Young Island Athlete Given Boost Towards National Sporting Success

A nine-year-old Isle of Wight athlete is set to take his sporting ambitions to the next level, thanks to a £3,000 donation from Wightlink.

Jake Burton, who competes with Sporting Opportunities Isle of Wight, impressed at the Activity Alliance National Championships at Warwick University, winning gold in the shot put before claiming another gold in his first-ever Frame Running race.

Jake, who has cerebral palsy, discovered Frame Running through a Sporting Opportunities taster session on the Island.

The sport uses a three-wheeled frame, with athletes supported by a saddle and body plate as they propel themselves forward using their feet.

After meeting Jake at a recent Wightlink in the Community event and hearing about his success, Wightlink decided to fund a bespoke Frame Runner specifically for him.

The specialist equipment will be built on the Island by Ventnor engineer Simon Wearing and is expected to be ready for Jake later this year.

Wightlink Finance Director Steve Exley said Jake's determination and enjoyment of the sport had inspired the company to help him continue his progress.

Jake said he was excited to get back to Frame Running, adding that he "really likes running as a sport" and was grateful to Wightlink for buying the equipment.

Sporting Opportunities Isle of Wight says the donation will make a significant difference as Jake takes part in more competitions.

The charity is one of 45 Island organisations receiving cross-Solent travel support through Wightlink's Wightlink in the Community initiative.