, hits a new high 3 all the time. The young Scot’s held second position Angela McCowan were competing in their final for most of the weekend and it was only during junior event and can be proud of the fact they Borders multi-sport the latter stages of the final session that they finished on top. With a crop of new young festival a success… 4 took pole position and never looked back. swimmers entering the national squads and being selected for the Scottish teams, there Events and Reports… 5 Five members of the squad, Keith Gray, John certainly is a promising future ahead. European Boccia an exceptional event… 5 Tanni Supports Promising Young Scottish Athletes World success for Young athletes from across Scotland travelled to Grangemouth athletics stadium on 23 and 24 April Scots in US… 6 for a weekend of coaching and workshops. Thirteen youngsters with physical disabilities and visual impairments, aged between 10 and 18 received coaching from Scottish Disability Sports’ top coaches Largs play host to in the various athletic disciplines. Shinty Camp… 6 The highlight of the weekend for the athletes was the attendance Paralympians do of Dame Tanni Grey Thompson, Scotland Proud… 7 undoubtedly one of the top athletes in the world. Tanni found ‘Jim the Swim’ goes from time in her busy schedule to come strength to strength… 8 to Scotland and work with this squad of talented young athletes. As well as the important technical Scots Curlers gain second and practical on track advice, Tanni world title… 9 also gave an inspirational talk about her career and her life in athletics. Scots Footballers fly the Junior Athletics Weekend Group April 2005 flag in Denmark … 10 Following this very successful weekend, 10 of these young athletes competed at the SDS National Athletics Championships at Scotstoun on Saturday 21 May. For most it was their first opportunity SDS welcomes new to participate in the National Championships. The young athletes performed exceptionally well faces … 10 throughout the day with medal success on the track for Laura Macneil, Gordon Smith, Lea Ali and John Wardrope. This was followed with success in the field for Graeme Paterson from the Borders. Events Calendar… 11 Hopefully this will be the first step in developing Scotland’s next generation of athletes to follow in the footsteps of former high performance athletes with a disability. Contacts… 12 2 BRANCHNEWS

Aberdeen Disability Sport Wheelchair Day Football for Fun A day was held on Saturday 26 Thanks to funding from the Big Lottery Project, children in Aberdeen had March in Curl Aberdeen, the city’s new ice rink. the chance to learn new football skills free of charge. The sessions are delivered by coaches from Aberdeen Football Club, Dons in the community team.

Children with a physical, sensory or learning disability were invited to come and learn skills such as passing, dribbling and shooting as well as playing fun games in a supportive environment. Thirty children are attending on a weekly basis. Sessions will commence again on 22 August.

If you are interested in attending these sessions, please contact Andrinne Craig on 01224 814788 or [email protected] David and Murray on the Ice This event saw 22 wheelchair curlers experiencing the sport for the first time. In the morning local curling coaches were tutored on how to deliver the sport to wheelchair users and in the afternoon two sessions where held for players to come and try the sport. Ena Stevenson and Jane Sanderson led the day, with demonstrations and coaching by Murray and Evelyn Cran and Alan Spence. Thanks to all for your participation. Aberdeen City Council funded the event, which was co-ordinated with the support of Graham Smith, Curling Development Officer. Weekly coaching sessions are currently being organised to commence in September in line with the start of the Aberdeen football kids with awards – along with Ewan Robb from new curling season. Aberdeen Football Club Aberdeenshire Disability Sport – Christmas 2004 Children’s Fun Day

This event was held on 3 December 2004 giant inflatables. Attendance on the day classes offering many of the activities they at the Beach Leisure Centre Complex. The reached 240 from 11 schools across experienced on the day. This was designed event was funded by the Disability Sports Aberdeenshire. to encourage children to stay physically Big Lottery Fund three year award to give active and gain all the other benefits that children with disabilities the opportunity The aim for the event was to give children involvement in sport can bring, such as social to access physical activity. Five activities with a disability a positive sporting interaction with other children, building self were on offer including ice-skating, experience. All participants received confidence and much more. trampolining, boccia, new age kurling and information on accessible local sports North Ayrshire Disability Sport – 10-Pin Bowling League

Having received a grant from the local council, the North Ayrshire and shields being donated by the George Steven Centre in Kilbirnie, Branch decided to contact members to gauge interest in starting Ayrshire. These were presented to the top three aggregate a 10-pin bowling league. The response was very encouraging with scores in two sections, the Learning Difficulties Section and the 43 people putting their names forward to take part. Physically Disabled Section. On average, 30 participants turned up over the 14 week period. Basebowl in Saltcoats, Ayrshire was identified as a location with sessions taking place every Friday morning from 11am. Everyone The league was so successful that those involved expressed a wish took part in two games each week, with the competition starting to continue playing after Christmas. A second league commenced on Friday 10 September 2004 and running through until on 28 January and ran until 29 April 2005. Again, the numbers 10 December 2004. A presentation day was held with trophies were healthy, 27 adults turning up on a weekly basis. BRANCHNEWS 3

