Medal rush in France

Three NSWIS athletes have picked up medals on the opening weekend of the 2013 IPC Athletics World Championships in Lyon, France.

Rosemary Little kicked off proceedings with a fantastic display in the women’s wheelchair T34 200m to take silver, narrowly finishing behind reigning Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft.

Little, who is coached by NSWIS Wheelchair Track & Road Elite Development Coach Louise Sauvage, clocked a time of 33.73 to set a new personal best by more than a second, as well as a new Oceania and Australian record in the event.

Fellow NSWIS athlete and London Paralympic Angela Ballard was also in fine form, winning silver in the women’s wheelchair T53 200m. Ballard crossed the line in 30.15 to begin her five event campaign on a strong note.

Also competing over the weekend was NSWIS athlete Guy Henley, who picked up bronze in the men’s F37/38 discus throw. Henley’s first round throw of 51.13m was good enough for bronze, while also setting a new Oceania record in the event.