Robinson is going for boccia gold in Beijing (From Bury Times)

Robinson is going for boccia gold in Beijing

4:05pm Wednesday 3rd September 2008

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BURY’S teenage Paralympian Zoe Robinson begins her quest for a Beijing medal on Sunday at the start of boccia event.

The 18-year-old is part of the four-strong world ranked number one Great Britain team which has been strongly tipped for glory with gold medallist Nigel Murray also included.

Robinson only took up the bowls-type sport two years ago and made her international debut at the Boccia World Cup last year when she was member of the team that won gold.Robinson flew out to China earlier this week.

Before leaving, she said: “When I found out that I had been selected for the squad for Beijing, I was speechless but overjoyed. I cannot begin to say how much this means to me – it is my dream come true.

“I am very committed to my daily training and will continue to be.

“I am grateful for all the help and support I receive from both ParalympicsGB and the Great Britain Boccia Federation coaches and staff. I hope to do everyone proud in Beijing.”

Boccia team manager Jacqueline Lynn, said: “The team are currenlty ranked number one in the world, so we have the target of winning a team medal. As well as the team events, the athletes will compete in the individual competitions.” Former Radcliffe High School pupil Robinson has also received financial help from Whitefield Schools for her trip to Beijing.

Pupils from Heaton Park, Whitefield Primary, All Saints and Elms Bank High all made contributions towards the £4,000 needed to help with the costs.

The National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers also raised cash to help fund a trip to Beijing of Robinson’s family at their conference earlier this year.

The NASUWT’s negotiating secretary in Bury, Karen Hopwood, said: “Zoe is really an inspiration and all her teachers and friends in Bury schools are really proud of her.”

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