Lothian Disability Sport

Disability Sports Co-ordinator Great Scottish Walk

Lothian Disability Sport (LDS) is delighted 19 June saw the to report that the branch now has a branch’s fund raiser, Disability Sport Co-ordinator, Suzanne Laing, Ken McGarrity, perform who took up post in May. Suzanne is another superhuman currently busy getting out and about making effort. Following on herself known to groups and individuals from the success of last involved in disability year’s Great Scottish sport locally and Walk, collecting nearly finding out what they £7000, he managed to do. This new post has organise over 130 been made possible people to walk in this as a result of financial year’s event in aid of assistance from the LDS. Fundraising this Great Scottish Walk Participants at the start four local authorities year was in the form of a competition, asking people to guess the number of walkers in Lothian and SDS, participating in the event. Sponsorship raised, together with proceeds from a competition together with funding Suzanne Laing based on the Walk and business sponsorship has resulted in the magnificent sum of from the branch itself. We are looking £16,500 raised for the branch. Particular thanks must go to HSBC (Scotland) and their forward to working closely with the local Regional Director, Jon Hartley, for providing a £250 holiday voucher for the winning authorities to help develop more grass roots competition entry and baseball caps for all LDS walkers. Not content with that they also opportunities. Suzanne can be contacted entered several teams of walkers on our behalf and contributed considerably to the final on 01875 619070 or slaing@eastlothian. total. Other prizes included two tickets to the Open Golf, a day at Musselburgh Races, gov.uk rounds of golf and tickets to Murrayfield and Tynecastle.

AGM

At the branch AGM in early June a good turn out saw the LDS Annual Awards presented for the second year. The standard of nominations was again very high and congratulations must go to this year’s winners – Senior Sports Person Jason Crosbie (swimming) Junior Sports Person Alan Gray (swimming) Team / Club Award Lothian Special Olympics Football Club It is no coincidence that swimmers featured strongly for the second year in a row as Lothian currently has a very talented squad of swimmers – inspired no doubt by Jim Anderson MBE.

Multi Sports Day Peregrines Recognised at National Awards Ceremony

Over 30 young people enjoyed the multi Scotland hosted its inaugural National sports day organised by the Lothian branch Volunteer Recognition Awards at Edinburgh Castle on which was held on 3 April at Beeslack High Sunday 12 June 2005. Gary Smith was short listed for School, Penicuik. The day began with an an award in the Volunteer of the Year category and Aerobic Warm-up with volunteers, parents Simon Ramsay was short listed in the School Age and carers joining in! They then had to Volunteer of the Year category. choose three activities from swimming, Both East Lothian nominees are members of Musselburgh football, , goalball, boccia and new Basketball Club and the East Lothian Peregrines. Fourteen age kurling. year old Simon, was nominated for his contribution to There was a great attendance with almost school and youth basketball as a referee and valued 20 coaches and volunteers in attendance. volunteer. Gary was nominated for his contribution to The afternoon finished off with a session coaching able bodied and wheelchair basketball in East of kick rounders. Many thanks to coaches Lothian. Neither East Lothian nominee was awarded Gary Smith, Lynne Sturgeon, Jim Thomson the overall award in their category, however, to be short and Ian Ramage, as well as volunteers from listed for the prestigious national award is clearly an Beeslack for providing such an enjoyable honour in itself. afternoon. Gary Smith and Simon Ramsay at National Awards 4 BRANCHNEWS

Scottish Borders Disability Sport

Scottish Borders Disability Sport is building disability sport. sport festival. This approach has helped to on a very successful multi-sport festival build a supportive volunteer network which attracted 130 young people. With these foundations firmly in place, the necessary to help coaches provide quality summer sports programme consisted of and progressive sessions. Participants were introduced to a wide two three-day multi-sports camps in range of sports including football, golf, tennis targeted sports. These sports were chosen Scottish Borders had a successful day at the and boccia. The festival was well supported by young people with a view to more regular Championships held at by local schools who made sure that the participation in the future. Sessions were Tollcross, , where many new children were transported safely to and run by qualified coaches and supported by swimmers competed for the first time. from Tweedbank Sports Centre. Follow up staff who were involved in the original multi Once again Borders Disability Sport opportunities in the benefitted from positive sports have been co- media coverage, which ordinated to allow the has been instrumental young people to in raising the profile of continue their sporting disability sport. It is our experience and further intention to continue develop their skills. the trend of introducing Borders media new athletes into these coverage of this programmes and programme was superb building on the with regular reports in numbers competing in local newspapers, radio major events within and on television. ‘Team Borders’. Borders Disability Sport has benefited greatly Multi-sports Day from this coverage Tennis participants raising the profile of March 2005

