RNIB - See Sport Differently: Recent Episodes
RNIB Connect Radio
If you are blind or partially sighted and have an interest in sport, whether it be as a participant or as an observer, this podcast is for you! Get involved and join the conversation by emailing radio@rnib.org.uk
(mailto:radio@rnib.org.uk) Other great podcast channels from RNIB Connect Radio
Connect (https://audioboom.com/channel/weeklyconnect) - Our main channel with news, features and articles on sight loss.
Conversations (https://audioboom.com/channel/conversations) - Blind and partially sighted people speaking about a wide range of topics.
Read On (https://audioboom.com/channel/readonair) - The Audiobook show all about accessible reading.
Tech Talk (https://audioboom.com/channel/techtalkpodcast) - Technology for blind and partially sighted people.
The Happy Hour (https://audioboom.com/channels/5022411) - Mental health, mindfulness, and overall wellbeing.
Tracks of My Life (https://audioboom.com/channel/the-welsh-connection) - Take a journey through our guest's life.
Support (https://audioboom.com/channel/rnib-support) - Other podcasts from RNIB.
TV Guide (https://audioboom.com/channel/tv-guide) - Daily audio TV listings
The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, saw Para Athletes from around the globe aim for gold and personal bests.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke with David Clarke, Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association, to get his reflections on the games.
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After a 4th place in the Women’s Tandem Pursuit, at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games
England’s Sophie Unwin and her pilot Anna, scooped Bronze in the Kilo.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke with them as the games drew to a close.
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Image shows Allan interviewing Sophie with her pilot Anna Whitworth-Hay sitting next to her.
After a dramatic finish in his last race on the tandem, Scotland’s Neil Fachie finished the 2026 Commonwealth Games with a golden double.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke with Neil after the medal ceremony.
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Image shows: Team Scotland’s Neil Fachie and our reporter Allan crouch on the floor and show off Neil's gold medal. They're both grinning.
After a dramatic crash at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow
Welsh tandem cyclists, James and Matt added another Silver to their medals.
Here’s RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell talking with the pair after the medal ceremony.
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It was a very successful 2026 Commonwealth Games for New Zealand’s tandem cyclists at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Emma and Jess, as they celebrated a Gold double.
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Image Shows Allan interviewing Para cyclist Emma Foy. They're sitting side by side, Allan is holding a microphone up and Emma is holding a water bottle, still in her racing clothes.
England VI sprinter Zac Shaw won gold in the men's T12 100 m at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026.
Amelia spoke to him just after the race.
Zac has his arm around our reporter Amelia as they both smile for the camera. He’s in his red track running gear and is holding a bottle of water. Amelia has long brown hair and is wearing a bright pink vest and holding up a microphone.
After taking time out from competitive racing, Scotland’s Neil Fachie and his tandem cycling Pilot, stormed home to pick up their first Gold of the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Neil after the medals ceremony…
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Image shows Allan interviewing Neil. They're sitting across from each other, Allan extending a microphone to Neil, who looks serious as he listens to his question.
James Ball and his Pilot Matt, were pipped into the Silver medal position by half a second at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to them after the medals ceremony…
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Team Wales’ Silver medallists’ James Ball and his Pilot Matt Rotherham sit down as they're interviewed by Allan. The photo is taken from behind Allan, James is focused on answering a question, whilst Matt looks lost in his thoughts, head tilted up and smiling to himself.
It was a well deserved Bronze for para cyclists Lizzi Jordon and her Pilot Sylvia at their first event of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to them after the medals ceremony…
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Image shows Team England’s Bronze medallists’ Lizzi Jordan and her pilot Sylvia are sitting down and laughing as they hold up their medals. Sylvia is on the left and Lizzi is on the right.
Para Cyclist Sophie Unwin was pleased with her placing at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke with Sophie after her 1,000 meters race…
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Team England’s Sophie Unwin sits down for an interview for Allan. Another nice photo taken from behind Allan, extending his microphone to Sophie as she laughs and answers.
In the first episode of the new season, Hubert and the Down The Line gang take a look at the upcoming season in the Scottish premier league and what their thoughts are.
Visually impaired sprinter took 1st place in the 100m heats at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 – Amelia spoke to him right after the race.
Amelia interviews Zac. The picture is taken from behind her and shows Zac standing in his running gear, fresh of his Heats race the morning before. He smiles, head tilted as he listens to Amelia's question.
Barry Snell catches up with Team England para-swimmer Matthew Redfern, moments after Matthew finished 4th in the men's 50m Freestyle (S-13 category) at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026
Barry interviews Matthew Redfern after his bronze-winning swim. Matthew looks serious as he considers his answers. He's still in his swim gear.
Barry Snell catches up with Team Scotland para-swimmer Astrid Carroll, moments after she finished 7th in the women's 50m Freestyle (S-13 category) at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026
Image shows Barry interviewing Astrid. She's smiling, hands on hips as she speaks with Barry.
Barry Snell catches up with Team England para-swimmer Rebecca Redfern, moments after she finished 8th in the women's 50m Freestyle (S-13 category) at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026.
Image shows Barry interviewing para swimmer Becky. He's holding up the microphone as he asks his question making Becky laugh.
Barry Snell catches up with Team Wales para-swimmer Ela Letton-Jones, moments after Ela finished 6th in the women's 50m freestyle event (S-13) at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Image shows Barry interviewing para swimmer Ela.
Barry Snell catches up with Team England para-swimmer Ursula Carroll, moments after Ursula finished 5th in the women's 50m Freestyle (S-13 category) at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026
Image shows Barry interviewing para swimmer Ursula. She's mid-answering a question, hand gesturing.
Barry Snell catches up with Team Scotland para-swimmer Stephen Clegg MBE, moments after Stephen won a gold medal in the men's 50m freestyle event (S-13) at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Barry and Stephen pose together for a photo. Stephen holds up his medal and smiles as he has his arm around Barry.
David Hogg caught up with Team Scotland after their tie-break win in the gold medal match at Glasgow 2026.
Image shows Team Scotland posing together and holding Scottish flags after their win.
England won a silver medal in the B2 – B3 para bowls. Our David Hogg, caught up with them after the tense final with Scotland
After a nail-biting tie break win against New Zealand, Wales won bronze in the B2 B3 Mixed pairs para bowls at the Commonwealth Games. David Hogg caught up with them afterwards.
Following a straight sets victory over Wales in the B2 – B3 Mixed Pairs semi finals, David Hogg caught up with team England VI bowlers Ron Homer and Sally-Ann Lewis-Wall.
After a close fought victory against New Zealand, David Hogg caught up with Team Scotland as they prepare for a final with England at the B2 – B3 Mixed Pairs.
Image shows Sarah, Robert, Jim, and Mary posing together for a photo laughing.
Barry Snell catches up with Team Scotland para-swimmer Astrid Carroll & her sister Team England’s Ursula Carroll moments after competing in the women's 100m Freestyle at their first Commonwealth games.
Image shows of Barry interviewing the sisters. They both smile as they chat with him. Astrid is taller and wearing a cosy navy jacket over her swimsuit, whilst Ursula is still in England’s signature red swimsuit, a towel in her hand.
Barry Snell catches up with Team England para-swimmer Matthew Redfern, moments after Matthew won a bronze medal in the men's 100m freestyle event (S-13) at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
Image shows Barry interviewing Matthew Redfern after his bronze-winning swim. Matthew looks serious as he considers his answers. He's still in his swim gear.
Barry Snell catches up with Team Scotland para-swimmer Stephen Clegg MBE, moments after Stephen won a silver medal in the men's 100m freestyle event (S-13) at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Image shows Barry interviewing Stephen Clegg. He smiles as he stands there, fresh out of the pool, still in his swim trunks.
David Hogg sat down with Team Wales B2-B3 para bowls players following a very successful opening Day at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
On Friday night, there was a bit of an upset at the Commonwealth Games as Wales beat England 2-0 in the Para Bowls B2-B3 sectional play. David Hogg caught up with Team England after the match.
At the 2026 Commonwealth Games, David Hogg caught up with Steffan James and Julie Thomas following their opening game, tie-break win over Australia.
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At the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following their opening day win against New Zealand in the Mixed Pairs Para Bowls, David Hogg caught up with Ron Homer and Sally-Ann Lewis-Wall.
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We're at the 2026 Commonwealth Games and as we kick off with Para Bowls, our David Hogg caught up with Robert Barr and Mary Stevenson after their opening day win against South Africa.
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With the Glasgow Commonwealth Games underway, we’re looking forward to a tournament which will have the most ever medals up for grabs, for Para Athletes.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Para Cyclist Lizzi Jordan about her prep for the games and why she recommends cycling to anyone who is blind or partially sighted.
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In the final episode of ‘Down The Line’ World Cup Specials, RNIB’s Telephone ‘Football Focus’ group give their take on all of the action from this year’s tournament. Hosted by RNIB Community Connections Coordinator Neil Atkinson.
Let’s talk to another athlete with sight loss taking part in this summer’s Commonwealth games. David spoke to Team Scotland para bowler Robert Barr.
Let’s talk to another athlete with sight loss taking part in this summer’s Commonwealth games. David spoke to Team Scotland para swimmer Astrid Carroll about her preparations for her first Commonwealth Games…
Let’s talk to another athlete with sight loss taking part in this summer’s Commonwealth games. David spoke to Team Scotland para swimmer James Clegg about his Games preparation, his return to the pool and competing alongside his brother…
Let’s talk to another athlete with sight loss taking part in this summer’s Commonwealth games. David spoke to Team Scotland para swimmer Stephen Clegg about his Games preparation and returning from shoulder surgery
What's it like being a blind or partially sighted football fan during the sport's biggest event? Throughout this year’s World Cup tournament, RNIB’s Telephone ‘Football Focus’ group are giving their take on all of the action from the tournament. Keeping the participants in line is RNIB Community Connections Coordinator Neil Atkinson.
As we approach the start of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
We’re talking to some of the blind and partially sighted athletes, going for gold.
Here’s RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell with Team England Para Swimmer, Ursula Carroll.
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A charity’s board plays a huge part in the organisations governance, strategy and compliance but how do they do this?
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to RNIB Chair Anna Tylor to learn more about their work and hear about the board’s 5 new members.
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The ability to enjoy books in an accessible way is a vital building block for education and career success but reading can also take you on adventures, become a discussion point or give you a breather from everyday life.
RNIB is involved in the Year Of Reading and part of this is the Summer Reading Challenge.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to RNIB’s Tom Norton, to learn more about the challenge and why it’s so accessible.
If you’d like more info, go to rnib.org.uk/education and go to the children’s reading section.
You can also go to rnib.org.uk/music or summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
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Ahead of the Commonwealth Games, we’re catching up with the VI athletes taking part. Today, David Hogg speaks to VI para bowler Ron Homer and Director Sue Davies…
The Commonwealth Games are coming to Glasgow. Daivd Hogg spoke to the Lord Provost of Glasgow to find out what it means for the city….
As we approach the start of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
We’re talking to some of the blind and partially sighted athletes, going for gold.
Here’s RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell with Team England Para Swimmer, Rebecca Redfern MBE.
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As we approach the start of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
We’re talking to some of the blind and partially sighted athletes, going for gold.
Here’s RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell with Team England Para Swimmer, Matthew Redfern.
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As we approach the start of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
We’re talking to some of the blind and partially sighted athletes, going for gold.
