Shiona makes waves for Team GB in the Deaflympics

Mon 20th March 2017

Shiona McClafferty from Lanark is set to make waves at this summer’s Deaflympics in Turkey as she swims for team GB. The Realising Dreams Foundation is helping to get her there with an award of £1,000.

16 year old Shiona applied to the foundation after her swimming talent secured her a prestigious spot in the GB swimming team for the Deaflympics being held this July in Samsum, Turkey. But the £2,500 cost of the trip was proving a difficult target to reach.

She has never competed in an international competition before.  This opportunity is a dream come true – one Shiona has worked very hard for. She has been swimming competitively for eight years. She trains six times a week and attends competitions up to four times a month . After leaving school Shiona has her sights set on becoming a PE teacher. The fact that she is deaf has never stood in the way of her achieving her dreams.

Shiona said: “This is an amazing offer of support. It means that I can focus all my energy on training, swimming and preparing for the Deaflympics.

“I want to thank everyone at the Realising Dreams Foundation for believing in me.  Turkey…. here I come!”

Shiona McClafferty from Lanark has earned a place swimming as part of Team GB in this summer’s Deaflympics

Shiona’s training will intensify now with a number of competitive events, including the Scottish National Age Group Championships in Abderdeen and the Deaf Nationals in Loughborough.

The Realising Dreams Foundation has been inspired by her story, talent, ambition and importantly her commitment to giving back.

Chairman, Ron Burges said, “Shiona is already proving how young people with talent can support and inspire others. She actively encourages up and coming swimmers and has recently taken a job as an assistant sports coach. Our foundation is delighted to offer support to extra-ordinary young people like Shiona with the talent, drive and ambition to make a difference to their lives as well as to the lives of others. We wish her the very best of luck over the coming months.”

Shiona’s has had the support of her swim club, Scottish Swimming and South Lanarkshire Disability Sport. The Realising Dreams Foundation is delighted to be part of her journey.