A TEAM of rowers from Wokingham celebrated an impressive win at the weekend.
The bell boat crew, all members of CLASP, a self-advocacy group run by and for people with learning disabilities, entered this year’s Regatta for the Disabled, in Henley hoping for success.
“Last year the team came second, but this year they really dug deep,” said Michele Munroe from CLASP.
“We’re delighted that our rowers were overall winners in the bell boat racing.
“They even achieved the fastest time for the course too.”
She says that it was a mix of resilience, determination, courage, focus, and team work that led to the team’s success.
Bell boats are made from two long, narrow, canoe-like boats connected by a central platform.
They can be paddled by up to 12 people using single-bladed paddles to propel the craft through the water.
“We couldn’t be prouder of the team,” said Michele.
Debbie Morrison, CEO of CLASP agreed: “It was an amazing day, and full of fun,” she said.
“We got a bit wet, but not from the rain, which was kind and stayed away.”
Congratulations have been sent to the group by Wokingham Town Council Mayor Cllr Louise Timlin, who’s chosen CLASP to be her nominated charity for the year.
CLASP thanks team sponsors, the Morgan family, supporters, and organisers of the Regatta for the Disabled.
The event is a fun-filled day on and by the River Thames for people with disabilities and their families and carers, offering accessible activities for ages and abilities.
“It’s a fantastic, inclusive, and empowering event – and we will be back,” said Michele.
For information, visit: claspwokingham.organd regattaforthedisabled.org
