A Tolworth-based 10-pin bowling team for adults with learning difficulties are off to Leicester for the Special Olympics National Championships on July 25 - and the trip will be a real family affair for one Worcester Park trio.
Head coach Lee Crosby will be joined by his wife Pat, who helps behind the scenes with the Special Olympics Surrey side, as they take the team bus north, with son and team member Elliot hoping to nail some strikes in the tournament.
Mr Crosby said: “I have been helping these fabulous individuals for a few months now. When they bowl the ball they believe in themselves and that is what it is all about.
“It has made them all self-confident and realise what they can achieve.”
The side will be facing 115 other bowlers as members take part in the singles, doubles and team competitions, which are all due to take place at the town’s olympic village, following an opening ceremony at Leicester City FC’s Walkers Stadium.
Sue Frett, county secretary for Special Olympics Surrey, said: “This lovely family just walked into our lives many months ago.
“Not only does Lee coach the ‘10-pinners’ but he has bought three other coaches on board to train our athletes.
“Last Tuesday we had 24 10-pin bowlers in training - it was great to see.
"We can never thank enough the volunteers that come on board. As far as I am concerned they are our real unsung heroes.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here