Here’s RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell with Welsh Para Cyclist, James Ball.
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Phill Batty is the CEO of Glasgow 2026, David Hogg spoke to him about the planning that’s gone in to hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games
Ahead of the Commonwealth Games, we’re catching up with the VI athletes taking part.
Amelia speaks to Paralympic Medalist Sprinter Zac Shaw about his preparation...
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What's it like being a blind or partially sighted football fan during the sport's biggest event? Throughout this year’s World Cup tournament, RNIB’s Telephone ‘Football Focus’ group are giving their take on all of the action from the tournament. Keeping the participants in line is RNIB Community Connections Coordinator Neil Atkinson.
What's it like being a blind or partially sighted football fan during the sport's biggest event? Throughout this year’s World Cup tournament, RNIB’s Telephone ‘Football Focus’ group are giving their take on all of the action from the tournament. Keeping the participants in line is RNIB Community Connections Coordinator Neil Atkinson.
What's it like being a blind or partially sighted football fan during the sport's biggest event? Throughout this year’s World Cup tournament, RNIB’s Telephone ‘Football Focus’ group are giving their take on all of the action from the tournament. Keeping the participants in line is RNIB Community Connections Coordinator Neil Atkinson.
A weekend of disability football is on the horizon as the finals of the ‘EE FA Disability Cup’ are coming to St George’s Park. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the upcoming Blind final on Saturday June 27th.
You can find more information on the EE Disability FA Cup Finals on the FA website - EE Disability FA Cup returns for 2026
What's it like being a blind or partially sighted football fan during the sport's biggest event? Throughout this year’s World Cup tournament, RNIB’s Telephone ‘Football Focus’ group are giving their take on all of the action from the tournament. Keeping the participants in line is RNIB Community Connections Coordinator Neil Atkinson.
If you are blind or partially sighted, live in, or can get to, Brighton RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell has news on a fantastic free event to introduce you to open water swimming.
For anyone interested in joining the Gateway to the Sea event, bookings can be made here: https://britishblindsport.org.uk/events/2026/06/gatewaytothesea
If you’d like to book onto the visually impaired swim sessions at Sea Lanes, which run every Saturday from 3–4pm, call 01273 044163 or emailing sealanes@southdownsleisure.co.uk
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What's it like being a blind or partially sighted football fan during the sport's biggest event? Throughout this year’s World Cup tournament, RNIB’s Telephone ‘Football Focus’ group are giving their take on all of the action from the tournament. Keeping the participants in line is RNIB Community Connections Coordinator Neil Atkinson.
A weekend of disability football is on the horizon as the finals of the ‘EE FA Disability Cup’ are coming to St George’s Park. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the upcoming Visually Impaired final on June 27th.
You can find more information on the EE Disability FA Cup Finals on the FA website - EE Disability FA Cup returns for 2026
One of the biggest events in disability football takes place this month. Hywel Davies has been finding out how you can enjoy the EE Disability FA Cup in person and live on TV.
You can find more information on the EE Disability FA Cup Finals on the FA website - EE Disability FA Cup returns for 2026
What is it like to go rock climbing as a VI person? Amelia speaks to Lacey about her love of the sport and tips for people who want to try it.
Find Lacey on tiktok @laceyroo.h
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A new partnership between England & Wales Blind Golf (EWBG), Southend In Sight, and The Norman Garon Trust is opening up golf and community for people living with sight loss and visual impairment across Essex.
Amelia spoke to Andy Gilford from EWBG and Karl Hepple from Norman Garon Trust to learn more...
Contact matt@garonparkgolf.co.uk for more information about upcoming sessions.
Learn more about EWBG on their website - Home - England & Wales Blind Golf
Learn more about Garon Park on their website - HOME - Garon Park
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Barry Snell talks to England’s VI Rugby head coach Jake Walker about the team’s historic upcoming Four Nations tournament in Japan and about how this tour is set to transform the global future of visually impaired rugby.
Image: Picture of the squad posing for their picture. They are huddled around a poster for the upcoming tournament. The front row are kneeling and behind them the ere is a row of people standing. They are all wearing Rugby gear and are smiling for the camera.
How can you make teaching more acccessible if you have sight loss?
Kay Bennett is a dance and fitness instructor with Retinitis Pigmentosa who's here to tell Amelia about adjusting her teaching style.
Find Kay On Youtube, Facebook, Tiktok And Instagram under kaybmusicfitnessdance.
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More from the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games as RNIB Connect Radio’ Toby Davey chats with Paralympics GB visually impaired skier Neil Simpson and his guide Rob Poth on winning the first medal of the games for Paralympics GB with their silver in the Alpine Combined on Tuesday 10 March 2026.
To find out more about Paralympics GB and opportunities to get involved in some of the Paralympic sports do visit - https://paralympics.org.uk
Image shows Neil and Rob showing off their silver medals whilst waving Games' mascot plushies. They're wearing blue winter jackets with matching trousers and red bennies. Their medals hang on a red ribbon around their necks.
Off to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games to hear how the Paralympics GB visually impaired skiers have been getting on in the games.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with first time Paralympian Fred Warburton and his guide James Hannan as they reflect on coming 7th in the men’s downhill skiing on Saturday morning at their first Winter Paralympic Games and their first go at the downhill event too.
To find out more about Paralympics GB and opportunities to get involved in some of the Paralympic sports do visit -
https://paralympics.org.uk
Image shows Fred first bumping James. They're on the snow kitted out in full gear with their helmets, skis and ski poles. Fred has a navy sports outfit whilst James wears a bright orange top with a pink vest over it.
With 2026 marking the 50th anniversary of the first ever Winter Paralympic Games held in Sweden in February 1976 with teams of blind and partially sighted athletes competing in both alpine and nordic skiing for the first time too here on RNIB Connect Radio’s we thought it would be a good time to look back on that very first Winter Paralympic Games and find out what it was like taking part in the games for the first time as a visually impaired Paralympian.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Mike Brace CBE DL who was there along with five other young visually impaired athletes competing for Great Britain at that very first Winter Paralympic Games.
Mike began by telling Toby about how the opportunity came about for him to compete as a blind person in that very first Winter Paralympic Games plus what the training was like to get him and the other visually impaired skiers ready for the games.
Mike then talked about how the games have evolved over the last 50 years from his view point competing as a blind skier in that first ever Winter Paralympic Games, managing the great British Paralympic Cross-Country Ski Team from 1988 to 1994, Chef de Mission for the Great British Team at the Winter Paralympic Games, Director of ParalympicsGB and being involved in bringing the summer Olympics and Paralympic Games to London in 2012.
Mike ended by reflecting on the great success of the Paralympics GB visually impaired skiers over recent years winning many medals, how with the right support and opportunities blind and partially sighted people can achieve so much in sport at whatever level to finally thoughts on the legacy of both the Winter and Summer Paralympic Games.
To find out more about Paralympics GB and opportunities to get involved in some of the Paralympic sports do visit - https://paralympics.org.uk
And for more about other opportunities to get into sport as a visually impaired person do visit the British Blind Sport website - https://britishblindsport.org.uk
Once again, Channel 4 is providing a wealth of Audio Described coverage of the 2026 Winter Paralympics.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jonathan Penny, from Channel 4, to find out how you can enjoy the games with AD.
If you’d like more info on the coverage, or would like to give feedback on the AD coverage, go to www.channel4.com/4viewers
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The buzz continues for the visually impaired skiing squad at their official kitting-out day as the Italian Winter Paralympics draw near. Catching up with the team during these final preparations, Barry Snell spoke with rising star Sam Cozens and his guide
Adam Hall.
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Anticipation is peaking for the visually impaired skiing squad at their official kitting-out day as the Italian Winter Paralympics approach. Capturing the buzz of these final preparations, Barry Snell caught up with athlete Fred Warburton and his guide James Hannan.
Image shows Fred posing for an official photo in front of a navy blue background. He's wearing dark bottoms and a navy blue zip jacket and is doing finger guns at the camera.
As the Winter Paralympics in Italy draw closer, excitement is mounting for the visually impaired skiing team at their official kitting-out day. In the midst of these final preparations, Barry Snell spoke with skier Menna Fitzpatrick and her guide, Katie Guest.
Image shows Barry interviewing Menna and Katie. Menna sits on the left with Katie behind her. Barry is holding up a remote recorder as he sits in front of them, focused on what they're saying. They're all having a laugh.
With the Italy Winter Paralympics fast approaching, anticipation is building as ParalympicsGB’s visually impaired skiers come together for their official kitting‑out day. Amid the buzz of final preparations, Barry Snell caught up with ParalympicsGB CEO Dave Clarke to hear his thoughts and expectations ahead of the Games.
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As the Italy Winter Paralympics draw closer, ParalympicsGB’s visually impaired skiers came together for their official kitting‑out day. Amid the preparations, Barry Snell sat down with skiing trailblazer Mike Brace — the first blind athlete to represent Britain at a Winter Games back in 1976.
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VI skiers from Paralympics GB recently attended a kitting‑out day ahead of the Winter Paralympics, which will be held in Italy. RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell caught up with skiing sensation Neil Simpson and his guides Andrew and Rob, to hear how preparations are going.
Image shows Neil showing off a light blue official long sleeved shirt. He's smiling wide as he poses for a photo outside the changing rooms. Looking good Neil!
Let's look back at an exciting weekend of football action with former paralympic football player and CEO of British Paralympics Association, Dave Clarke.
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If you're blind or partially sighted and would like to try your hand at sailing a yacht, even if you’ve never stepped onto a boat before, there’s a summer week coming up that you might be interested in.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Vicki and Tony about the Sailing Vision Trust’s summer event.
If you’d like more info, or would like to apply, go to www.sailingvision.org
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A new weekly running group in Cardiff is giving blind and partially sighted people the chance to get active and make new friends. Hywel Davies has been finding out more.
For more information on the Cardiff VI Runners group, visit their Facebook Page - (1) Cardiff VI Runners | Facebook
Archie MacGregor has been running marathons for the RNIB since the mid-2000s. Having recently completed his 20th race, he caught up with David Hogg.
With news on a major tournament for disabled golfers, including those who are blind or partially sighted.
Here’s Allan Russell with Jim Gales from Phoenix Golf and Mark Arnold from American Blind Golf.
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One RNIB staff member is making his way to the Futsal World Championships in Turkey. Hywel Davies has been catching up with Neil Atkinson ahead of the prestigious tournament.
Following the World Para Athletics Championships which took place in New Delhi this year, British athlete Dan Pembroke retained his title by taking gold in the javelin throw for the third time in a row.
Now, that he has time to catch his breath following an intense period of training and preparation, Dan is joining us to reflect on how it all went and to share some exciting personal news.
Image shows Dan grinning and holding up his third gold medal at the World Championships.
British Blind Sport Are Celebrating 50 years and have a special event planned where you can get active.
Amelia spoke to Shamira Naidu-Young from BBS to learn more...
The festival of sport is taking place on Sunday 19th October, learn more here - BBS at 50 Festival of Sport | British Blind Sport
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If you are blind or partially sighted, and would like to see what sports you can play which have been created or adapted with sight loss in mind, the Lancashire Sight Loss Council is putting on an event to allow people to do just that.
The Women’s Blind Football World Cup kicks off on October the 2nd. Hywel Davies has been speaking to England’s Selina Prieto ahead of this year’s tournament in India.