Disability Sport Fife

There were significant changes in the office bearers at the DSF largest to date. Never before has there been so much interest and AGM of 2005. Richard Brickley became the Association’s first enthusiasm for a Special Olympic event in the Kingdom. This has Honorary President and Paul Noble moved into the Chairman’s been a very special summer for athletes with a learning disability seat with Alex Thornburn filling Paul’s shoes as Treasurer. David in Fife. Thomson continues as Secretary and after 27 years the association has its first athlete Chairman. It was with great sadness that DSF members heard of the passing of one of its key volunteers. Mike Broderick was the driving force The DSF Image Project led by Penny Bateman is now starting to behind the sport of archery in Fife both as an athlete and a coach pay dividends and more juniors are being offered access to regular and his support and friendship will be sadly missed. physical activity including sport. DSF has submitted an application for another Big Lottery funded programme, ‘Active Futures’ and SportSability training is still as popular as ever in Fife. Anna Tizzard if successful hopes to offer similar opportunities to 17-24 year who works for Fife Council gained funding from the Same As You olds within the Fife community. Programme (Social Work) to run a series of SportSability training courses within Fife. Since the first course in November 2002, DSF is one of the branches leading on the SDS Ethics and Equity over 250 people have been trained to use the SportSability Initiative and Maureen McSeveney has been appointed as the lead equipment. To meet the demands for SportSability equipment Fife volunteer co-ordinating child protection procedures. Anna Tizzard Council also purchased additional equipment which is now located is leading on the Fife SportSability programme and as always Fife in most of Fife’s Leisure Centres and used regularly by people teams and individuals have been successful in major competitive with a disability. events at home and overseas. The SportSability training is led by SDS, and Fife DSF has been involved with the Special Olympics movement for Council staff. For further information, please contact Anna Tizzard 25 years. This year DSF sent a 121 strong squad to Glasgow, the on 01592 415847. BRANCHNEWS 5

Dundee Disability Sport Therapies Group PAMIS In partnership with Tayside Health Board Physiotherapists, a therapies group has been PAMIS (Profound and Multiple Impairment established at Menzieshill Community Centre. Gordon Quinton, Disability Sports Service) and Gordon Quinton, Disability Officer supports this group which meets every Friday Sports Officer have been working together morning between 10am - 12pm. The individuals have to look at a Motor Activities Programme a choice of physical and sporting activities, relaxation, for people with Profound and Multiple gentle movement and Makaton classes. Learning Disabilities (PMLD). This session is only open to individuals who are referred A Workshop and Taster session was via the Health Board. The support that Gordon provides arranged for 26 March at Douglas Sports is in sport and physical recreation, whereby individuals Centre for parents and individuals with have the choice of boccia and new age kurling. This is PMLD. Motor Activities are basic motor a very successful group and it is envisaged that the skills for people with PMLD. The programme range of activities will be expanded in the future. includes three levels of support for Gordon with participants at the therapies day, individuals and all activities are related to playing Boccia a particular sporting skill. Highland Disability Sport

When the opportunity arose, thanks to funding additional needs children. Once the results received from Scottish Disability Sport and from the question- Since moving from Dingwall Academy as a PE sportscotland, for someone to take on the naires have been teacher she has found the work to be task of building the Support for Young People collated, a develop- challenging and very rewarding. She also acts in the Highlands it was not hard to identify ment programme will as an Active Schools Coordinator. This latest someone who would fit the bill. It required be established during role has given her a bigger role to play around someone with knowledge and understanding the autumn term the Highlands and she has just had the returns of curriculum issues within the school structure offering practical back from questionnaires sent out to head and who was PE qualified with a passion for support on inclusion teachers, parents and pupils to offer support Lee Duff demonstrates getting children with disabilities more active issues for main- to schools and parents. This will help to build the hula hoop! more often. stream schools and on adapting sports to suit databases of willing participants who wish to all types of disabilities. Lee spent the first week Lee Duff, who hails from Lochaber, has been find out about events locally and nationally of her school holidays assisting with some of working part time with Drummond School and to help schools identify areas of her pupils who took part in the Special in Inverness for the last seven years and has development and educational support for staff Olympics in Glasgow. relished the opportunity of working with and classroom helpers.

Puerto de Varzim was the venue for the BC3 Chris Elliott, Elderslie stage. A team of new staff supported the 2005 European Boccia Championships from BC4 Stephen McGuire, Hamilton players and were enthused by the sport 11 - 19 June. Hosted by the Portuguese and the quality of play at this level. The players had an excellent individual Spastic Association, the event played host competition with Bernadette and Chris The squad has a lot of hard work to do to the world’s top teams, pairs and individual qualifying to the last 16. New players were between now and the World athletes. challenged and excited by the quality of Championships next year. Monthly training 121 athletes from 18 countries competed the competition. sessions are held at Stirling University and at the event with 30 of the athletes we are always looking for potential players In the BC3 Pairs Alistair and Chris missed competing for the first time. Scotland was for the future. This is a great opportunity out by 1 point to go through to the last 8 represented by a team of developing and for young people to become involved in and the team who worked extremely well experienced athletes: the sport of boccia, with the added prospect together did not qualify from their group. of representing GB in the BC1 Gerry Connelly, Perth All players enjoyed the competition and Paralympics in 2012. BC2 Bernadette Leslie, Cumnock it was a great learning experience for the BC2 Kristen MacMaster, Dundee athletes, making them more aware of what For further information on Scottish Boccia BC3 Alistair McGibbon, Cumbernauld is required to compete on the International contact: Jacqueline Lynn on 01786-432333. 6 EVENTSANDREPORTS

