Paralympian shares ‘inspirational’ story

The athlete, who is Sky Sports’ Living for Sport Ambassador, spent time with the Year 12 Sports Studies students assisting them in planning their sports event as part of their BTEC course.

He went on to deliver an inspirational talk to the Year 13 and 14 Sports Studies students, explaining the challenges he has had to overcome in order to achieve success.

Michael, who has a mild form of cerebral palsy, is an Irish middle distance runner and Paralympic athlete who achieved two gold medals in the 1500m and 800m at the Paralympic Games in London.

He is also the current world record holder for each of the respective distances and the first ever male to set a world record in the Olympic stadium in London.

The Newtownabbey athlete was also awarded an honorary degree from Queen’s University earlier this year.

Ulidia teacher Gary Spratt said: “On behalf of the school and the pupils I would like to thank Michael for sharing his inspirational story with us.

“The college looks forward to continuing their work with Michael in the future and has already invited him back to work with the Year 12 project group in planning their sports event this year.”