By Isle of Wight Observer
Nine-year-old Sporting Opportunities Isle of Wight athlete, Jake Burton, has been given a boost in his bid to compete nationally.
Jake made a remarkable debut at the Activity Alliance National Championships at Warwick University, winning gold in the shot put before taking a second gold in his first-ever frame running race, using a frame borrowed for the event.
He first discovered the sport at a taster session organised by Sporting Opportunities on the Island.
Frame running uses a three-wheeled frame, with athletes supported by a saddle and body plate and using their feet to propel themselves forward.
After meeting Jake at a Wightlink in the Community event, and hearing about his success and enthusiasm for the sport, Wightlink stepped in with a £3,000 donation.
The specialist frame will be built on the Island by Ventnor-based engineer, Simon Wearing, and is expected to be ready later this year.
Jake said: “I’m excited to be able to use a frame runner again. I really like running as a sport and I love that Wightlink has bought one for me, so thank you to Wightlink.”
Deborah Percy, from Sporting Opportunities IW, said the donation would make a significant difference as Jake takes part in more competitions.
Sporting Opportunities is one of 45 Island organisations receiving cross-Solent travel support through Wightlink in the Community.