World Success for Scots in US

Athletes, bowlers and swimmers made up the Scottish team that participated in the CP-ISRA World Championships in July. A 16 strong team of athletes with 9 support staff took part in the World Championship event for athletes with Cerebral Palsy which was held at Connecticut College, New London between 2 - 10 July. Almost 1,000 athletes from 36 nations competed in the event which was being organised by the USA’s National Disability Sports Alliance. Scotland returned home with an impressive haul of 13 Gold, 14 Silver and 7 Bronze medals which included numerous personal bests and a new British record. The bulk of the medals came in the pool where Scotland’s eight-strong team were in impressive form. Continuing his run of success following the Athens Paralympics, Jim Anderson from Broxburn amassed an impressive 4 individual Gold medals despite being run close in all four CP World Champs Team Scotland by a rejuvenated Alan McGregor. Sean Fraser from Edinburgh and Aberdeen’s Katie Haining 400m. International debutante, Martin Thomson, returned home to were also in inspired form, winning 3 Gold Paisley with 2 Silver medals from his 5,000m and 10,000m races and medals each with the added bonus of a new former world record holder, Pauline Latto from Glenrothes also British record of 6.27.81 for Katie in the 400m finished with a Silver medal in the javelin. Freestyle. Other medal successes in the pool came from Gary Brown, Alan Gray, John Hick The Scottish bowling team of Ian Faughnan, Elaine Hunter, Fraser and Alasdair McArthur. Relay success was also Mathieson and Neil Shirley had to combat injury, illness and playing achieved with Gold in the 20 point 4 x 50m Sean Fraser and conditions which were less than favourable. Competition in the bowls Freestyle and Medley races and Silver in the Katie Haining with event was fierce and as a result, only Musselburgh’s Neil Shirley 34 point 4 x 100m Freestyle and Medley races. their medals progressed to the semi finals where he narrowly missed out on the It was testimony to the hard work of Jen Quinton and her team of Bronze medal. coaches that every member of the swimming team succeeded in The Scottish squad were well supported by a dedicated team of winning a medal during the Championships. support staff, who gave up their time to travel to Connecticut and Scots were also successful on the track and field at Connecticut SDS would like to thank all these individuals most sincerely. A full list College with Keith Gardner from Airdrie winning Gold in the discuss of results from the CP-ISRA World Championships is currently available and Livingston’s Stephen Payton winning Silver in the 100m, 200m and on the SDS website, www.scottishdisabilitysport.com Shinty a big hit in Largs

The second annual National First Shinty the atmosphere electric and the spectators the title of National Champions by 2-1. Camp for children with a learning disability buzzing with anticipation as the games got proved to be a huge success this year with underway. At the end of play Scottish Disability Sport, 65 children from eight schools congregating Chief Executive, Gavin MacLeod awarded at the National Sports Centre, Inverclyde, The league stages were tight with one league medals and prizes to all the participants, and to take part in two days of shinty coaching, going down to goal difference before the the winning trophy to a delighted Drummond culminating in a pulsating competition. semi finalists emerged. Drummond team. (Inverness), Drummore (Oban), Park (East The in partnership Ayrshire), and James Reid School (North The event showed the true spirit of sport. with sportscotland and Scottish Disability Ayrshire) competed to get into the final. With friendships made and laughter and fun Sport combined to deliver the event, which the key components of this festival of shinty, was financially supported by the Sportsman’s In pulsating semi finals, Park came from two which can only get bigger and better for Charity. This partnership has now seen over goals down to defeat James Reid School 4- next year. 400 children with a learning disability 3 with an extra time golden goal. In the introduced to the sport of shinty. second semi final, Drummond School If any other schools or branches wish to defeated Drummore by 2-1 to set up a classic take up the sport, please contact Emma Day one involved the players being taught North of Scotland v South of Scotland Final. O’Callaghan, Development Manager: Disability the skills of shinty by some of the Camanachd Sport, sportscotland on 0131 472 7555 or Association’s top coaches. On the second In a final, which was a credit to both teams, Garry Reid, Youth Development Manager for day, the players assembled to be piped into Drummonds strength and determination saw Shinty on 01397 700868. the hall for the start of the competition, with them edge out the skilful Park team, taking EVENTSANDREPORTS 7

Paralympians Do Scotland Proud

For 17 glorious days in On the penultimate day of the September, 1,568 , Stephen Payton ran a athletes from 136 countries season’s best time of 52.32 across the globe arrived in seconds in the T38 400m final Athens to compete in 19 to clinch Bronze at the track. different sports. The XII Back in the Aquatic Centre Paralympic Games in Athens two of Scotland’s swimmers had much to live up to struck Gold once again. Maggi following the success of the McEleny won her third medal Sydney games four years of the Games as part of the earlier. However, the Athens women’s 20 point 4 x 50m Games did not disappoint. medley team. The final word Paralympians in Athens 2004 at the pool should surely go Fifteen Scots embarked on a to Jim ‘the swim’ Anderson memorable journey as part of the Great to retain his Sydney title by 0.31 seconds. who capped off a marvelous Games by Britain team. For Mhairi Love, Aileen This was despite bumping his head on the clinching his fourth Gold in the S2 50m McGlynn and Joanne Pitt this was their first wall at the turn and even Paul Noble in the Backstroke. Paralympic Games. In contrast, Isabel commentary box was almost speechless. Newstead was competing in her 7th On Day 6 Scotland’s greatest ever female Paralympic Games. swimmer with a disability, Maggi McEleny took Silver in the SB3 50m breaststroke. It was Aileen McGlynn who got Team GB’s medal haul up and running on Day 1 of the By the end of the first week of competition Games. Together with pilot Ellen Hunter the Scots medal tally had increased to 9 they clinched Gold in the B1-3 tandem 1km following further success in the pool. Mhairi time trial with a new world record – not a Love secured Silver and a new British record bad way to start your Paralympic career! as part of the 4x50m Freestyle 20 point team. In the men’s equivalent, Kenny Cairns Day 2 of the Games arrived along with a also added a New British Record and Bronze second Scottish Gold. Isabel Newstead medal to his long list of successes throughout successfully retained her Paralympic title in his impressive swimming career. the SH1 Air Pistol event, edging out her Chinese Taipei opponent by only 1.7 points. Into Week 2 and Jim ‘the swim’ Anderson as he was now becoming known, claimed Jim Anderson poolside Not satisfied with being the first Scot to his hat-trick of Gold medals with success On the final day of competition Anne claim Gold in Athens, by the end of Day 3 in the S2 50m freestyle final. A fantastic Woffinden just missed out on team Bronze Aileen McGlynn become the first Scot to feat for Jim – could the Games get any in a close play-off match with Spain, as Team claim Silver, in the B1-3 tandem sprint. better? GB lost out 7 - 5.

