Richie realises Olympic dream (From Barry And District News)

Richie realises Olympic dream

A YOUNG Rhoose man who has learning difficulties has been picked to represent his country in the Special Olympics.

Richie Field of Aidenfield Way has been playing bowls-based boccia for less than a year, and the 23-year-old was over the moon when he was picked for the team to play in Glasgow in July 2005.

Richie will join a 300-strong team to go to the Special Olympics.

He said: "Last September I joined a course at Barry Leisure Centre about playing bowls. I often go with my dad to the bowls club to play there.

"I am usually the best player there at boccia practice at the leisure centre because I get the bowls near to the jack.

"I am very happy. When I was at church I was walking down the aisle and a person said something nice to me. They mentioned that they had never walked by an Olympic athlete. I felt ten feet tall."

His dad, Clive Field, of Richie Stores, said: "We are over the moon that he has been given this opportunity to play for Wales. He seems to have the knack of playing this game. We are proud of him.

"The community here have been great in helping to raise the £450 which is needed to go to Glasgow in 2005. Our local pub, the Mayflower, has been very supportive.

"This opportunity could lead to other trips with the team. The trip to Glasgow will be the first time he has gone away without us."

Each Olympic member has been measured up for a special team strip. And Richie along with other members of the Boccia team have to practice once a week without fail at Barry Leisure Centre.

The amount of money may be reduced depending on sponsorship which is being sort over the next 15 months.