| |
Scarlett Merrell, aged 12 from Halstead, recently took part in national disabled swimming event held in Sheffield. Over 200 swimmers from all over the country took part including successful Para- Olympian swimmer Ellie Simmonds. Scarlett was delighted to come 4 th overall in her category for backstroke and 7 th overall in the freestyle event. Her goal now is to knock 4 seconds off her back stroke time to allow her to qualify for the National Talent Squad Programme which aims to train and coach promising young swimmers for the Para Olympics.
Scarlett has suffered from Erb’s Palsy since birth. This condition affects the nerves and muscles in the arm and she has had to undergo several operations, including muscle transplants, to try to improve her condition. Despite her disability, Scarlett has been a keen swimmer for many years and she now trains with Halstead Swimming Club several times a week, including 6am sessions before school! Swimming is really good physiotherapy for Scarlett and it helps to strengthen her very weak left arm.
It was Scarlett’s PE teacher at Hedingham School, Mrs Stephens, who recommended that Scarlett attend an assessment day where she was talent spotted by a swimming coach. The school is obviously very proud of her success so far and wishes her all the best for her swimming future. Scarlett commented on her weekend at Sheffield, ‘It was a fantastic experience and I met some great people. I realised that whatever your disability, if you work hard enough you can achieve anything!’
|
|
Scarlett with Dervis Konuralp, who is blind and an Ambassador for Disabled Swimming |
Scarlett is pictured with Sascha Kindred who broke 3 world records at the event and who also suffers from Erbs Palsy |
|