Day 4 marked the start of a fantastic Games’ There was a familiar Paralympic sight once Jim Buchanan, Pauline Latto, Karen Lewis- for Jim Anderson. A strong secured Jim his again on Day 9 of the Games as Maggi Archer and Joanne Pitt put in some excellent first Athens Gold in the S2 100m Freestyle. McEleny took to the medal rostrum to performances at the Games and will no Jim’s second Gold medal in the S2 100m collect Silver in the SM4 150m individual doubt have enjoyed the Athens event. Freestyle. medley. Also securing her second medal of Unfortunately illness prevented Lara the Games was swimmer Mhairi Love with Ferguson from adding to her medal tally Jim’s second Gold medal followed in style Silver in the S6 400m freestyle. This was a from Sydney but hopefully she will still be on Day 5 when he smashed his own world great way for Mhairi to round off her first, a high performance swimmer come . record by a staggering 13 seconds in the and surely not her last, trip to the S2 200m Freestyle. The success in the pool Paralympics. As the Paralympic Games of Athens came continued on Day 5 when Andrew Lindsay to a close, the athletes, staff and supporters took to the pool in the S7 100m Backstroke. Following a defeat by Korea in the semi- who had all attended the Games and had Having set a new Paralympic record in the finals of the men’s W1 Team Event, Sandy been involved in supporting the athletes in heats, bumping 0.6 seconds off the previous Gregory’s team lost out on Archery Bronze the build up, could all hold their heads high record which Andrew himself had set in in a close match against the team from the knowing that they had done themselves and Sydney, he pulled out a fantastic last 25m USA. Scotland proud. 8 EVENTSANDREPORTS

5th Annual Summer Sports A Big Year for Big Jim

Camp – Biggest Yet! As the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens drew closer, not even in his wildest dreams could Jim Anderson The SDS Summer Sports Camp has continued have imagined the year that lay ahead. As with any to grow over recent years and the 2005 camp world class sportsman, the focus of the past four years’ was no different with 34 young people with training was fast approaching. The XII Paralympic Games physical disabilities and sensory impairment had returned home to a place of legends and heroes. from across Scotland converging on the After the smoke had cleared from the fireworks of National Sports Centre Inverclyde for the the closing ceremony, it was Jim Anderson who would three day residential programme. Amongst be returning home a legend and hero. To return from the attendees at the camp were 12 young the Paralympic Games with a Gold medal is a great people who were attending for the first time. achievement. But to return with 4 Gold medals and a Jim with friends in Athens new world record is simply outstanding. These young sports enthusiasts travelled the The first of the many honours to be bestowed on Jim on his return home from Athens was length and breadth of Scotland to attend the to be crowned BBC Scotland’s Sports Personality of the Year for 2004. To be nominated camp from Monday 25 - Wednesday 27 July alongside other world class Scot’s such as Colin Montgomerie, Chris Hoy and Shirley Robertson and had the opportunity to participate in 12 is a great honour for any sportsperson. To then poll 37% of the vote from the general public different sports and activities including is credit to the achievements of Jim as Scotland’s top swimmer with a disability. athletics, curling, football and table tennis. By Following the recognition from the Scottish public, it was the turn of the sports journalists taking part in such a comprehensive from across the UK to award Jim the Bill McGowran Trophy which recognises the achievements programme the athletes get the chance to of an athlete with a disability. As 2004 turned into 2005 Jim was awarded an MBE in the try out some new sports and find a sport Queen’s New Years Honours List. A well deserved reward for a man who has taken swimming that they can pursue further. to new levels over his 15 year career.

One of the highlights of the camp was the Since the Paralympics Jim has continued to perform on the World stage and rounded off an presentation by double Paralympic medallist amazing 12 months with amazing 4 individual and 2 relay Gold medals at the CP World Aileen McGlynn who spoke to the young Championships in New London, Connecticut in July. athletes about her involvement in cycling and Congratulations Jim for all the success that your hard work and dedication has deserved. the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens.

