Rio2016: Paralympics: US Trip Shapes Hanna Babalola’s Preparation .

*Earns first track wheelchair as a result 

 Para athletics Sprinter, Hannah Babalola has revealed she is on the verge of realizing her dream of competing in the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. She spoke of gains made during her recent trip to Atlanta, United States for a training programme alongside athletes from other parts of the world. The programme was organized by Global Wheelchair Athletics, Canada at Brunwinks Athletic Club at Warm Springs Atlanta, Georgia for three weeks. “Because the vision of the club is to assist athletes become paralympians via guided training and preparation for the Paralympics games in2016. The idea, Vanguard was informed is to help athletes acquire skills, be in proper shape, compete favorably in pre Games competitions and qualify for the games proper. I had a good outing because the activities focused on my technique, speed, my endurance. Coach Ueli Albert in-charge at the host club guided me throughout the programme,” she stated. More than the training event, Hanna for the first time now owns a track wheelchair that donated to after the programme by host club Brunwinks Athletic intended not just for training but also meet her Rio2016 Games goals. “It was more like the wheelchair I took to the training was outdated, so, the club where the event held was aware of the problems African athletes have with respect to getting the real track cycling wheelchair to use. So they donated one to me. It’s personalized because experts in sports mobility aid took my measurement and size before arriving at the ideal track cycling for me.”

Besides, Hannah who specializes in the 100m and 200m revealed she is delving into the 400m event as a result. “It’s a matter of putting in more at training and in time I know I can do it.”

But how did she get the money that enabled the trip? “Individuals and organizations donated money following an appeal.”  According to her, the list includes Janet Dozie Foundation, Engineer Kola Balogun, VCN Sports, Abidape Nig. Ltd, St Ivo Kermdin and Education Foundation, Top Option Ltd, Diamond Fitness Club and Mrs. U Mfonbong. Hannah expressed gratitude to these public spirited Nigerians and organizations not named who raised a total N600, 000 that enabled her travel for the programme. Like the famed Oliver Twist, she is asking for more because she has a dream to go for a first Rio2016 championship qualifier, scheduled to take place in Dubai, February 19.