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The England Women’s Blind Football team will be heading to the World Championships in India next month. Hywel Davies caught up with Head Coach Tony Larkin OBE, ahead of the tournament.
Find more information about this year's tournament at the IBFF website - The Home of Blind Football in India - Home
Could you be a future Paralympian?
The Paralympic Potential event at the University of Warwick on the 25th October is your chance to try out a variety of parasports.
Amelia spoke to Ben Quilter, Athlete Recruitment Network Manager, to learn more.
Learn more on the Paralympics GB website - ParalympicsGB | Paralympic potential: how to become a paralympian
The English FA are giving budding young footballers the chance to get started on the journey to representing their country. Hywel Davies has been finding out more.
For more information, visit the England Football website - England Para Football Talent Days | England Football
Robert Kirkwood finds out about Ayrshire Sportsability, an organisation promoting sport for both children and adults with disabilities in Scotland.
He spoke with Diane Campbell from the organisation.
Find out more here: Ayrshire Sportsability : Charity for Young People with Physical Disabilities
Image - A man and a woman stand side by side watching a game of lawn bowls. The woman, on the left, has shoulder-length hair and wears a blue shirt with the text 'Ayrshire Sportsability' and social media links on the back. The man, on the right, wears a white and blue sports shirt with 'Prestwick Howie' printed on the back, along with a light cap. In front of them, several players can be seen on the bowling green, with houses and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
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If you know an aspiring young sportsperson in Wales, then Goalball UK have an opportunity to get active this autumn and winter, as Hywel Davies has been finding out.
For more information on the upcoming Aspire Days visit the Goalball UK website - Welcome to Goalball UK: Homepage
Blind and partially sighted football fans were able to follow England football matches at this year’s UEFA Women’s Euros using audio description.
Hywel Davies has been hearing how the service was received and what’s next for broadcaster ITV.
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Recent research by Brighton University has led to some dedicated accessible open swimming sessions launching in the city.
Allan Russell spoke to Sadie Rockliffe to learn more...
Read more about the sessions on the University of Brighton Website - Pioneering new project explores inclusive open water swimming with visually impaired community
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Trials of a new way to enjoy tennis have been taking place at Wimbledon this year. Hywel Davies has been finding out more about ‘Action Audio’.
For more information on Action Audio, visit their website - Action Audio - Making sports broadcasts accessible to people living with blindness or low vision
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Cardiff City Community Foundation run football sessions for children of all abilities. Hywel Davies has been hearing about their ‘Inclusive Kicks’ sessions.
For more information on 'Inclusive Kicks' sessions, visit the Cardiff City Community Foundation website - Cardiff City FC Foundation | Inclusive Kicks Ages 5-11
Batter up! Blind Baseball Cymru and the RSBC are giving children and young people the chance to try Blind Baseball this summer. Hywel Davies has been finding out how you can get involved in the upcoming 'Give it a Go' days.
For more information on the 'Give it a Go' days, visit the Blind Baseball Cymru website - Give It a Go days! – Blind Baseball Cymru
Ever thought of giving surfing a go? Well, Surfing England has some visually impaired surf sessions coming up in August and September and you could join them in the water for a fun day of learning how to surf.
Joining us, to tell us more about the sessions, is Jack Patching, Adaptive Pathway Manager at Surfing England.
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The Goalball Clubs World Cup recently took place Finland. Hywel Davies has been speaking to the RNC’s Women’s Goalball team to hear how they got on in the tournament.
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ParalympicsGB recently announced the Chef de Mission for the upcoming 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.
Hywel Davies has been speaking with Penny Briscoe CBE about the importance of her role and the work that’s already begun in the lead-up to the LA games.
Image description: Penny in conversation during the Paris Paralympics Games 2024. She's sitting down, hands moving animatedly as she talks. She's wearing a white sports shirt with "Great Britain" written across the front. Her short blonde bob is parted in the middle and you can see a podium with ParalympicsGB branding behind her.
A weekend of disability football is on the horizon as the finals of the ‘EE FA Disability Cup’ are coming to St George’s Park. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the upcoming Blind Football Final.
For more information in the ‘EE FA Disability Cup’, visit the FA website - EE Disability FA Cup 2025
A weekend of disability football is on the horizon as the finals of the ‘EE FA Disability Cup’ are coming to St George’s Park. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the upcoming Visually Impaired final.
For more information in the ‘EE FA Disability Cup’, visit the FA website - EE Disability FA Cup 2025
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Our Daivd Hogg finds out about a devices that can make watching live football much more accessible for blind and partially sighted fans…
On the 14th June Scottish Disability Sport (SDS), supported by The Motability Scheme, are hosting a national exhibition for people with a disability to find out what sports and physical activities they can get involved in.
There will be opportunities to meet new people, learn about schemes and organisations that can offer support, and educational opportunities for people without disabilities to learn about inclusive practise and ways to make society more accessible.
It’s taking place from 10 am to 4pm at the University of Stirling and Amelia spoke to Para swimmer and SDS Board Member, Laura Pilkington, and Visually impaired athlete and VI Ambassador, Samantha Gough, to learn more.
Learn more on the SDS website - National Exhibition Event 2025 -
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Following their performance at last year’s European Goalball Club Association (EGCA) Women's Champions League, the RNC’s Women’s Goalball team has been invited to one of the sport's biggest tournaments next week. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the team’s preparations for the Goalball Club World Cup.
You can find more information on the official website of the tournament - goalballworldcup2025.com
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Goalball UK and The English FA have joined forces in the search for new female talent. Hywel Davies has been finding out about the ‘Female Futures’ programme.
For more information on the programme, including how to take part - visit the Goalball UK website - Female Futures Programme – Goalball UK and The FA Para Football joint initiative! - Goalball UK
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ITV and Guinness helped to make this year’s coverage of the Men’s Six Nations rugby tournament more accessible than ever. Hywel Davies has been finding out what the reaction has been like from sports fans.
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After a busy few weeks of action, Hywel Davies has been catching up with the latest news from the Fen Tigers Goalball team.
You can find more information on the Fen Tigers on their Facebook page - (20+) Facebook
RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell speaks to avid Alan Oliver and also to RNIB's Neil Atkinson, to learn how people living in Scotland can get involved in Disability Golf…
To Find out more about Scottish Golf click here
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Barry speaks to Esme Scantlebury from the charity Bloomsbury Football, who are aiming to help more blind and partially sighted children get access to football.
Learn more about Bloomsbury Football and the service they provide
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On 13 February 2025 Goalball UK published their Impact and Progress Report for 2024 with some great achievements for the sport too.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Mark winder, Chief Executive of Goalball UK for a summary of some of the highlights from their 2024 Impact and Progress Report, a bit of a reminder about what Goalball is, how Goalball UK will be celebrating their 15 year anniversary on 26 February 2025 and a mention of the LA Paralympic Games in 2028 too.
For more about Goalball UK, how to find your nearest club to have a go at the sport then do visit - https://goalballuk.com
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Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, the team break down league and European action.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at action from FA and Scottish Cups.
Barry Snell chats to Cameron McDiarmid, who is the golf club secretary at Dalmahoy and Country club.
Cameron is keen to promote blind golf and discusses, with Barry, its many benefits for people with sight loss.
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This February, the Cambridgeshire-based Fen Tigers goalball club will host the first qualifying round of the 2025 European Club Goalball Champions League competition. Hywel Davies has been speaking to Dan Roper ahead of the competition.
Find out more about the competition here - EGCA Champions League 2025, Peterborough Stage - Goalball UK
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at third-round FA Cup action, as well as a preview of next week’s fixtures.
In our weekly football round up ‘Down The Line’, football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. But in a very special episode, host Neil Atkinson speaks to group-member David about his experiences as a blind football fan.
Each year, Sailing Vision, runs a yachting week on the South Coast of England.
They encourage blind and partially sighted people to come along and try their hand at sailing along the picturesque coastline and you can be a complete novice with no sailing experience.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Vicki Sheen, from Sailing Vision, to find out more.
If you’d like more details, go to www.sailingvision.org
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Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font.
Publish date and t
Scottish Disability Golf and Curling is changing.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales to find out more.
If you’d like more details on the club, go to www.phoenixcup.org.uk
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In our weekly football round up ‘Down The Line’, football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. But in a very special episode, host Neil Atkinson speaks to RNIB Scotland volunteer Carl Macar about his experiences as a blind football fan.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at a busy week of fixtures.
Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at a busy week of fixtures.
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Stephen Clegg is a multi medal winning Paralympic swimmer and spoke to RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell about the benefits that come from participating in sport and physical activity.
You might be surprised to find out that it’s not just all about physical fitness and competition!
RNIBConnect
Image shows Stephen. He's a young man with short blonde hair and a touch of stubble. He's wearing a dark long sleeve polo shirt with his two gold medals from the Paralympic Games draped around his neck. The gold medal disks reflect light and hang off dark red ribbons.
The Partially Sighted Football League is a breeding ground for talent on the international stage, but it’s also a place for new players to pick up the game and have some fun. Hywel Davies has been finding out more.
For more information on the league, visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/PartiallySightedFootballLeague
Or visit the FA's page on Partially Sighted Football - Partially-sighted football
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A visually-impaired football fan and his guide dog have become the first pair to visit all 42 Scottish league grounds.
Jon Attenborough has been sharing his journey with RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell.
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Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at a week of upsets and ahead to Nations League fixtures.
Fantastic news now for Paralympics GB Gold medal winning Tandem cyclist Sophie Unwin as Sophie has just been shortlisted for The Sunday Times Citi Disability Sportswoman of the Year 2024 award.
Sophie and her Pilot Jenny Holl had a very successful Paris 2024 Paralympic Games winning Gold in the road race, Gold in the 3000m Individual pursuit, Silver in the Road Time Trial and a Bronze in the 1000m time trial.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey recently caught up with Sophie to find out more about how Sophie felt being shortlisted for this amazing award which celebrates the achievements of a number of Paralympic athletes who like Sophie won many medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Before chatting about being shortlisted for The Sunday Times Citi Disability Sportswoman of the Year 2024 award Toby asked Sophie to take us back to the very successful games in Paris for Paralympics GB, all the visually impaired athletes and of course Sophie and Jenny’s great wins and achievements in Paris too.
Sophie also talked about her Paralympic cycling career which really only started in 2021 and how much she is looking forward to the award ceremony in January 2025 and what a great opportunity the awards will be to celebrate all the women in sport from grass roots level right up to Olympic and Paralympic medalists like herself and Jenny.
For more about The Sunday Times Citi Sportswoman of the Year 2024 awards and the other categories do visit the awards website - https://www.sportswomenoftheyear.co.uk
(Image shows Sophie and Jenny crossing the finish line with their right hands in the air smiling) Credit ParalympicsGB
Dundee United supporter Jon Attenborough and guide dog Sam recently became the first man and dog pair to visit every single SPFL stadium. RNIB's Neil Atkinson spoke to Jon about his experiences.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at a busy week of domestic and European fixtures.
The English FA have launched a new strategy to guide their disability football sides over the next four years. Hywel Davies spoke to the FA’s Head of Para Performance to find out how the strategy will be implemented.
You can read the strategy in full at this link - Football without limits - FA Disability Football Strategy | England Football
The very first VI Rugby tournament will be held in the UK later this month. Hywel Davies has been hearing how you can be there in person.