The friendly colour war competition went Special Olympics 2005, Glasgow right down to the wire and finished with a tie between the green team led by Anna Tizzard and Jed Renilson and Lara Ferguson and Benny Lawries yellow team. With points being awarded throughout the camp for sportsmanship as well as performances within the specific sports the competition there were many points to be gained for your team.

The strong staff team in attendance helped the new young athletes settle into summer camp life very quickly. Even as they were On the track at the Glasgow Special Olympics Happy Volunteers in Glasgow heading out of the door already the question What a fantastic Games Glasgow hosted for one of serious competition, fun and friendships was being asked… when is next year’s camp? Special Olympics Great Britain. The logistics and with the weather being brilliant all week of supporting 2452 athletes, 980 coaches, for many of the 900 Scots in attendance 1500 volunteers, 6500 traveling parents, 23 personal bests were achieved during the Games. sports, 11 sporting venues and 5500 packed lunches daily, says it all. For many the real face of the Games were the volunteers who ensured all the sports, The Opening Ceremony at Celtic Park, results, entertainment, transport, housing and supported by a crowd of 20,000 who were food services happened. All had been entertained by Texas, Lucie Silvas, Robert Post disclosure checked and trained in disability and the Glasgow Chorus, was a great occasion awareness and were a credit to Glasgow. with all the Regional teams marching on. The Closing Ceremony, which became a private It was a privileged to be there and our thanks party for 10,000 at Glasgow Green, was an go to Glasgow City Council for hosting a very ideal climax to the Games. professional and friendly Games. Summer Camp group 2005 The atmosphere throughout the sports were Gordon McCormack, Games Director EVENTSANDREPORTS 9

Second World Title for Scots Curlers Wheelchair Basketball Braehead Ice Rink was the venue for the World Wheelchair Curling Championships during Scottish Cup Final January which saw a record 16 nations competing in the week long event. As reigning World Champions and playing on home soil, the pressure was very much on the Scottish quintet of (), Michael McCreadie, Tam Killin, and Ken Dickson. However, The inaugural wheelchair basketball pressure is something that the Scottish rink has come to live with in recent years and at the Scottish Cup Final between Ayrshire end of a gruelling week of competition, they emerged as World Champions. The Scots were Rolling Cougars and West of Scotland also undefeated throughout the championships for the second year in a row. Our congratulations was played as part of ’s go to the new World Championship winning rink and to the coaching team of Jane Sanderson Cup Final weekend. The match was the and Ena Stevenson. product of the collaborative partnership working between the Scottish Wheelchair Following a very difficult group section, Scotland qualified Basketball Development Group, in first place and were drawn against an experienced basketballscotland and Scottish Disability Swiss rink for the semi final, a repeat of the 2004 final. Sport. These partners have worked to A closely contested match saw Scotland snatch victory establish the basketballscotland National with the final stone in the extra end. In the final the Wheelchair Basketball League this season Scots came up against a Danish rink who had been improving steadily as the competition had progressed. and have provided a number of free In another tight match, the Danes led 6:5 coming into coaching clinics across the country. The the final end. With only one stone left for each team, East Lothian Peregrines and SDS Wizards Scotland were lying two when the Danish skip clipped make up the four team national league, a short stone to leave team Scotland 7:6 winners and Angie Malone – Curling in Action competing at central venue fixtures World Champions. The competition had attracted good throughout the season. crowds throughout the week who were kept on the edge of their seats to the very end. While the Wheelchair Basketball Scottish All in attendance were in Cup Final marked a significant milestone agreement that the 2005 for basketball in Scotland, the event was Championships were a huge saddened by the death of one of the success and our congratulations sport’s most honoured and respected go to Kirsty Letton and her figures. Denis Bonnar died on 29 March outstanding organising committee. The level of support that the 2005 following a brief and sudden illness. wheelchair game receives is quite He had been involved in wheelchair staggering and this was epitomised basketball and disabled sport for over 25 by the 300 volunteers who gave years. A much respected figure in the up their time throughout the week sport, he will be missed by family and friends and by teammates and opponents World Curling Champions January 2005 of the championships. across the country. The inaugural As a result of the Scottish success at Braehead, team GB will now be number one seeds for Wheelchair Basketball Scottish Cup Final the 2006 Torino Winter Paralympic Games, where the sport of wheelchair curling will make was played in tribute to Denis Bonnar. its debut. At this time, seven Scots are involved in the selection process of the GB team for Torino. The team of five to represent GB at these games will be selected in November and The first quarter saw the Cougars take we wish all those involved every success in Torino. the upper hand and by half time they had At a domestic level, the Scottish Wheelchair Curling Championships were held at the Galleon opened up a 7 point lead. The third period Leisure Centre, Kilmarnock from 1 - 3 April, supported for the second year in succession by saw the West dig deep and start to make East Ayrshire Council and East Ayrshire Sports Council. A record 12 teams from across inroads into the Cougars lead. With 90 Scotland competed over the weekend in a two group round robin format leading to final seconds left on the clock the West had qualification matches. A closely contested final was fought between Frank Duffy’s rink from narrowed the lead to 1 point, however, Kinross and Alex Harvey’s Galleon rink playing on home ice. On the day, Frank’s rink of Ken they were unable to take the lead in the Dickson, Murray Cran and Margaret Easton came out on top and received the match and the Cougars maintained their Trophy from SDS Wheelchair Curling Co-ordinator, Kate Caithness. Depute Provost of East composure to win by 7 points (45-38). Ayrshire Council; Tommy Farrell was also in attendance to present the Jackie Lockhart Stevie Duff top scored for the game with Sportsmanship Trophy to Louise Dodd from Highland. 16 points for West of Scotland, but was Wheelchair curling has become one of the fastest growing sports for people with a disability closely followed by Gary Davidson with in Scotland and beyond and there is little doubt that much of the credit for this success must 15 points for the Cougars. As was fitting go to Kate Caithness. Her boundless energy and enthusiasm has driven the sport forward, for the occasion, Denis Bonnar’s wife, and with the support of the RCCC, has provided wheelchair curling with a secure foundation Ann, collected the Scottish Cup on behalf for the future. of the Ayrshire Rolling Cougars. 10 EVENTSANDREPORTS

