Jonny Brown from Coaltown of Wemyss has cerebral palsy and is a recent convert to wheelchair racing. Jonny competes in the T33 class. Support from Scottish Disability Sport enabled Disability Sport Fife (DSF) to access a racing chair for Jonny and Scottish Athletics and British Athletics provided essential expertise and advice on posture, positioning and technique.
Jonny has always been a keen thrower (discus and shot) and with support from his coach and father David, he has made steady progress. Some years ago REMAP built throwing frames for DSF which Jonny has taken full advantage of, with support from the Fife Sports and Leisure Trust. Inspired by Paralympian Sammi Kinghorn and others, Jonny is thriving on being part of the ever growing DSF wheelchair racing squad led by DSF coach Pamela Robson. Jonny is also a frequent visitor to the gym at the Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre.
Jonny has recently had difficulty with the positioning of his feet which has had an impact on the power he can generate though his arms. Balance and stability are critical in wheelchair racing and a local Fife company has come to the rescue. Following a meeting with engineers, John Penman and Keith Page of local steel fabricators, Fife Fabrication Ltd. (Fifab), an offer of assistance was immediately forthcoming. John and Keith have now designed and manufactured bespoke footplates which not only offer increased stability but confidence and comfort.
DSF is proud of the range of partners it can call upon in times of challenge and in this instance it is Fifab that has come to the rescue. Jonny is in a much better position now to meet his training commitments and challenge for PBs in the season ahead. Many thanks John and Keith for your time and expertise. A proud coach and athlete are looking forward to forthcoming competitions with renewed confidence and focus.
Richard Brickley MBE
President, Disability Sport Fife