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Sports fan on the route to victory

22 January 2008

Boccia champion in line to represent the country

New sports equipment has helped determined Jon Joe Clennel to the top of his game. Three years ago the 15-year-old from Northumberland, who suffers from cerebral palsy, took up a sport called boccia. Focusing on skill and accuracy rather than strength, the boules-like game has been designed specially for disabled people and can be played from a seating position.

Despite the limitations in Jon Joe ’s movements the teenager has shown a real talent for the sport. And now, with a little help from the Sunshine Fund, Joe has regained his mantle as regional boccia champion for a second successive year.

A £500 grant from the Chronicle charity provided the special balls and ramp needed to take part in the sport. Now he’s looking forward to representing the North East in Sheffield at the national championships. And with only two months to go until the March tournament, Jon Joe is stepping up his preparation.

Mum Amanda Sawyers, 48, who cares for Jon full time at their Coquet Terrace home, in Dudley, near Cramlington, is delighted with the new equipment. She said: “ Jon absolutely loves sport. From the moment he could sit up and watch it on television he’s been absolutely fascinated with it. “Now he can actually get involved and take part, which is wonderful. “For him to be regional champion two years running is fantastic, I’m so proud of him.”

Jon Joe ’s talent for the sport means he has already been touted as a potential candidate to represent the country.
Sunshine Fund manager Jo Harris said: “We always love hearing how much children get out of the donations we make and it’s great seeing Jon Joe enjoying himself so much. “That he’s developed such a special talent for the sport shows how important our donations can be. With out the balls and ramps Jon Joe ’s skill might have remained untapped.”

Anyone who would like more information or who would like to make a donation is asked to call Jo Harris on (0191) 201 6289 or log on to the fund’s website, www.eveningchroniclesunshinefund.org.uk


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