The England Visually Impaired Futsal side are in action this week at the sport’s European Championships in Turkey. Hywel Davies spoke to captain John McDougall ahead of the tournament kicking off.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at a busy weekend of fixtures.
Have you ever fancied trying out blind baseball? Well Hubert has been speaking to the UK Blind Baseball association to learn more about the sport, and what’s being done around the UK to promote it.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at some of the recent international fixtures in the Nations League, plus a look ahead to this weekend’s domestic fixtures.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at a busy run of games across the leagues.
Each month RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell talks with the team at British Blind Sport about their various events and opportunities for blind and partially sighted people to try some new sports and activities.
This time they're looking at another free Have A Go Day and a swim gala for all abilities.
If you’d like more info, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
You can also call 01926 424247 or email info@britishblindsport.org.uk
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Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back at a busy run of games across the leagues.
In the build up to this weekend’s ‘Blind Baseball International Cup’, we’ve been hearing about preparations for the event from hosts ‘British Baseball’ and organisers, the ‘World Baseball Softball Confederation’.
More information on tickets for the competition can be found here - World Baseball Softball Confederation Blind Baseball International Cup '24 Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
You can find more on Team GB on their Facebook page - www.facebook.com/UKBlindbaseball
Image: Text reads "WBSC Blind Baseball International Cup, London 2024" On the dark blue background is the tournament logo, a colourful stick-man figure playing baseball.
Great Britain are in action this weekend at the ‘Blind Baseball International Cup’. Hywel Davies has been hearing about preparations for the tournament, plus how you can get involved.
More information on tickets for the competition can be found here - World Baseball Softball Confederation Blind Baseball International Cup '24 Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
You can find more on Team GB on their Facebook page - www.facebook.com/UKBlindbaseball
Image: Text reads "WBSC Blind Baseball International Cup, London 2024" On the dark blue background is the tournament logo, a colourful stick-man figure playing baseball.
Recording of the event held in the Grimaldi building in London to celebrate the British Paralympics Team's fantastic success in Paris.
Attending the event as guest speakers for the fireside chat we had David Clarke, Chief Executive of Paralympics GB, swimmers and twin sisters Scarlett and Eliza Humphrey, as well as javelin athlete Dan Pembroke.
Image shows: Sitting on high chairs from left to right: David, Scarlett, Eliza, and Dan. They're smiling and the sisters are clapping.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back on the home nations performances in the Nations League, plus a preview of the weekend’s action across the leagues.
Erica Powell James is a CrossFit Athlete and business owner. She shares her story with David Hogg.
At the final Paralympics GB press conference of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, 124 medals with 49 gold, 44 silver and 31 bronze, Penny Briscoe, Paralympics GB Chef de Mission reflects on how the Paris games have gone for Paralympics GB with RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey.
Penny talks to Toby about the amazing achievements of all Paralympics GB athletes across the board, the number of Paralympic World Records that have been broken and how the great success in Paris will help to inspire many visually impaired people back home to get into sport at whatever level they want too.
(Image shows Penny with the press conference stage behind her at Paralympics GB house smiling towards the camera) Credit ParalympicsGB
As the curtain came down on the 2024 Paralympic Games, held in Paris.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke with David Clarke, CEO of the British Paralympic Association, to discuss the athletes success, the search for new Paralympians and a look ahead to the next Games in Los Angeles in 2028.
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Images Shows RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell Chatting with David Clarke, CEO of the British Paralympic Association
With over 17 million viewers tuning into Channel 4’s coverage of the 2014 Paralympic Games, what were the thoughts on the audio described coverage?
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jonathan Penny, Channel 4’s Access Services Manager, to discuss the work that went into making the coverage the most accessible so far.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell Chatting With Jonathan Penny, Channel 4’s Access Services Manager on Paralympics GB House Terrace
In the last day of competitions in the swimming pool on Saturday evening (7 September 2024) of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Stephen Clegg wins another Gold for Paralympics GB in the S12 Men’s 100 Metres Butterfly.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Stephen just after the final of the Men’s S12 100 Metres Butterfly to find out how the race had gone for him with a very close finish. Stephen also reflects on his Gold and World Record earlier in the games in the S12 Men’s 100 Metres Back Stroke and how swimming and sport have helped him through some difficult times and how the success of the whole of the Paralympics GB swimming team will help to encourage visually impaired young people into sport whether that might be swimming or other sports.
(Image shows Stephen at the La Défense arena with his medal around his neck) Credit ParalympicsGB
Rob Davies, from Wales, will be taking home a silver medal from the Paris Paralympics.
He spoke to Allan Russell before taking a well deserved break.
Rob with his silver medal around his neck sits in his wheelchair, whilst Allan holds up a microphone, sitting to his right. Rob has short dark hair and a bit of a stubble.
After scooping 4 medals on the tandem, Sophie Unwin and Jenny Holl spoke to Allan Russell about their incredibly successful Paralympic Games in Paris.
Image shows Jenny on the left, with Allan sitting across from her and Sophie on a comfy terrace chair across from them. Jenny has light brown hair sleeked back into a low bun and Sophie has a short dark tousled pixie cut.
We’re here at Paralympics GB House where we’re joined by swimmers Poppy Maskill and Will Ellard, teen swimmers that made a splash in the pool. Between them, they’re not just bringing home 8 medals but have also smashed world records.
Let’s hear more as our Paulina spoke with them on the terrace.
Image shows Will and Poppy smiling and holding up their medals as they sit on the terrace of Paralympics GB House. Will is on the left, has short dark hair, and is holding up two Gold and one Silver medal. Poppy is next to him, has long dark blonde hair, and is holding up one gold medal, another one in her lap and the third one around her neck. Her two silver medals are held in her other hand, just out of shot.
And we’re back at the terrace of Paralympics GB House were Paulina spoke with a 14-year-old table tennis star, Bly Twomey ahead of her return home with two Bronze medals.
Image shows Bly sitting on the terrace. She's smiling and has her two medals around her neck.
An amazing achievement for Sophie Unwin and her Pilot Jenny Holl on winning Gold in the women’s Para Cycling Road Race at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games on Friday 6 September 2024.
Coming in to the last 1000 metres of the just over 99km race it was between Sophie and Jenny and the Irish Team of Katie-George Dunlevy and Linda Kelly but a fantastic flying downhill sprint finish from Sophie and Jenny to win the Gold.
(Image shows Sophie and Jenny crossing the finish line with their right hands in the air smiling) Credit ParalympicsGB
What is laser run? Our David Hogg chats to para laser run European champion Dr Harriett Dunn to find out…
More from the swimming at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey chats with a a very joyful Rebecca Redfern just after she had been presented with her SB13 100 Metres Breaststroke Gold medal.
Rebecca previously had won Silver at both the Rio and Tokyo Paralympic Games and to finally come away with a Gold is such an amazing result for Rebecca.
Reflecting on winning her Gold medal, Rebecca tells Toby how that final race was for her coming in to the race being the fastest in the heats and how good it was to have her family and friends there in Paris to see her win the Gold medal.
(Image shows Rebecca holding her gold medal and Phryge mascot at the la Défense Arena) Credit: ParalympicsGB
As comedian Chris McCausland competes on Strictly this coming season, we spoke with ballroom dancer Janet about how she got into dancing and also what advice she has for Chris.
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VI Sports-lover Geoff Smith was at the Paralympics to watch GB play Wheelchair Rugby.
He was offered a Touch2See tablet for the games and told Amelia about his experience using the tech and the atmosphere around the games.
Image shows Geoff smiling at the camera. He is a white man with cropped brown hair, blue eyes and glasses and there is a clay-coloured wall behind him.
After trying different sports, Anna Nicholson settled on throwing the shot put.
She told Allan Russell about her win in Paris.
Image shows Anna sitting on the left as she's interviewed by Allan. Her blonde hair is braided and she's wearing Team Britain's white and navy hoodie and track bottom set. Her medal is around her neck and she wears glasses.
Zoe Newson didn’t want to try power lifting but after some encouragement, she’s a Paralympic medal winner.
She spoke to Allan Russell in Paris.
Image shows Zoe sitting down with Allan for an interview. Zoe is on the left, has long brown hair and is wearing a white Great Britain long sleeve and navy track bottoms. The silver medal is around her neck.
Let’s cross over to the terrace at Paralympics GB House, where Paulina spoke with Britain's Dan Pembroke following his gold-medal win in Paris.
Image shows Dan smiling as he poses on the terrace. His face is lit with the morning sunlight and he's wearing a white Great Britain hoodie. His head is shaved and he has a short-trimmed ginger beard.
More from the swimming at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey catches up with Scarlett Humphrey just after competing in her final race of her first games with a 6th in the SB11 Women’s 100 Metre Breaststroke final in a time of 1:30.61.
Scarlet reflects on her first Paralympic Games for her and twin sister Eliza, competing in the 4 x 100 metres relay the night before with fellow visually impaired Paralympics GB swimmers Rebecca Redfern, Matthew Redfern and Stephen Clegg and a great showcase from the swimming in Paris which Scarlet hopes will encourage other visually impaired people to take up the sport too.
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Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This week they reflect on an exciting week of domestic fixtures then look ahead to some tough international games.
As we arrive at the midway point of the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, Allan Russell spoke with British Paralympic Association’s CEO David Clarke to get his thoughts on the story so far.
Image shows a close up of David Clarke with a microphone held up for Allan just off from the left side.
More medals for Paralympics GB Para Cyclists as Lora Fachie and her Pilot win a bronze medal in the Individual Road Time Trials at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and not that far behind Sophie Unwin and her Pilot Jenny Holl with their Silver medal.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Lora and Corrine just after the road time trials had finished to find out how they got on in the heat of the afternoon out on the roads of Clichy-Sous-Bois.
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More Paris 2024 Paralympic Games now with the road cycling time trials as our Toby Davey chats with Sophie Unwin and her pilot Jenny Holl just after they won Silver in the Individual Road Time Trials.
Image shows Toby in his RNIB white t-shirt, with headphones around his neck as he smiles, posing in front of the road race track.
What is it like to celebrate a medal win at Paralympics GB House?
Join Paulina as para swimmers Grace Harvey, Callie-Ann Warrington, and Ellie Challis get cheered on as they get to ring the Paralympics GB House Bell.
Image shows a crowd of people cheering and clapping in the foreground with athletes draped in British flags walking in the distance. From the left side you can see an arm with a long selfie stick holding up a phone high to film the athletes walking towards the bell.
Let's check in with Paralympics GB House as Allan Russell chats with Krysten Coombs, who won silver in para badminton at the Paralympic Games this year.
Image shows Allan interviewing Krysten at one of the couches at Paralympics GB terrace. Allan is on the left dressed in a pink RNIB t-shirt and is holding up his recorder to Krysten who is decked out in Great Britain white sports shirts and navy track bottoms. His medal is draped over his neck.
In the final of the Men’s SL3 Para Badminton at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games on Tuesday (3 September 2024) Bethell in his second Paralympic Games won a Silver with just missing out on Gold to Kumar Nitesh of India.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Dan on the terrace of Paralympics GB House to find out how the competition for Dan had been over the whole games and how he was feeling winning his Silver medal and just missing out on Gold.
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Robert Doorington is one of the Paralympics GB Volunteers who has been helping to ensure that everything runs smoothly at Paralympics GB House in Paris, meeting some of the Paralympics GB Athletes and ensuring that they get to there press interviews on time.
