Ayr man chosen to promote paralympic spirit

Aug 29 2008

INSPIRATIONAL is an over-used word in today’s society.

But for one young Ayr man, it doesn’t begin to tell the story of his life so far. And when John Wardrope heads to Beijing next week, he’ll go as an ambassador not just for Britain – but for himself.

The sports-mad 21-year-old has never let cerebral palsy get in the way of his fit and active lifestyle.

And that’s why he was hand-picked by the British Council to promote the paralympic spirit in China. Now John is determined to use his experience for the benefit of others when returning to South Ayrshire.

“I’m not going to Beijing as the poor wee disabled boy – I want to show what these people can achieve,” he insisted.

“I’ll be learning lots of teaching, communication and leadership skills that I can use when I come home to help other kids.

“I’ve never sat back in my life and accepted that I couldn’t do things and that’s the message I want to get across to others.

“Going to China will give me the chance to come back home and pass on what I’ve learned.”

John is one of just four Scots making the trip to Beijing to take part in the youth forum.

He’ll help to raise cultural and disability awareness on the youth advocates programme before returning to pass on his message at home. His role in the community is being heralded as vital for the future of both disabled and able-bodied kids.

Colin Duthie, chairman of the South Ayrshire Access to Sports clubs, revealed: “John will return from China with so much to offer.

“He’ll be helping in the community, going into colleges and community centres and speaking to young people. He’s an inspiration for the way he lives his life and that’s why he’s been chosen for this project by the British Council.

“The trip isn’t a reward – it’s an opportunity for John and one he’ll make the most of.”

John will attend the paralympics during his visit to Beijing. He said: “I would have preferred to be taking part than watching – but I definitely want to be there in 2012.”