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Meet Kare
Kare from Coventry, is a T34 Wheelchair athlete and 5x Paralympic medallist in the 100m and 800m events. Kare explains her journey with Caudwell Children and where her passion for sport came from.
When did your passion for wheelchair racing start?
I started my sport after watching the London 2012 Paralympic games on TV and I was inspired by the British athletes. Before watching the games, I didn’t realise that people with disabilities competed in elite sport. This really changed my perspective.
What challenges have you faced in sport?
I started sport at the age of 11, so I had to balance this with education throughout my school years and into university. This was very challenging but something I was able to overcome through discipline and the support of my family, coaches and teachers.
How has Caudwell Children supported your journey to becoming an athlete?
Caudwell Children provided financial support towards a day wheelchair early on in my sporting journey. This wheelchair increased my independence as I began to travel all over the country and internationally to compete.
Why do you think campaigns like Caudwell Children’s Summer of Sport are important?
I would say don’t hesitate to contact Caudwell Children, just give them a call because they are very supportive and will guide you. It’s a tough process but the staff at Caudwell Children will help you through it, they understand. They really are the experts when it comes to autism and know what to do when it comes to meltdowns and how you can help your child.
What role do you think para-sports play in changing perceptions about disability?
Para-sport has changed perceptions of disability in sport by providing sporting role models for disabled children and through making sport accessible to all. Some disabled children have had difficult experiences with sport, for example through exclusion from sport at school. Therefore, disability sport breaks such barriers and encourages children to give sport a go. Attitudes towards disability sport has changed. The Paralympic games is increasingly recognised and para-sports are respected as elite professions. There is still a long way to go but progress is evident.
What advice would you give to children with disabilities, or their parents, who dreams of becoming a professional athlete but feels daunted by the challenges?
I would encourage children to believe that nothing is impossible. I watched the Paralympic games and dreamed of becoming a Paralympian, and my dream came true. Likewise, for anyone who sees it they should believe that they can do it too. Sport comes with challenges however; sport also builds resilience therefore the journey with all its ups and downs should be embraced.
What has your experience been like competing in previous Paralympics?
My experience competing in the Paralympics has been positive. I’ve had the honour of representing my country which is always an amazing feeling. It’s also incredible to connect with athletes from all over the world and in multiple sports. The Paralympics has a special way of bringing the world together to celebrate sport and diversity.
How are you feeling about the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympics?
I am looking forward to competing in Paris this summer. It will be my third games and I can’t wait to race in front of the crowd, including my friends and family.
Since this interview took place, Kare has won a silver medal in the 100m event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
What changes would you like to see within the world of para-sports?
For para-sport to develop, we need more commercial support for athletes and our events. For example, we need more television coverage and sponsorship to promote para-sports and give disabled children the opportunity to see it and be inspired.
For more information about our Sports Equipment, please Click Here:
https://www.caudwellchildren.com/changing-lives/how-we-can-help/equipment/
* Photo Credit: Nike