Robert tells RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey why he wanted to become a Paralympics GB Volunteer in Paris, what it has been like meeting some of the athletes and what he will take away from the experience being out here in Paris and being a Volunteer for Paralympics GB.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
It takes a lot of organisation to look after all the athletes competing in the Paralympics 2024 in Paris and Allan Russell got to head behind the scenes with House Co-Ordinator Terri Race for a tour of GB House
On the terrace of Paralympics GB House RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Dave Ellis and his pilot Luke Pollard who won a Gold in the Paratriathlon PTVI classification at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Following a few moves of the start of the Paratriathlon Dave and Luke’s start got away at 12 noon on Monday 2 September 2024 and about half an hour before Dave’s partner Claire Cashmore competed in the PTS5 classification and coming away with a Silver medal too.
Image shows Toby talking with Dave and Luke on the terrace at GB house
And more form the terrace at Paralympics GB House were Allan Russell chats with gold winning cyclists Neil Fachie and his pilot Matthew Rotherham.
Image shows from left to right: Neil, Allan, and Matthew sitting on a couch at the Paralympics GB House terrace. Neil is holding up his gold medal and everyone is smiling.
And more form the terrace at Paralympics GB House were Allan Russell chats with gold winning cyclists James Ball and his pilot Stefan Lloyd.
Image shows James and Stefan posing in their white 'Great Britain' t-shirts and showing off their gold medals, which hang on a red ribbon.
Let’s check in with the Velodrome in Paris, where Allan spoke with Ireland’s paracycling duo Martin Gordon and Eoin Mullen.
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We're at Paralympics GB House in Paris where our Paulina Kuchorew spoke with Sabrina Fortune, who not only won gold at the Paralympics for the F20 shot put, but also broke her own world record.
Image shows Sabrina on the terrace of Paralympics GB House, she is holding up her gold medal and a plushie of the official mascot, The Phryge.
At the Velodrome, Lora Fachie and Corrine Hall win bronze in Women's B 3000m Individual Pursuit.
Allan Russell spoke with them shortly after their race.
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Allan Russell chats with Neil Fachie and pilot Matthew Rotherham, following their men’s B 1000m time trial silver win.
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James Ball and pilot Steffan Lloyd won gold in the men’s B 1000m time trial at the Paris Paralympic Games.
Our Allan Russell spoke with them following their tense and very successful race.
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Allan Russell speaks with Para Cyclist Sophie Unwin and pilot Jenny Holl following their B 3000m individual pursuit gold.
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Following on from a first in the second repechage on Saturday (31 August 2024) of the PR3 Mixed Double Skulls rowing category at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, on Sunday (1 September 2024) Annie Caddick and Sam Murray who is visually impaired win Silver in the final of this new rowing category for the Paralympic Games which was a close race between them and Australia who won the Gold..
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Annie and Sam just after they had been presented with their Silver medals to find out how that final race had gone for them and how their achievements in this new rowing category at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games will help to encourage other visually impaired and disabled people to get in to rowing.
image shows Toby interviewing Sam and Annie with their silver medals stood next to the rowing lake at Stade nautique de Vaires-sur-Marne
Pool side at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games as Stephen Clegg not only wins a Gold but a Paralympics World Record in the Men’s S12 100 Metres Back Stroke final on Saturday evening 31 August 2024.
RNIB Connect radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Stephen just after he had been awarded his Gold medal to find out how the race had gone for him and what it feels like not only winning Gold but also smashing the Paralympics World Record too.
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At the Paralympic GB House in Paris we caught up with para table tennis stars Bly Twomey and Fliss Pickard, following their bronze medal win in the women’s class 14 event.
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Following on from a second in the heats on Friday (30 August 2024)in the PR3 Mixed Double Skulls rowing category at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, on Saturday morning (31 August 2024) in the second repechage Annie Caddick and Sam Murray who is visually impaired make it into the final on Sunday (1 September 2024) after an incredible win.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Annie and Sam just after they had won the second repechage with that massive lead to find out how the race had gone for them and how they are feeling going into the final on Sunday.
Image shows Toby interviewing Sam and Annie by the rowing lake at Stade nautique de Vaires-sur-Marne.
With the swimming in full swing at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with twins Scarlet and Eliza Humphrey who were competing in the Women’s S11 400 Metres Free Style final on Friday Night (30 August 2024).
Sadly no medals so far for Scarlet and Eliza at their first Paralympic Games with 6 place for Scarlet (just over 23 seconds behind the leader) and 8th place for Eliza (just over 40 seconds behind the leader).
There will be more than likely Paralympic medals for the Humphrey Twins in the future as they continue on their Paralympic swimming career.
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As the 2024 Paralympics get underway in Paris, Allan Russell chats with British Paralympics Association CEO David Clarke.
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Hubert has been visiting the flag ship paralympic fan zone at Battersea Power Station, which was opened by Paralympians Danielle Brown MBE and Kylie Grimes. In this podcast Hubert speaks to Kylie about the personal impact of her paralympic achievements, what impact she feels they have on women’s sport and the impact she hopes the fan zones will have.
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Hubert has been visiting the flag ship Paralympic fan zone location at Battersea Power Station, which was opened by Paralympians Danielle Brown MBE, and Kylie Grimes, here Hubert speaks to Danielle about her experience at the Paralympic games, and what these sorts of locations launching means to her and paralympic sports.
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Ocean Outdoor and Paralympics GB have launched for the first time paralympic fan zone locations around England for fans to get together, watch the games, socialist and try out various different sports. Hubert has visited the flag ship location at Battersea Power station, and he managed to grab a chat with the Power Station’s marketing director Louise Errington-Thomas.
Our Paralympics correspondent Toby Davey checks in from Paris during Thursday's Afternoon Edition show with David Hogg.
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Our sports correspondent Toby Davey checks in from Paris during Thursday's Daily Connect with Barry Snell.
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Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. What’s the verdict after the first round of fixtures in Scotland?
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This time sports fans will be able to enjoy the Paralympic game sin a very different way, as Ocean Outdoor together with Paralympics GB are putting on Fan Zone events in different locations around the country for fans to get together, connect with each other and soak up the atmosphere of the games. Hubert has been speaking to Ocean Outdoor to find out more.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking back on the first round of action in the Premier League.
With the great British Olympic Rowing Team coming back from Paris with 8 medals and the Paralympics GB Rowing squad including visually impaired rower Sam Murray hoping for medals in Paris too. Have you ever wondered about taking up rowing as a blind or partially sighted person whether that might just be for pleasure or maybe having your sights on representing Paralympics GB at a future Paralympic Games?
Well, RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey recently caught up with Nick Baker, who is Paralympic Head Coach at British Rowing to find out the best ways to start rowing as a visually impaired person whether it is at your local rowing club or looking at the pathways of getting into the Paralympics GB Rowing Squad.
For details about where to find your nearest rowing club and for more on how to get into Paralympic Rowing do visit the British Rowing website - https://www.britishrowing.org
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With the Paris Paralympic Games just around the corner here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired athletes who will be competing out in Paris with the hope of winning some medals too.
At the home of British Rowing in Caversham just outside Reading and on the edge of the Redgrave Pinsent Rowing Lake RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Paralympics GB visually impaired rower Sam Murray who will be competing in Paris in the new PR3 mixed double sculls boat class with Annie Caddic.
Rowing in this new event will see Sam fulfil a Paralympic aspiration that started at a talent identification event back in 2007 where he was first noted as a potential rower.
Sam and Annie have rowed together since 2023 and were recently crowned European champions.
Sam tells Toby about how he got into rowing, being inspired by tales of his Great Grandfather who was a Thames Lighterman, how he and Annie feel coming into the Paris Games as European Champions in this new boat class, how rowing in the mixed double sculls differs from the mixed coxed four and how it works on the boat between him and Annie.
To find out more about the Paris Paralympic Games do visit the official games website - https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/paralympic-games
Image shows Sam stood with the Redgrave Pinsent Rowing Lake behind him wearing a navy team GB t shirt with his arms folded looking towards the camera
A BBC documentary sets out to explore the intersectionality of race and disability in Welsh sport, it's hosted by ‘VI Rugby’ player Mona Jethwa. Hywel Davies has been hearing more.
You can watch the documentary by following this link - New Voices from Wales - Series 7: 3. The Way I Play - BBC iPlayer
Some of the world’s best goalball players will be making their way to the UK in 2025. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the Fen Tigers’ plans for hosting the one of the biggest tournaments in the sport.
You can find out more about the Fen Tigers and the European Goalball Championship on their Facebook page - Facebook
Image: Fen Tigers Goalball logo, a tiger's face in black and orange with piercing green eyes.
With the Paris Paralympic Games just around the corner here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired athletes who will be competing out in Paris with the hope of winning some medals too.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Tokyo 2020 Paralympics GB Judo Gold medal champion Chris Skelley MBE to find out how he and the rest of the Paralympics GB visually impaired Judo athletes are feeling with the games just around the corner.
Due to changes within Para Judo in Paris Chris will be competing in the J2+90kg category along with fellow Paralympics GB VI Judo athletes Daniel Powell in the J1 -90kg category and making his Paralympics debut in Paris Evan Molloy in the J2 -90kg category.
Chris also talks about how Judo had turned his life around and the benefits of sport for anyone who is visually impaired.
To find out more about the Paris Paralympic Games do visit the games website -
https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/paralympic-games
Image shows Chris wearing dark glasses in front of a white background making a heart symbol with his thumbs and forefingers.
With the Paris Paralympic Games just around the corner here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired athletes who will be competing out in Paris with the hope of winning some medals too.
With 5 Paralympics GB visually impaired swimmers competing in the swimming competition starting on 29 August 2024 in the swimming pool of the Paris La Défense Arena RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with two time Paralympics silver swimming medalist Rebecca Redfern MBE to find out how Rebecca and the rest of the Paralympics GB visually impaired swimmers are finding things at the moment with not long to go now until the start of the games.
To find out more about the Paris Paralympic Games do visit the games website -
https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/paralympic-games
Image shows Rebecca Redfern wearing a navy team GB t-shirt with her hands on her hips smiling towards the camera. Photo Credit: ParalympicsGB
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. This time, looking ahead to the start of the Premier League, along with the latest results in Scotland.
If you are looking to get into Goal Ball, or you are very much the professional in the sport, a new club has now launched in Chelmsford, and Hubert has been talking to the people behind the club launch to find out more.
Football-loving members of RNIB ‘Community Connections’ telephone groups get together each week to talk about the latest going on in leagues across Scotland and England. What’s the verdict after the first round of fixtures in Scotland?
As the football season gets underway in Scotland, members of RNIB Community Connections Telephone groups have got together to share their thoughts on the upcoming action this weekend.
Barry Snell caught up with charity fundraiser Blind Dave Heeley to talk about his latest fundraising challenge, which will see Dave and his team cycle from Switzerland to Belgium, where they will cycle to the famous Western Front, which was where many soldiers lost their lives during World War One.
Click here to learn more about Dave and some of his incredible fundraising challenges
Image: Blind Dave Heeley riding on the back of a tandem cycle. He is wearing professional cycling gear which is basically a black and white and he also is wearing a black and white cycle helmet.
As we approach the 2024 Paralympic Games, being held in Paris, Channel 4 has announced its accessible coverage plans.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jonathan Penny, from Channel 4, to hear about the coverage that will be audio described for blind and partially sighted viewers.
