Atheltics: West Lothian Olympians return with a medal haul

Aug 13 2009 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

ATHLETES from across West Lothian dominated the podium places at the recent Special Olympics in Leicester.

They flew the flag for the county with a series of sensational showings at the National Summer Games where they clinched a massive haul of medals.

In total our superstar Olympians returned to West Lothian with a phenomenal 40 medals – including 28 gold.

The Lothian Team consisted of 103 athletes, coaches and parents from across the Lothians while West Lothian had 29 members of the team represented – 21 athletes, and eight coaches and parents.

And in total West Lothian athletes secured their massive total of medals as they romped to gold 28 times, and picked up six silver medals, six bronze medals and 11 ribbons.

The successes were not restricted to one sport as the athletes excelled in everything they competed in.

The medal winners were as follows: Athletics – Jonathan Ah-Nien, one bronze and ribbon; Charlie Bryson, two ribbons; Michael Fraser, two ribbons; Alan Hendrie, two silver; Boccia – Kirsty McCallum, one gold and one bronze; Andrew Slack, one gold and one silver; Daniel Strang, one silver and ribbon; Bowls – Gary Whitfield, two ribbons; Amanda Craig, one gold and bronze; Gillian Donald, one gold and ribbon; Gordon Graham, two ribbons; Cycling – David Shaw, one gold and one silver and one bronze; Judo – Aaron James, one gold; Nicola Tuxworth, one gold; Powerlifting – Scott Bruce, four gold; Peter Cameron, three gold; Mark Lees, two gold and two silver; Danny Masterson, four gold; Francis Skiftesvick, four gold; Christina McSherry, four gold; Swimming – Lee Campbell, one silver and two ribbons.

The athletes were ably supported by the following coaches: Josie Whitfield (bowling); Alex James (judo); Joanne Imrie (judo); Robert McSherry (powerlifting); Andy Bruce (powerlifting); Andy Weir (swimming); Richard Hendry (football) and Elaine McKenna.

The West Lothian athletes and coaches were greatly supported by family members who travelled to Leicester.

And everyone involved with the squad would like to extend their thanks to all who have participated in making this event happen through fundraising and giving their time so generously which enabled the athletes to achieve their fabulous individual successes.

More info can be found on www.sol2009.com