Paralympic cycle dream a step closer for Ross teen
THE gutsy desire of a disabled Ross-shire teenager determined to represent his country at the 2020 Paralympics has inspired a massive groundswell of support that has brought his dream a step closer.
Fin Graham (18) last month launched a last-gasp £6500 crowdfunding bid to meet mounting equipment, travel and accommodation costs in a push to win a place on a GB Cycling full-time funded programme in Manchester.
That could be the key to him representing his country at the Tokyo showcase event in two years.
In a remarkable turn of events, the target was smashed within days thanks in large part to the kindness of complete strangers inspired by Strathpeffer-based Fin’s story. A total of £7500 has been pledged — more than £1000 over his original target.
Born with two club feet and no calf muscle in his right leg, the teenager has also battled lupus and is currently also struggling with a vital leg splint which he has described as "an extension of myself".
He has also helped inspire others to overcome handicaps by talking sharing his own experiences — including a trip to Chelsea FC to show other young people with club feet not to give up on their dreams.
Speaking to the North Star, he said: "The response has been crazy. I’m really touched by the level of support. There are many people who donated who I don’t know and that support from strangers is very humbling.
"This makes me more determined than ever. It proves that people support me and I feel like I want to repay that faith they have had in me with good results. I’ve been having some problems with my splint recently and it may be that I have to go private and look to get one that is specially made. The surplus raised would be a massive help towards that. It’s basically a part of me and something that I need."
In addition to chasing the crucial funded place on the Manchester programme, Fin will also now look into the possibility of sourcing a carbon fibre leg splint. The determined youngster, who has already represented Great Britain and won British national paracycling road racing championships two years running, added: "This year I’ve done everything I can in terms of results. It’s all down to the coaches now. I’ll understand if it doesn’t happen but I just want to see how far I can go."
A job offer from a bike store in Glasgow will bring him closer to the velodrome that his vital to his training regime. Currently he makes a weekly 400-mile round trip to train there.
He paid tribute to the support of his parents for encouraging him and taking him to events all over the country.
Mum Dee said: "We’re dead chuffed. I’m almost slightly embarrassed because I know there are so many worthy causes and needy stories out there and this response is very touching. I think Fin’s story has inspired people. He is just so incredibly determined and ready for the next step. With the extra money we may need to look at finding a carbon-based splint which could cost £1000. It is, as he says, an extension of himself. We’re very proud of him."
His fundraising page remains open and can be found at https://uk.gofundme.com/support-fin039s-paralympic-dream