If you’d like more info on the coverage, go to www.channel4.com
RNIBConnect
Image: Channel 4's line up of presenters, commentators and reporters posing in front of Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
A few months ago we told you about a new cricket club that has launched in the Hemel Hempstead area.
Hubert has been speaking to Richard the club coach and former England player Steve Humphries who plays for the club to see how the club has been progressing.
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Football-loving members of RNIB's peer support groups are getting together to discuss highlights from Euro 24. This time, they’re looking back on Spain’s win and England’s future.
Image: Euro 2024 Logo. White text on a blue background reads ' UEFA Euro 2024, Germany'. The logo also contains the championship trophy in front of a colourful circle design.
If you fancy giving bowls a go, and live in the Leicestershire area, there’s a club in the area that is looking for new members.
Hubert spoke to their club captain to learn more.
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Football-loving members of RNIB's peer support groups are getting together to discuss highlights from Euro24 so far. This time, they’re looking ahead to Sunday’s tournament final.
Image: Euro 2024 Logo. White text on a blue background reads ' UEFA Euro 2024, Germany'. The logo also contains the championship trophy in front of a colourful circle design.
Football-loving members of RNIB's peer support groups are getting together to discuss highlights from Euro24 so far. This time, they’re looking ahead to this week’s semi-finals.
Image: Euro 2024 Logo. White text on a blue background reads ' UEFA Euro 2024, Germany'. The logo also contains the championship trophy in front of a colourful circle design.
Each month RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell talks with the team at British Blind Sport about their various events and opportunities for blind and partially sighted people, of all ages, to try some new sports and activities.
This time they're looking at some Have A Go Days, the new game of Showdown and some sporty podcasts.
If you’d like more info, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
You can also call 01926 424247 or email info@britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
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Football-loving members of RNIB's peer support groups are getting together to discuss highlights from Euro 2024 so far. This time, looking back on England’s path to the last 16, Italy’s shock defeat, and predictions of who might win the tournament.
Image: Euro 2024 Logo. White text on a blue background reads ' UEFA Euro 2024, Germany'. The logo also contains the championship trophy in front of a colourful circle design.
A new sports project in South Wales is helping blind and partially sighted people to get their skates on. Hywel Davies spoke to one of the participants in Cardiff Bay to find out more.
For more information on the IS-vid skating project, visit the website - IS-vid_Accessible | iChope Events CIC
A new sports project in South Wales is helping blind and partially sighted people to get their skates on. Hywel Davies headed to Cardiff Bay to find out more.
For more information on the IS-vid skating project, visit the website - IS-vid_Accessible | iChope Events CIC
Image: Skaters on the ice at the Vindico Arena in Cardiff.
One of the biggest events in disability football take place this weekend. Hywel Davies has been finding out how you can enjoy the FA Disability Cup in person and on TV.
For tickets and more information, visit the FA website - The FA Disability Cup 2024 Final returns to St. George’s Park this summer
Image: A plain black background with white text 'The FA Disability Cup' and a yellow graphic of a football trophy.
The Royal National College For The Blind's football team are preparing for Saturday's FA Disability Cup Final, where they face West Bromwich Albion at St Georges Park
If successful it will cap off a remarkable season for RNC, who have already won the treble.
Barry caught up with their coach Adam Bendall to find out how the squad is doing?
To find out more about The Royal National College For The Blind click here
RNIBConnect
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Football-loving members of RNIB's peer support groups are getting together to discuss highlights from Euro24 so far. This time, looking back at the group stage of the tournament and what’s next for some of the tournament favourites.
Image: Euro 2024 Logo. White text on a blue background reads ' UEFA Euro 2024, Germany'. The logo also contains the championship trophy in front of a colourful circle design.
As we approach the start of the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, Lizzi Jordan is aiming for a Podium Place.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell found out why she took up sport and why more blind and partially sighted people should get active.
Image Shows Para Cyclist Lizzi Jordan.
What is it like to attend a rugby game if you’re blind or partially sighted?
Luci Franks recently went to Twickenham Stadium to see the England v Ireland game for Women's Six Nations Championship.
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Football-loving members of RNIB's peer support groups are getting together to discuss highlights from Euro24 so far. This time, looking back on wins for England and Italy and a dramatic defeat for Scotland.
If you'd like more information on any of the support groups offered by RNIB, contact the helpline on 0303 123 9999.
Image: Euro 2024 Logo. White text on a blue background reads ' UEFA Euro 204, Germany'. The logo also contains the championship trophy in front of a colourful circle design.
As preparations get underway for the kick off to Euro 24, members of RNIB's peer support groups got together to discuss the build up to the tournament and their all important predictions for the eventual winners.
If you'd like more information on any of the support groups offered by RNIB, contact the helpline on 0303 123 9999.
Image: Euro 2024 Logo. White text on a blue background reads ' UEFA Euro 204, Germany'. The logo also contains the championship trophy in front of a colourful circle design.
Football Fan Jonathon Attenborough and his guide dog Sam are undertaking a football challenge that will take in all the SPFL stadiums in Scotland.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jonathon to find out what he loves about the game and how accessible the stadiums that he's visited so far, really are.
RNIBConnect
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Sight Loss charity British Blind Sport, are supporting McDonald’s Fun Football to deliver free football sessions to UK-based blind and partially sighted children who are aged five to 11.
Barry Snell caught up with British Blind Sport's Head of Sport and Development, Ian Isham, to find out more.
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The game of blind golf is growing around the world and there are many charities that will help you to play for fun, or even play in national and international competitions.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales and Glen Babcock to find out more about the game and how to start.
If you'd like to find out more, go to www.scottishdgc.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image Shows Jim Gales With A Club Resting On His Left Shoulder
If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at a new sport then ‘Have a Go Days’ from British Blind Sport are a great way to give something new a try. There are events across the UK this summer, as Hywel Davies has been finding out.
For more information on upcoming 'Have a Go Days' visit the BBS website - 'Have a Go' Days | British Blind Sport
Training sessions are underway in North Wales for the area’s first Goalball side. Hywel Davies has been hearing how preparations have been going and how you can get involved, both on and off the court.
For more information, and to register your interest, please contact Kathryn Fielding:
Tel: 07795 263642 or Email: Kathryn.Fielding@goalballuk.com
Image: Goalball UK logo, white text on a blue background which reads 'Goalball UK'.
Dance can be a great way to not only move your body, but also socialise, and express yourself. And it’s even greater when it’s inclusive.
Joining our Paulina Kuchorew to chat about Unbound Dance Theatre, a new inclusive dance company, is their artistic director Sandrine Monin and one of their VI performers and board members Helen Davies.
For more information visit: Unbound Dance Theatre: Inclusive Dance for Visually Impaired
Image shows Unbound Dance Theatre logo. On a dark navy square a chalk-like drawn circle with 'UNBOUND' written in the centre in white and 'Dance Theatre' written in light pink underneath the word. The letter 'O' in unbound is a spiral made out of circles of varying sizes.
Goalball UK’s Performance Pathway Programme is benefitting players across the country, both on and off the court. Hywel Davies caught up with one of the pathway’s newest members to talk goalball, fundraising and marathon running.
It’s Mental Health Awareness Week and this year’s theme is movement, from small simple things like dancing around your kitchen or going out for a walk to doing martial arts and doing a tandem ride.
Today, our Paulina hears about an inclusive judo club in Scotland with John Kane from Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion.
Follow the club here.
Image shows Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion. On a deep blue background two yellow drawn hands reach out for a handshake. Above the hands 'Hamilton, Judo Club, Inclusion' is written in 3 rows in yellow.
It’s Mental Health Awareness Week and this year’s theme is movement, from small simple things like dancing around your kitchen or going out for a walk to doing martial arts and doing a tandem ride.
Today, our Paulina chats with one young man about his love of judo and how he fell in love with the sport.
Follow Hamilton Judo club on Facebook here.
Image shows Daniel and senior coach Christopher Martin posing together in front of a Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion banner. They're dressed in their white judogi, the traditional uniform comprising of three parts: a very heavy jacket, lighter canvas pants, and a cotton belt. Daniel's belt is bright orange and Christopher's is black. They're both holding up a thumbs up and Daniel is showing off his medal in his other hand.
To close our preview series for this year’s season, we take a look at new cricket clubs that hope to join in the fun. Here, Hubert speaks to the coach of the new Hemel Hempstead Cricket Club Richard Grayson.
The sport of Goalball is played across the world, and you can try your hand at the game in South Wales later this month. Hywel Davies as been catching up with the team at South Wales Goalball Club.
You can find more information on the South Wales Goalball website: Clwb Pêl-Gôl De Cymru | South Wales Goalball Club (google.com)
What’s it like being a VI match-going football fan? Our David Hogg spoke to Jerry McColgan, a life-long Celtic supporter to find out…
The penultimate piece in our VI Cricket 2024 season preview series, as Hubert speaks to Somerset Cricket Club.
RNIB’s Accessible Stadia Guide aims to make blind or partially sighted match-going fans have as stress free a time as possible supporting their team. David Hogg spoke to Alexis Dobbin from Celtic to find out what’s on offer at Parkhead.
Time for another preview for the 2024 season of VI Cricket, this time Hubert chats to Northamptonshire who have been promoted back to division 1.
Yahya Pandor, an RNIB See Sport Differently Ambassador recently completed the Manchester Marathon becoming the first person with sight loss to complete a marathon without being tethered to their guide. He spoke with our David Hogg.
Mark Rogerson has done something no European with sight loss has done before, he’s run all six of the world’s major marathons and raised 25 thousand pounds for RNIB. Following his final marathon in Boston, he spoke to our David Hogg.
The World Triathlon Para Series makes its way back to the UK this summer. Hywel Davies spoke to the Head of Paratriathlon at British Triathlon ahead of the event.
More from our VI Cricket Preview series as Hubert talks to Andy and Rory from Metro Cricket.
Next in our Vi Cricket 2024 season preview series, as Hubert shines the spotlight on Lancashire Lions, and talks to players about last season’s achievements, and asks about hopes for the next season.
The Great Bristol Run returns in May. Hywel Davies has been hearing about a special challenge for VI runners taking place at this year’s event.
You can sign up for the event and find more information here - Bristol VI Runners Challenge - Great Run
RNIB Scotland, Cricket Scotland and Scottish Disability Sport have teamed up to organise an adaptive and inclusive cricket event for blind and partially sighted people in Scotland of all ages.
The event is due to take place at Glasgow's Bellahouston Park on Saturday 27th of April and will have both visually impaired and sighted players learning to play the game which will be adapted for those with sight loss. Sighted players will also have the opportunity to wear simulation glasses or eye shades so that they can experience the same challenges as their visually impaired counterparts .
Barry Snell caught up with RNIB's Conor Joseph to find out more.
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Barry Snell learns about the facilities Heart of Midlothian FC provide for their blind and partially sighted football fans.
He is talking to Hearts disability access officer Keith Ferguson.
Click to learn more about accessibility within Tynecastle Park
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Take a swing at golf with England and Wales Blind Golf. They’re on the lookout for new members, collaborators, and guides to help more blind and partially sighted people get active and make new connections.
Amelia talked to Andy Gilford and John Kennedy from EWBG for an update on their Spring events.
Visit their website ewblindgolf.co.uk/ to learn more
Image shows England and Wales Blind Golf logo, featuring a red silhouette in a baseball cap, swinging a golf club.
The Great Bristol Run is making its way back to Bristol this May. Part of the event will be a special 10k run just for VI runners and their guides. As Hywel Davies has been finding out.
