Wheelchair athlete's Paralympic dream speeds up thanks to donation from trust

Ollie Porter, 14, is training with a new racing wheelchair that cost more than £5,000 and was bought by the Hurworth Rogers Charitable Trust.

Ollie, who lives in Hurworth-on-Tees, near Darlington, had grown out of his previous wheelchair, which was also funded by the trust.

His mum Rebecca said: “As a family, we are so grateful for the support Ollie has received from the Hurworth Rogers Trust over recent years. It’s made a massive difference.”

And Ollie, a pupil at Hurworth School, added: “My new racing chair feels great. I like the new seating position and hope I will be able to set some new personal best times once the season starts.”

The trust was established after Hurworth villager, Brian Rogers, left a large sum in his will to be used to support local good causes.

Chairman of the trust, Dr Ian Bagshaw, said: “We are absolutely delighted to support this young man who is really excelling beyond our wildest expectations.”

Ollie, who has spina bifida, has been in training for several year and racing all over the country. He has consistently set personal best times and, most recently, won his age group in the London Mini Marathon at the end of the 2021 season.

Other highlights have included competing in the National Junior Disability Championships, winning gold medals in the 100 and 200 metres.

His new Bromakin racing wheelchair has been hand-built to Ollie’s measurements and has some growing room. He is now training with the new chair ahead of the start of the 2022 season in early May.

Paul Moseley, Ollie’s coach at Leeds City Wheelchair Racing Club, said: “Being re-measured for a new chair has provided us with the opportunity to change Ollie’s sitting position to a more efficient kneeling position.

“His progression has already seen some amazing performances and, with his determination, work ethic and competitive nature, we’re excited to see what the future brings for this awesomely talented young athlete.”