Sporting Opportunities Isle of Wight athletes are aiming for the 2026 Special Olympics National Summer Games – and are calling on Islanders to help fund their journey.
The organisation is setting its sights on the Special Olympics Great Britain National Summer Games 2026 following a hugely successful year of competition.
Among those leading the charge are Fleur Foster, Amelia Tolley and Summer Wyatt, pictured alongside head coach Deborah Percy at the Special Olympics GB athletics competition at Lee Valley Athletics Centre, proudly wearing gold, silver and bronze medals – part of an 11-medal haul on the day.
All 3 athletes have been involved with the charity for a number of years, taking part in football, athletics, multi-sports and indoor bowls. Between them, they have competed at numerous events and collected a host of trophies and medals.
For Amelia, being part of the charity has meant far more than sporting success. Her family say she feels very much part of a supportive community, has made many new friends and has significantly developed her social skills – something echoed by many families whose athletes are involved with SOIW.
Fleur, 30, is described as a fantastic ambassador for the charity. She now lives independently in her own flat and holds a permanent job at Asda. Her involvement in sport is said to have helped her overcome anxieties and build confidence both on and off the field.
Summer, 23, has also grown in confidence through her years with the organisation. She now sits on the charity’s committee representing fellow athletes and regularly assists with coaching when needed. She is widely respected within the SOIW community.
All three young women attended Island schools, including Medina House School and St George’s School, and both Summer and Amelia are now attending college while gaining valuable work experience.
Beyond athletics, the charity remains active across multiple disciplines. A recent friendly football tournament in Newport Pagnell brought together teams including players from St Catherine’s School, with whom SOIW works closely.
Indoor bowls competitions held at the Isle of Wight Community Club regularly attract teams from southern regions, with Island athletes also travelling to mainland fixtures.
Meanwhile, multi-sports sessions at Carisbrooke continue to see competitors proudly wearing medals earned at previous Lee Valley competitions.
With eyes now firmly fixed on Birmingham 2026, Sporting Opportunities Isle of Wight is seeking financial support to fund travel across the Solent, accommodation for the five-day event and new competition kit so Team IOW can represent the Island with pride.
Anyone wishing to support or discuss sponsorship opportunities is asked to contact [email protected].