To start this VI Cricket series previewing the 2024 season, Hubert has been speaking to the development league team Berkshire Stags about their reflections on the last season, and their hopes for the upcoming season.
The World Triathlon Para Series makes its way back to the UK this summer. Hywel Davies spoke to British PTVI athlete Oscar Kelly as he prepares to take part in the event once again.
Find out more information about the event here - 2024 World Triathlon Para Series Swansea – British Triathlon
Barry Snell chats with visually impaired football fan Billy Gilroy, to find out what the matchday experience is like for him following the Scottish football club Hearts FC.
Find out more about the service Hearts provide for their disabled supporters
{Image shows a bold pink 5-lane running track, white lines divide the lanes as they disappear into the distance with See Sport Differently in black letters below}
The Vindico Arena in Cardiff Bay will be hosting a new series of ice-skating sessions that have been specially designed for blind and partially sighted people. Hywel Davies has been hearing more about the IS-vid project.
Find out more here: IS-vid_Accessible | iChope Events CIC
The World Triathlon Para Series makes its way back to the UK this summer. Hywel Davies spoke to British Triathlon’s CEO Ruth Daniels as preparations for the event get underway.
Find out more information about the event here - 2024 World Triathlon Para Series Swansea – British Triathlon
A new series of tennis lessons aim to make it easier than ever for blind and partially sighted people to take part in the sport. As Hywel Davies has been finding out.
You can find out more about the Wrexham Tennis Centre here - Wrexham Tennis Centre / Wrexham Tennis Centre (lta.org.uk)
For the 2024 6 Nations Rugby, ITV1 tested out live audio description, for 2 matches, for it's blind and partially sighted customers.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to David Padmore and Matt Simpson, From ITV, to find out what was involved in delivering the service and what customers feedback, on the trial, was like.
RNIBConnect
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If you’ve ever fancied trying your hand at blind baseball then two events in South Wales this weekend could be a real home run, as Hywel Davies has been finding out.
For more information, visit the Blind Baseball Cymru website - Blind Baseball Cymru – Providers of Blind Baseball in Wales (wordpress.com)
Image: Blind Baseball Cymru logo, a welsh dragon behind two crossed baseball bats.
British Blind Sport are a charity which aims to make activities and leisure as accessible as possible for blind and partially sighted people.
Their Workforce training programme shows providers how to make their facilities accessible and delivers training to help staff support visually impaired customers.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Frankie Rohan, from BBS, and Rob Clark, from Places Leisure, to find out more.
For more information on British Blind Sport, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
For your nearest Places Leisure location, go to www.placesleisure.org
RNIBConnect
Image: British Blind Sport logo. Three words written in capital letters: British (in red) Blind (in Navy) and Sport (in red again). 2 curved lines, one below, one above, give it a rugby ball like shape with the British flag as the pattern.
Have you heard of Action Audio?
A world first, this system is a game-changer for watching live sports like tennis or basketball by improving accessibility of the broadcast for people living with blindness or low vision.
Our Paulina spoke with Tim Devine, Executive Director of Innovation at AKQA, to find out more about Action Audio and their plans for 2024.
Image shows RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background, 'RNIB' written in bold black letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line, also written in black font: 'Connect Radio.'
There’s a whole day of fun and football on the cards as the Royal National College For The Blind in Hereford prepares to host the next round of fixtures in the European Blind Football League. Hywel Davies has been hearing from RNC’s Head Coach Adam Bendall ahead of the upcoming games.
For more information and how to book tickets, visit the RNC website - European Blind Football League Tournament and Festival of Football Tickets, Sat 30 Mar 2024 at 09:00 | Eventbrite
The Change Foundation are giving people in and around Manchester the chance to try VI Rugby this weekend. Hywel Davies has been finding out what it’s like to take to the pitch.
Time to head to the football pitch as our David Hogg catches up with Brighton and Hove Albion’s Jake Heasman.
Menna Fitzpatrick MBE and her Guide Skier Katie Guest got the Para Alpine season off to an excellent start in December with a silver followed by a gold in the St. Moritz Downhill World Cup in Switzerland and have just come back from Spain with even more medals with Bronze medals in both the World Cup Giant Slalom and Super G followed with Gold and Silver in the FIS Super G competitions.
In a break in the Alpine para racing RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Menna to find out what that first competition of the season was like, how she and Katie prepare for their race while other skiers are doing their downhill runs, and how the communication and approach for slalom compare to the downhill racing.
Menna and Katie along with the rest of the GB Para Alpine Team continue to compete on the slopes for the rest of the season and you can find out more about how they get on by visiting the GB SnowSport website - https://gbsnowsport.com
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If the recent performances of the England para football sides have inspired the young people in your life, then the children’s charity VICTA have an upcoming event to help get them started.
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
Our Paulina went along to capture all the action and also had a chance to speak to some very adorable attendees.
Image shows British Blind Sport logo on the left and Scottish Disability Sport logo on the right. Both are atop a white background.
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
One of the activities on offer was tennis.
Image shows a large group of participants playing with audible tennis balls as they learn the techniques of VI tennis. [Image credit: BBS]
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
One of the activities on offer was Goalball.
Find Glasgow Goalball on twitter/X on Facebook, or get in touch via email: glasgowgoalball@outlook.com
Image shows Glasgow Goalball logo. On a navy background a simple lined sketch of a goalball ball with 'GLASGOW GOALBALL' written in two rows to the right of it.
A visually impaired football fan has recently had his match-day experience improved thanks to support received from his local RNIB ECLO (Eye Care Liaison Officer)
Bruce Wilson, who has macular degeneration, feared he may have to give up going to football matches due to his diminishing eye sight. That was until RNIB ECLO Roslyn Munro stepped in and spoke with Ross County on Bruce's behalf.
The club, who were only too happy to help, have now moved Bruce to a more accessible seat within their Global Energy stadium and is even able to take someone along to the match with him thanks to a free carers ticket the club have also provided him with.
Barry Snell spoke to a Bruce and Roslyn to find out more.
Find out more about RNIB ECLO's
{Image: A view of the pitch at the Global Energy stadium, looking out from the corner flag. There is a sign close by telling everyone to 'please keep off the grass'}
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
One of the activities on offer was judo.
Image shows a group of participants learning judo techniques on the mat from a male coach in a gi. [Image credit: BBS]
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
Whilst there we spoke with Nathan and Hilary from Blind Ice Hockey UK about their club and aspirations for 2024.
Image shows Blind Ice Hockey UK logo. A simple stick figure drawn in red and navy ice skating with a hockey stick in hand.
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
Whilst there, we spoke with Lynne Glen Head of Development at Scottish Disability Sport and Ian Isham, Head of Sport Development at British Blind Sport.
Image shows British Blind Sport logo on the left and Scottish Disability Sport logo on the right. Both are atop a white background.
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
One of the activities on offer was Curling.
Image: A female participant trying out curling with fellow participants in the background and a coach to her left hand side. [Image credit: BBS}
On Saturday 27 January, British Blind Sport together with Scottish Disability Sport hosted a 'Have a Go Day' in Glasgow's Emirates Arena.
The event was an opportunity for blind and partially sighted people of all ages to try a sport they have never done before.
Our Paulina was there and spoke with VI Judoka Kirsten Taylor who was there hoping to inspire others into the sport.
Image shows Kirsten competing at World Championships 2022. She is wearing a white judo robe (judogi) with a brown belt. Her hair is sleeked back in a tight bun and she is holding onto the lapels of her opponent and seems to be midway through throwing them onto the mat. Her opponent has a dark navy judogi on with a black belt.
Barry Snell chats to British Blind Sport's participation officer Vicky Cook, to learn more about an upcoming 'Have A Go day' where members of the public are invited to try out various blind sports.
The event is due to take place at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow on Saturday 27th January between 10am - 3pm.
Learn more about British Blind Sport and the service they provide.
{Image shows a bold pink 5-lane running track, white lines divide the lanes as they disappear into the distance with See Sport Differently in black letters below}
The ice based sport of curling is becoming more popular among blind and partially sighted people, with teams being set up around the globe.
In Scotland, Scottish Disability Golf and Curling provide free tuition and an opportunity to play for fun or in competitions.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell went along to an open day to find out why it's so popular.
If you'd like more info, go to www.scottishdgc.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image Shows Scottish Disability Golf & Curling Logo, Blue Background Circle In The Middle with A Curling Stone, Brush And Golf Ball And Golf Club
After an injury at the IBSA World Games this summer, Goalball GB’s Dan Roper is back in the starting line-up and ready for action at December’s European Championships. Hywel Davies heard about his journey back to fitness and hopes for the tournament.
You can watch all of the action from the IBSA Goalball European Championships here - International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) - YouTube
UK sight loss charity RNIB has launched a new Accessible Stadium Guide to help football clubs make their stadiums more accessible for anyone who is blind or partially sighted.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to David McArdle, Director of Equality Diversity and Inclusion for the English Football League.
If you’d like more info on the guide, go to www.rnib.org.uk or call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
RNIBConnect
Image shows a bold pink 5-lane running track, white lines divide the lanes as they disappear into the distance with See Sport Differently in black letters below.
UK sight loss charity RNIB has launched a new Accessible Stadium Guide to help football clubs make their stadiums more accessible for anyone who is blind or partially sighted.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Gareth Davies, From RNIB, to hear more about the work.
If you’d like more info on the guide, go to www.rnib.org.uk or call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
RNIBConnect
Image shows a bold pink 5-lane running track, white lines divide the lanes as they disappear into the distance with See Sport Differently in black letters below.
Running a marathon can be a great way to not just challenge yourself but also boost your confidence.
In 2023, Natassia joined Team RNIB to run in the London Marathon, guided by her brother Max.
She spoke with Happy Hour's Paulina about her experience.
Listen to the Happy Hour Mondays at 1 pm, repeated Thursdays at 6 pm and Sundays at 10 am.
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Step Change Studios held their own strictly-style dance competition in Westminster, where 10 disabled dancers took to the stage with a professional.
Amelia talked to Rashmi Becker MBE to learn more.
Learn more about Step Change Studios by visiting their website www.stepchangestudios.com
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo
If you’re looking for a fun new way to get active in South Wales then Blind Baseball could be the answer. You can even try it for yourself at an upcoming open day in Cardiff, as Hywel Davies has been finding out.
Visit the Channel View Leisure Centre, Jim Driscoll Way, Cardiff CF11 7HB on Tuesday the 14th of November from 11am-1pm.
For more information, you can visit Blind Baseball Cymru on X - twitter.com/b4bcymru - or send an email to blindbaseballcymru@gmail.com
Image: Blind- Baseball Cymru logo of crossed baseball bats behind a Welsh dragon.
2023 has been quite the year for visually impaired tennis star Naqi Rizvi, who is now the World number one blind tennis player.
He’s been sharing his incredible story with RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell
Click here to learn more about visually impaired tennis and other blind sports
{Image shows, A bold pink 5 lane running track, white lines divide the lanes as they disappear into the distance with See Sport Differently in black letters below}
Scottish Disability Golf and Curling is celebrating it’s 20th anniversary.
The organisation helps people with all kinds of disabilities take part in golf and curling, from experienced players to complete beginners.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales to learn more about the charity’s beginnings and its growth.
