WheelPower comes to Stratford upon Avon BC
Stratford upon Avon BC and its adaptive section recently hosted the first ever WheelPower Learn to Row event to encourage wheelchair users and others into rowing
WheelPower have been providing opportunities for people with physical impairments to take part in sport for nearly 70 years. Based in Stoke Mandeville, the home of the Paralympic movement, WheelPower is at the heart of wheelchair sport. From first-timers to Paralympic medallists, WheelPower support and promote participation at all levels. They have seen how playing sport can enrich lives, offering tremendous physical and psychological benefits, whatever age or ability. Each year, WheelPower supports over 62,000 disabled people across the country to access and participate in sport and activity.
Commenting, Mark Dewdney, Stratford’s Head Adaptive Coach said, “The WheelPower event was a great success and we were so pleased that the club’s adaptive section was able to host this first every national event to encourage disabled people into the sport of rowing. A big thanks to WheelPower!”
Buddy rower Paola Arévalo (bow) with newbie WheelPower sculler. WheelPower participants getting to grips with rowing techniques with Stratford adaptive squad helper Dave Day.
Club President Paul Stanton commented further, “We were also honoured to have Stratford upon Avon Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jason Fojtik attend the event. The interest, support and encouragement that Jason and Stratford upon Avon Town Council give to sport in the Stratford and wider area is essential for community cohesion and wellbeing.”
Adaptive rowing is a sport open to all. Rowing can be indoors or on the water, just for fun or to compete in competitions. Rowing is a great way to meet new people, get fit and stay healthy, learn new skills and to have fun. Adaptive rowing is about removing barriers to participation for anyone who has a physical disability, sensory or learning impairment.
Find out more about adaptive rowing
The ‘A Team’! Mark Dewdney, Stratford Boat Club’s Head Adaptive Coach (centre back row) with WheelPower executives, fellow adaptive coaches, helpers, Stratford adaptive members and WheelPower participants