Denmark Date for Footballers Wheelchair Rugby News

SDS is delighted to welcome from 13 - 16 May. Scotland Michael Kerr of the Scottish Wildcats Stuart Sharp on board as the opened their account with a Wheelchair Rugby Team has been selected new Development Officer for victory over the host nation for the Great Britain long squad. Michael is Disability Football with the before succumbing to Holland, 22 years old and has been playing wheelchair Scottish Football Association the former World and rugby for about four years. He has also been (SFA). Stuart’s post has been Paralympic Champions, by 7- a member of the GB development squad for just over two years. The long squad was picked established as a partnership 3. In their final group match from a recent selection weekend which was initiative between SDS and the the Scots put up a spirited fight open to all wheelchair rugby players in Britain. SFA with a remit to encompass Stuart Devlin flying the flag against Finland but lost 8 - 4. in Denmark Michael attended the weekend mainly for the the development and This defeat left the Scots in experience but an excellent performance saw coordination of all football related activities the play off for the Bronze medal position him gain selection. The long squad will train for people with a disability. The establishment where they defeated the Danes for the second together at a number of training camps over of this post has been made possible thanks time by 8 - 6. the next 12 weeks at Stoke Mandeville to sponsorship from McDonalds and grant Hospital. During this time the squad will be aid through Sportsmatch. The Scottish squad went through a number whittled down to 12 players who will go on of training sessions in the run in to this to represent Great Britain in the forthcoming Stuart joins the SFA from a post of Sport and tournament and were accompanied on the European Championships in October. PE Co-ordinator with Stirling Council and trip by a team of experienced and qualified brings with him coaches as well as Everyone at SDS and the Scottish Wildcats eight years of an SFA appointed would like to take this opportunity to offer coaching physiotherapist. their full support and backing to Michael during this demanding time. experience This tournament including the provided the Scots Wheelchair rugby is open to anyone with a Queens Park with invaluable lower limb injury. Anyone who would like to under 17s and East international try the sport can get details from the SDS Renfrewshire experience and office or by calling Dave Rhoney on 01501 under 14s squads. paved the way for 825890. the future SDS wishes Stuart development of every success in Scotland CP football team in Copenhagen, May 2005 CP football in his new post and we look forward to building Scotland. SDS would wish to thank the Centre even stronger links with the SFA in the months for Sport and Recreation, University of and years ahead. Strathclyde for their support of the CP Football squad through the provision of training facilities One of Stuart’s first tasks was to lead the SDS at their Stepps campus. CP Football squad when they traveled to Denmark. Scotland joined international teams Any players or coaches interested in becoming from Denmark, Finland and Holland for a more involved with football for players with a friendly tournament based in Copenhagen disability can contact Stuart on 0141 616 6077. Michael on the ball Comings and Goings

The last few months have seen significant changes in the SDS office Assistant to the Director of Student Services. Joanne is a basketball with one semi departure and two new faces within the staff. fanatic and since moving to Edinburgh has been recruited by Polonia Phoenix Ladies Basketball Team. Joanne has made a big impression on It was with great sadness that we learned that our full time administrator the association since she took up post in March and everyone involved in the Edinburgh office, Cynthia Clare had taken the decision to retire. with SDS wishes her well and looks forward to working with her in Cynthia has kept us on the straight and narrow for so long now that the months and years ahead. it was difficult for us to envisage how we would cope without her. There was a certain degree of relief when Cynthia agreed to retain The final addition to the staff team in the Edinburgh office is the arrival an involvement with SDS on a one day a week basis and to keep on of Ailien Pallot as the new Finance Manager for the association. Ailien the post of Company Secretary. We do of course wish Cynthia every is working with the association one day per week and is undertaking happiness in her semi retirement and we thank her most sincerely a similar role for Scottish Volleyball. Ailien is also involved in sport for all her hard work and patience. in a voluntary capacity with Warrender Swimming Club where her two daughters are active members. The new voice at the end of the telephone in the Edinburgh office will be that of Joanne Riordan. Joanne is a native of County Kerry in I am sure that you will join us in welcoming our new recruits with Ireland and has joined SDS from the National University of Ireland, their wealth of expertise and experience to the association. Maynooth, County Kildare where she held the position of Executive CALENDAROFEVENTS 11

