Manta Rays Swim Team member Adrienne D’monte shone at the WA Disabled Swimming Association (WADSA) state championships last month, taking out the Sue Knox Encouragement Award.
The award recognises the most courageous swimmer of the state-wide meet, and was presented to Adrienne after she conquered her fear of swimming in deeper waters.
Adrienne’s mother, Alice, said it was a great moment for the keen swimmer to overcome her fear.
“At first she got in the water and was holding on to the walls and you could see she was very nervous, but she was great once she got going,” Alice said.
“She’s a real fighter, and for her to do so well was just fantastic to watch.”
The award honours former Paralympic Australian swimmer Sue Knox, who set world records for freestyle and butterfly along with winning a silver medal.
Fellow Manta Ray Jedd Okely also competed at the championships, swimming in a number of events.
The pair swims with the Manta Rays every Wednesday, with the club currently on the hunt for new members.
A coordinator at the club, Alice said it was inclusive to all people living with disabilities aged seven to 18-years-old.
“The Manta Rays is a club about keeping fit and offering a social aspect to children living with disabilities,” she said.
“We don’t hold competitive meets, but it’s more about giving them an avenue to meet people in a more social situation.”
Anyone interested in finding out more about the club can call Alice on 0437 561 336.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
