Pupils inspired by visit of Paralympic athlete

Dave Henson at ARK William Parker SUS-170525-090940001

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Ark William Parker athletes were thrilled when Paralympic medal winner Dave Henson joined them for a run on their athletics track.

Dave had been visiting the area and needed a track to train on; the academy was more than happy to help and welcomed Dave to use the facilities.

Dave, who has also won a gold medal in the 200m Invictus Games, spoke to the students about his journey.

They listened intently as he described how he had both his legs blown off while on patrol for the Royal Engineers in Afghanistan; how during his rehabilitation he found a new passion for sport and how he went on to win a bronze medal in the Rio Paralympic Games.

Dave Henson at ARK William Parker SUS-170525-090752001

The boys were very curious about his running blades and inspected them with great interest before joining Dave for a run around the track.

Teacher Rob Martellini said: “What a great opportunity for the boys to have such an inspirational speaker visit them during their athletics lesson. The boys were in awe of Dave and his story.

“It was an eye-opening experience for the Year 8s and allowed them to realise the importance of hard work and determination, and how perseverance can help them achieve their goals.”