2005

Sport Day Date Activity Venue Time Attendees Sponsors Contacts

Lawn Bowls Saturday 3 Sept SDS Lawn Bowls Championship Westburn Park, 10.30 Branch and Area Aberdeen City Richard Brickley 2005 Aberdeen Teams Council 01592 415700

Athletics Wednesday 7 Sept SDS Scottish Championships Scotstoun 11.00 Regional Teams Janice Eaglesham 2005 for athletes with a Learning to 16.00 0141 287 0260 Disability

Football Wednesday 28 Sept SDS Scottish National Hamilton Palace Sports 10.30 Branch and Scottish Co-op Elaine McKenna 2005 11-a-side Football Grounds, Hamilton, to 16.00 Area Teams 01506 420320 Championships Glasgow Scott Dunbar 01698 476197

Swimming Saturday and 22 and 23 DSE Short Course Ponds Forge, Sheffield Scottish Team DSE Jen Quinton Sunday Oct 2005 Championships 01382 202039

Athletics Sunday 30 Oct 10Km Wheelchair Racing Jedburgh 10.30 Individuals Jed Renilson 2005 Championship 01896 754751

Swimming Wednesday 2 Nov SDS National Swimming Grangemouth Sports 11.00 Branch and Area Falkirk Council Norma Buchanan 2005 Championships for Junior Complex Teams 01592 415700 Blind and Physically Disabled Swimmers

Swimming Wednesday 16 Nov SDS National Swimming Tollcross Leisure 11.00 Branch and Area Norma Buchanan 2005 Gala for Juniors with a Centre, Glasgow to 17.00 Teams 01592 415700 Learning Disability

Boccia Saturday and 26 and 27 DSE National Boccia Greenbank, Liverpool Scottish Team DSE Organisers Jacqueline Lynn Sunday Nov 2005 Championships 01786 432333

Upcoming International Events

Date Competition Venue

4-11 September 2005 INAS World Swimming Championships Czech. Rep. 25 September - 1 October 2005 INAS World Athletics Championships Canberra 10-19 March 2006 Paralympic Winter Games Torino 15-26 March 2006 Commonwealth Games Melbourne 12 SCOTTISHDISABILITYSPORTCONTACTS

Sports Co-ordinators Head Office

Sport Co-ordinator Telephone The Administrator Scottish Disability Sport Archery Gwyn Jones 01450 870008 Caledonia House Angling John Hood 07749 492249 (M) South Gyle Edinburgh Athletics – LD Laura Smith 01307 475367 EH12 9DQ Athletics – PD and Blind John de Courcy 0131 651 6520 (W) 01506 852066 (H) Tel: 0131 317 1130 Fax: 0131 317 1075 Bowls Vacant e-mail: [email protected] Boccia Jacqueline Lynn 01786 432323 Cross Country John de Courcy 0131 651 6520 (W) Chief Executive Officer: Gavin Macleod National Development Officer: Curling (Wheelchair) Kate Caithness 01356 647212 Claire Mands Football – PD Vacant Administrator: Joanne Riordan Football – LD Elaine McKenna 01506 420320 Pool Richard Kermath 01828 628185 Fife Office Swimming – PD Jennifer Quinton 01382 202039 Swimming – LD Gordon Quinton 01382 202039 The Administrator Scottish Disability Sport Table Tennis David Fairholm 01968 660641 Fife Sports Institute Wheelchair Basketball Fraser Govan 01307 469283 Viewfield Road Wheelchair Road Racing Ian Mirfin 01592 415700 Glenrothes KY6 2RB Wheelchair Rugby Dave Rhoney 01501 825890 Tel: 01592 415700 Fax: 01592 415710

Branches e-mail: [email protected] and printed by Multiprint 01592 204755 Designed

Sport Contact Telephone Chairperson: Richard Brickley, MBE Administrator: Norma Buchanan Aberdeen Andrinne Craig 01224 814788 Aberdeenshire Claire Bonnar 01467 628812 Website: www.scottishdisabilitysport.com John Wills 01467 628812 Patrons: Angus Laura Smith 01307 475367 Patron Craig Brown, CBE Borders Jed Renilson 01896 754751 Ext 2699 Honorary President Bob Mitchell, OBE ISO Dumfries & Galloway Andrew McLean 01387 260000 Honorary President Philip Harris, FRCS Hon. Vice President Ian Baillie, CMG OBE Dundee Gordon Quinton 01382 432346 Hon. Vice President Jean Stone, MBE Fife Norma Buchanan 01592 415700 Forth Valley Sport Development Team 01786 432323 Photographs taken by: Glasgow Gordon McCormack 0141 287 9872 Helen Bruce Highland Lesley Jones 01463 232262 Andrinne Craig Claire Mands Lothian Suzanne Laing 01875 619070 Hugh Stewart North Ayrshire Stephen Browning 01294 317457 Stevie Duff North Lanarkshire Elaine Grubb 01236 437756 Gavin Macleod Jacqui Lynn Perth & Kinross Caroline Ness 01738 637129 Mr and Mrs Anderson Renfrewshire Evelyn Stevenson 0141 840 3826 Jed Renilson South Ayrshire Colin Duthie 01292 294732 Gordon Quinton Paul McInney South Lanarkshire Millar Stoddart 01698 476131 Gordon McCormack