Inspired to achieve

Year 7 girls were delighted to welcome Chris Rattenbury, Ambassador for WheelPower, to their assembly on Thursday. WheelPower is a national charity for wheelchair sport which provides opportunities for disabled people to play sport and lead healthy, active lives.

One of our Year 7 girls, Hannah W, has raised money for the charity by taking part in a 25km cycle ride near Stoke Mandeville. On her suggestion Chris was invited in to school to provide further insight into the work of WheelPower and raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities who wish to participate in sport.

Chris spoke to the group about his connection with the charity, and the story of his own personal challenges, outlining how sport had changed his life. Born with Spina bifida, doctors told him that he would not survive beyond the age of five; however, when he turned six his father encouraged him to get involved in sport. He tried out several different disciplines before discovering that his real strength lay in powerlifting.

Since then Chris has taken part in powerlifting competitions all over the world. In 2010 he competed in the Commonwealth Games in India and in 2013 he was the World Champion, for 34 minutes, after lifting a staggering 179kg, beaten shortly afterwards by another competitor, yet ranked 3rd in the world at the time.

Chris volunteered at the Paralympic Games in 2012 and brought his Paralympic torch with him to show the girls as he talked to them about his role as a volunteer ambassador for WheelPower.

Head of Year 7, Mrs Collins, said “We were thrilled that Chris was able to come and speak to us. His overriding message was that we should all aim high and never believe that we can’t do something. His talk was truly inspirational for all the girls and staff who attended.”