The recent training camp in Flagstaff and the opportunity to train with the outstanding Hawkins brothers has instilled a new confidence in Fife AC’s GB Paralympian Derek Rae.
All who know Derek recognise he is in better shape than ever and he confirmed this with an amazing 46 second PB at the Scottish Athletics 10K National Championships in Stirling last weekend.
Derek knew going into the race that he had enjoyed an excellent training block with coach Ron Morrison at Fife AC. Did he realise that he was going to run 31.13 just prior to his first visit to Japan and a race in Tokyo in preparation for the 2020 Paralympic Games? Derek ran hard from the gun and undoubtedly demonstrated his belief in his new found strength and fitness and he was spot on as always. Derek has never been short of determination and commitment.
Well done yet again Derek. This season has been your best to date and we wish you all the very best in Japan one year out from the Games. Derek has been preparing for this monumental challenge with sessions in the heat chamber. Conditions in Japan will be challenging and Derek’s back up team at the Scottish Institute of Sport will leave nothing to chance in their efforts to assist him with his preparations.
Richard Brickley OBE MBE Chairman DSF (SCIO) Board of Charity Trustees