Bailey Matthews is only eight years old and is afflicted with cerebral palsy, but he wowed the crowd watching a triathlon in North Yorkshire with his determination to finish the race like a true champion. While he used his walking aid for the race, he discarded it in the final 20 meters to cross the finish line by himself, as a group of enthusiastic and very supportive crowd cheered him on.
His mother, Julie Hardcastle later told reporters that it was Bailey’s way of finishing the race in style and to show everyone that he could do it despite his medical condition. She believes that the huge response from the spectators is what pushed him to finish the race like that.
Bailey, who is from Nottinghamshire, was only 18 months old when he doctors determined that he had cerebral palsy. The medical condition affects Bailey’s motor skills, making it difficult for him to move and do some tasks. Jonathan Matthews, his father, adapted a walking frame to enable Bailey to take part in some physical activities, including some sports. Bailey is like his father, who has an active interest in triathlons. His father used to push him in his wheelchair during a triathlon’s running event. The elder Matthews said that his son is always eager to do something and he tries his best to make it easier for his son to enjoy every bit of freedom and physical activity is he able to do.
Determination
Bailey is a determined young athlete, and was able to complete last Saturday’s Castle Howard Triathlon, which was held on the castle grounds. The children’s race comprised swimming (100 meters), bike ride (4,000 meters) and running (1,300) meters. One parent is allowed to assist the young participants. In Bailey’s case, it was his dad you provided assistance to him for most parts of the events.
His mother reiterated that the word “cannot” is not used in their family, and that they will always try to find a way to make sure that their son can do what he wants to do.
Image Copyright: jarenwicklund / 123RF Stock Photo
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