On Sunday 7th July it was our Forth Valley Flyers Disability Athletics Championships, with athletes meeting from all across Scotland.
Starting off the event, we were privileged to participate in the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run. They were represented by officers from Ireland and Scotland, with Ross Christie as the lead officer in Scotland. This team will travel across Scotland promoting Special Olympics.  The torch crosses the globe in between the Special Olympics raising funds for charity and promoting inclusion and diversity within each nations’ police forces.
Following the championships, Flyers club member Caitlyn Ross presented to local trainee police officers to raise their awareness about the Special Olympics. By being involved in sport, this boosted her self-esteem and confidence, enabling Caitlyn to go on to volunteer and motivate others with any disabilities to take part.  The increased awareness helps improve engagement by police officers in our communities, enabling better support for those that have disabilities.
This was one of the best ever athletics events hosted by the Flyers, with 105 athletes, representing 12 clubs from Grampian to Gateshead and Ayr to Fife. There were 37 track and 18 field events. Our Flyers team did the Forth Valley region proud by winning 30 gold, 18 silver and 9 bronze medals.  The Special Olympics torch bearers took part in the long jump and 4 * 100m relay events, with Flyers athlete Steven Stone really impressing the police officers in the long jump. Steven is UK ranked 1st in his F20 category, with his personal best jump of 6.59m. Each team in the relay race was represented by one of the clubs and one team constituted the torch bearers. Their participation in the competition really demonstrated their inclusive ethos.
The Forth Valley Flyers welcomes children and adults from across our three counties of Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire. Our athletes have gone on to progress at the highest levels on the global stage, such as the Special Olympics and the Paralympics. We offer a full range of track and field specialities to train in. Additionally, for wheelchair users, we have a club racing wheelchair; and for those with some leg function, they can try one of our RaceRunning bikes. These opportunities present the first feeling of freedom that they may have experienced.
The Flyers is life changing for our club members, as not only are we providing sporting opportunities, our club sessions are key social opportunities for those that might otherwise feel isolated in society.
Would you know someone with a physical or learning impairment, who might like to try out one of our sports, in a very friendly and supportive environment? We meet at the Grangemouth athletics stadium each Tuesday at 5.30 and on Friday at 6pm.
Might you know someone interested in volunteering? We always need extra help to support our club.
Would you like to earn sport coaching qualifications and gain experience? We can help you develop your career.
Find out more about us www.forthvalleyflyers.org.uk and contact us for more details on forthvalleyflyers@btinternet.com.
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