A cadet from 469 (Lowestoft) Squadron is looking forward to representing Great Britain in gymnastics at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin.
Cadet Jack will join 7,000 other athletes who are competing across 26 sports in the German capital this summer.
“I have trained nearly my entire life for this,” he said. “I am part of a very strong gymnastics team.”
He had some sage advice for anyone thinking of joining the Air Cadets.
“Never stop trying and don't give up, no matter what happens,” he said. “If you keep your friends and family close you'll always have people to support you.”
Jack has been training in gymnastics at Waveney Gymnastics Club for nearly a decade. Other events he has taken part in include the 2017 National Summer Games in Sheffield and the Summer Series of Sport in 2022.
At his Squadron, he has participated in the Poppy Appeal Remembrance parade and has completed his basic first aid. It has been noted that he has grown in confidence and has enjoyed learning new skills.
Jack's mother added: “Throughout his life he has had a give-it-a-try attitude, always willing to try something of interest and something new.
“It’s these positive characteristics that have helped him to succeed and achieve, along with some great support. We can’t wait to cheer him on in Berlin and in the meantime we are enjoying the planning, build up and all Jack’s current adventures including practicing his gymnastics and Air Cadets.”
Jack’s Commanding Officer said the Squadron was supporting his journey and wished him all the best.
“We are very proud of Jack and this amazing achievement,” the OC said. “He has competed at a top level in gymnastics at the same time as putting a lot of time and dedication at the squadron.”
The Special Olympics is the world's largest sports movement for people with intellectual disabilities, with more than 5 million athletes in 174 countries, and is officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The highlight is the Special Olympics World Games every two years.
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