Athletes flock to Black Country for annual Dwarf Games
Athletes from around the globe will flock to West Midlands for the National Dwarf Games at the weekend.
Dozens of competitors from all over the UK and Europe are expected to take part in the annual event at Aldersley Leisure Village on Sunday and Monday.
They will compete in a range of sports, including table tennis, badminton, new age kurling, hockey, boccia, football, basketball and cycling.
Sanctioned by the Paralympic Games, the 21st National Dwarf Games has been organised by the Dwarf Sports Association UK, with track and field events taking place in Birmingham's Alexander Stadium on Friday and Saturday and swimming at Cheslyn Hay Pool on Sunday and Monday.
The National Dwarf Games have been held at Aldersley Leisure Village for the last six years, and spectators are welcome to offer their support between 11am and 5pm on Sunday and 9am-4pm on Monday. Entry is free.
The Dwarf Sports Association has helped many athletes on their way to national championship and Paralympic success, including 2012 Medallists Ellie Simmonds OBE, Matt Whorwood and Zoe Newson who all took part in the National Dwarf Games in their early sporting years. This year, 185 athletes are expected to take part.
President and founder of the Dwarf Sports Association UK Arthur Dean said he has witnessed many lives being fulfilled and turned around through sport.
"This organisation has played a major role in breaking down barriers of difference in society towards people with dwarfism," he said. "It all began with six members and now boasts over 500.
"Seeing these young people develop in their lives as well as in sport is so rewarding and well worth 21 years of team work."
For more information about the Games or the Dwarf Sports Association UK, please call 07889 922736 or 01246 296485, visit www.dsauk.org or check out the Dwarf Sports Association UK Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DSAUK.
Please note that while the National Dwarf Games is underway, activities in the main hall at Aldersley Leisure Village will be suspended, though the gym is open as normal. Please call the centre on 01902 556200 for more details.
