OVER 60 disabled athletes from clubs and schools across the area competed at the Typhoo South West Regional Athletics event at the Exeter Stadium last Thursday.

The event allowed young disabled athletes compete in a prestigious tournament, and accommodated competitors with a wide range of impairments.

Participants at the event were battling for a place in the national championships on the 2nd and 3rd July in Warwick.

Rob Belbin, a trustee at the English Federation of Disability Sport, and an organiser of the event, said: “This is a fantastic event for young athletes with special educational needs and disabilities, for many this will be their first ever athletic event. 

"Over the years, by creating a fun and safe sporting opportunity, we have nurtured talent while promoting healthy activity.

“Young people have gone as far as representing their country, but equally importantly many have continued enjoying the sport for many years after their first games. 

Many elite disabled athletes began their golden careers at these events, including successful Paralympians Hannah Cockroft, Shelly Woods, Aled Davies and Hollie Arnold.