Wakefield Athletes Triumph Over Yorkshire Rivals In 2012 Paralympics Warm Up

Fourteen aspiring athletes from Wakefield triumphed over their Yorkshire rivals last Thursday (22nd July), winning an array of medals at the annual Craegmoor Olympics Day.

27 July 2010

Craegmoor is the leading independent provider of support for people with learning disabilities, mental health problems, autism and older people. The Olympics, which began 3 years ago in Kent have proven to be such a hit with competitors and spectators that regional heats have been rolled out across the country, which will culminate in a national final on September 8th near Sutton Coldfield.

Two people with their sights firmly set on a national - and potential 2012 Paralympics win are gold medal winners Lauren Dufton and Nigel Button, who are supported by Craegmoor's Mayfield House service in Wakefield. Lauren pulled through with a win in the freestyle swimming, whilst Nigel fought off stiff competition in the wheelchair race. Another notable winner was Brian Blakeley, who is supported by Ardsley House in Wakefield, who ran his way to a gold medal in the 500 metre run event.

The Northern Regional Final of the Olympics turned out to be the toughest yet, as athletes braved wind and rain to secure their places on the podium. As well the sporting events, athletes also enjoyed taking part in a cake decorating stall and cheering on the people that support them in the staff race.

Medallist Lauren Dufton, who also helped to organise the event, said:

"Everyone really enjoyed the event, and even when it rained people still had lots of fun. My favourite part was the swimming and I am very proud to have won a medal. I can't wait for the national finals in September."

Vicki Burley, Craegmoor's Quality Development Advisor - Engagement and Involvement, said:

"Craegmoor works to support people to do the things that they are passionate about, and this is really at the heart of the Craegmoor Olympics. I'm thrilled that everyone had so much fun and that there was such a sense of team spirit. There were some great sporting performances and who knows, maybe we'll see one or two of them in the 2012 Paralympics."

For more information please contact the Craegmoor Media Team on

07590 990 995.