If you’d like to learn more about SDGC, go to https://www.scottishdgc.org.uk/
RNIBConnect
Image shows Scottish Disability Golf and Curling logo upon a dark navy background.
Rex Blind Party provide audio description at football games throughout Scotland, Barry Snell caught up with their secretary Billy Owen to find out more about the service they provide to blind and partially sighted football fans.
Click here to find out more about Rex Blind Party
Image Shows, A Bold Pink 5 Lane Running Track, White Lines Divide the Lanes as They Disappear into the Distance with See Sport Differently in Black Letters Below
On November 3rd, Sight Loss Councils are running Let’s Get Active in York to help blind and partially sighted people in the area get involved in sport and activities. David Hogg finds out more…
Barry Snell chats to RNIB's Collette Kerr who recently became a VI judo champion after success at the British Open Adaptive and Visually Impaired Judo Championships which were held in Wales..
Collette talks about what inspired to take up the sport and also about it's many physical and mental benefits and also about blind and partially sighted people should give it a try for themselves.
Image Shows, A Bold Pink 5 Lane Running Track, White Lines Divide the Lanes as They Disappear into the Distance with See Sport Differently in Black Letters Below
Barry Snell talks to charity fundraiser Scott Cunningham MBE, who is set to take on his biggest challenge yet the G2E Ultra 56' which is a gruelling 56 mile run from Glasgow to Edinburgh.
The event takes place on the 7th October and Scott, who recently bounced back from a massive heart attack, can't wait for it to start.
If you would like to support Scott, or to find out more, please click on this link
Image: Picture of Scott and his running guide, running through Glasgow in matching black shorts and T-shirts. Their T-shirts have a gold band with numbers attached, as they are both competing
Let’s go to the golf course now for an update from England and Wales Blind Golf. Amelia talked to B2 champion Stuart and his Caddy, guide and brother-in-law John about their love of the sport.
Go to ewblindgolf.co.uk to learn more about EWBG and see their fixture list.
You can also email enquiries.blindgolf@gmail.com
Image: England and Wales Blind Golf logo featuring a red figure in a cap swinging a golf club.
The Scottish Disability Golf and Curling charity is dedicated to providing blind and partially sighted people with the opportunity to try golf, no matter what your experience.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales, From SDGC, to learn more about the game, it’s social side and how you can grow your participation to compete in global competitions.
If you would like to find out more about the organisation, go to https://www.scottishdgc.org.uk/
RNIBConnect
Image Shows The Scottish Disability Golf and Curling Logo
Laura Whittaker had to give up sport when her sight and hearing began to deteriorate.
However, with the help of her local tandem club, she began to love sport and all the benefits of being active with different groups of people.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Laura to find out what she loves about sport and what she loves about her new activity, Triathlon.
If you’d like more info on accessible sport and activities, go to www.seesportdifferently.org.uk
You can also go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk for more details.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows, A Bold Pink 5 Lane Running Track, White Lines Divide the Lanes as They Disappear into the Distance with See Sport Differently in Black Letters Below
Laura Whittaker loved sport but found it difficult to participate in many of her favourites, after being diagnosed with sight and hearing loss.
After joining a tandem cycling club, she then took the leap into the world of Triathlon.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Laura about her sporting passion and why she thinks more blind and partially sighted people should take up a sport.
If you’d like more details on activities for blind and partially sighted people, go to www.seesportdifferently.org.uk
You can also get more help from RNIB by calling their helpline on 03031239999.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows A Bold Pink 5 Lane Running Track, White Lines Divide the Lanes as They Disappear into the Distance with See Sport Differently in Black Letters Below
Blind baseball is a popular sport around the UK. Cardiff will become the latest city to host a Blind Baseball Festival later this month, as Hywel Davies found out.
Image shows Blind Baseball Cymru Logo of the Welsh dragon and a baseball on top of two crossed baseball bats.
Now that the 2023 IBSA World Games have concluded, Martin Wingfield, RNIB’s Head of Brand, speaks to Hywel Davies about the impact of the event.
Paul Ryb (GB Tennis), Monica Smith (GB Tennis), Grace Hobbs (Australia Tennis), Janiece Wallace (Games Volunteer), Armin Cheraghi (Games Volunteer), Darren Harris (Games LOC), Alaina McGregor (British Blind Sport) and Martin Wingfield (Director of Brand, RNIB)
Paul Ryb (GB Tennis), Monica Smith (GB Tennis), Grace Hobbs (Australia Tennis), Janiece Wallace (Games Volunteer), Armin Cheraghi (Games Volunteer), Darren Harris (Games LOC), Alaina McGregor (British Blind Sport) and Martin Wingfield (Director of Brand, RNIB)
The IBSA World Games in Birmingham showcased blind athletes competing in a number of sports including archery.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Hilda Gibson, from Archery GB, to look back at the winners and a new world record.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA World Games 2023 Logo
As the 7th IBSA World Games drew to a close in Birmingham, RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to the Chief Executive of British Blind Sport to reflect on a successful event.
RNIBConnect
Image Show IBSA World Games 2023 Logo
Monica Smith who only took up blind tennis 5 years ago sums up how it feels to have won both a gold and a silver medal in the B1 blind tennis at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 in Birmingham to RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey just after Monica received her medals.
Image shows Monica in second place in the women's B1 singles medal ceremony
Chef de Mission of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 Matt Clayton who is also Chief Executive of Blind Sports Australia tells RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey how the games have gone from his point of view as Chef de Mission and also how the Australian team have fared at the games too.
Image shows Toby interviewing Matt
Finals day on Sunday 27 August 2023 for the Blind Tennis at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 in Birmingham and a Silver medal for Neil Balmford in the Men’s B3 Singles and RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey managed to catch a few words with Neil just after his silver winning match.
Image shows IBSA World Blind Games Birmingham 2023 logo
Although the game of goalball is popular in Germany, there is a need to grow a new generation of players to represent the country in global tournaments.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to the Goalball Women’s Assistant Coach to find out more.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA World Games 2023 Logo
Aurora Zanolin is the Chair of IBSA Goalball and told RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell about the popularity of the game and the standard of play at this year’s IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA World Games 2023 Logo
At the IBSA World Blind Games in Birmingham blind and partially sighted women from England Australia and India came together to compete on the cricket pitch for the first time.
After a week of matches against each other on Saturday 26 August 2023 the final of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 Women’s Blind Cricket final was held at Edgbaston between Australia and India with a win for India. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was pitch side and caught up with Deepika T C captain of the Indian Women’s Team just after the medal ceremony.
Image shows Toby interviewing Deepika T C with her gold medal on the pitch at Edgbaston
Edgbaston, home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club and many test matches came alive on Saturday 26 August 2023 with the IBSA World Blind Games Men’s Cricket final as Pakistan took on India.
Many runs were scored during the match with a win to Pakistan by 8 wickets and RNIB Connect Radios Toby Davey caught up with, Yousaf Haroon, coach of the Pakistan Team during the pitch celebrations.
Image shows the Pakistan team celebrating on the pitch at Edgbaston
The final of the Women’s Blind Cricket at the IBSA World Games 2023 between India and Australia took place on Saturday 26 August 2023 at Edgbaston home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club and host to many test match cricket finals too.
Sadly a defeat for Australia in the first World Blind Women’s Cricket Championships but a great pairing of Cortney Webeck and Courtney Lewis 30 runs and 29 runs respectively with 3 boundaries between them too.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Courtney Lewis just after the Australian Women’s Blind Cricket Team had been awarded their silver medals to find out how the game had gone for her and what it was like playing on the Edgbaston pitch in the first Women’s World Blind Cricket final.
Image shows Toby interviewing Courtney as Edgbaston
Romania’s Dacian Pribeanub, scooped a gold and a silver medal at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham at the inaugural blind chess tournament.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to him after the awards ceremony.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA World Games Logo
Romania’s Dacian Pribeanub, scooped a gold and a silver medal at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham at the inaugural blind chess tournament.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to him after the awards ceremony.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA World Games Logo
The game of blind chess made it’s debut at the 2023 IBSA World Games in Birmingham and RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to the IBSA Chair of Chess, Sorin Lapadatu after the tournaments medals were awarded.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Sorin Lapadatu
The 2023 IBSA World Games were held in Birmingham and, as with all elite athlete events, anti doping officials are in attendance.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to 2 of the officials involved in athlete testing.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Marcello & Juliana
As well as elite athletes competing at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham, there’s also a chance for the public to have a go at some of the sports.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell went along to an archery session but did he score a gold?
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Checking Out His Arrows
Another Gold medal for Argentina at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 as their men’s team win their 3rd gold at Blind Football to add to the one their women’s team won earlier in the games.
It was a close thought match against China as it went down to penalties and RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was there on the pitch as the Argentina Team celebrated and managed to chat with Matias Olivera from the triumphant Argentina men’s blind football team.
Image shows the Argentina men's blind football squad on the pitch in front of the trophy
World Champion GB VI Archer Steve Prowse with his wife Lesley as his Spotter win gold at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023.
RNIB Connect Radios Toby Davey caught up with Steve and Lesley just after they had received their gold medals.
Image shows Steve and Lesley being interviewed by Toby, Steve wearing his gold medal with his right arm in a sling
Another VI Archery gold for Great Britain as blind veteran and wheelchair user Terry Piper wins gold in the Open Archery competition.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey chatted with Terry just after he had been presented with his gold medal.
Image shows Terry wearing his gold medal being interviewed by Toby
Blind and partially sighted Judoka from across the globe met at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to the squad to find out how they got on.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA World Games Logo
It’s not just about spectating at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham, there are plenty of chances to get hands on and try some sports for yourself. Hywel Davies spoke to one family in the Activation Zone.
As the competition hots up on the final day of the power lifting at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 our Toby Davey managed to catch a few words with Carlos Robinson, one of the power Lifting Scorers just before the first round of power lifting got underway.
Image shows Georgian Powerlifter Miriani Ognadze competing in the squat
The blind archery event at this year’s IBSA World Games is nearing a nail biting finish for some of the world’s best and RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell caught up with Nick Thomas who’s battling for 1st place.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Nick Thomas
This year’s IBSA World Games in Birmingham has teams from across the globe competing for medals and Paralympic places.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Kathleen from Norway about her preparation for the archery event.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Interviewing Kathleen, Blind Archer
Steve Prowse and his wife Lesley are into the final stages of the blind archery competition at this year’s IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to them before they took to the field for the final days shooting.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA World Games Logo
Staff from UK sight loss charity RNIB have been volunteering their time at the 2023 IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Malcolm Wai, from RNIB, to find out what sports he’s been along to and what it was like handing over medals.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Malcom Wai
The International Blind Sports Federation is holding it’s 2023 world games in Birmingham.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Val Humphries, from RNIB, who’s part of the volunteer army.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Interviewing Val Humphries
The home crowds have been out in force supporting Team GB at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham. Hywel Davies spoke with some of Team GB Goalball’s biggest fans.
The IBSA Games came to an end for the GB Men’s Goalball team following a defeat to South Korea on Thursday. But there’s still plenty to be positive about, as Hywel Davies found out when he spoke to the team’s Head Coach, Faye Dale.
Image: Head Coach Fay Dale
A large part of the success of the 2023 IBSA World Games can be attributed to the great number of support staff and volunteers present at each event. Hywel Davies has been speaking to one Table Official in Coventry with a personal link to Goalball.
The Coventry Building Society Arena has been the hub of Goalball activity during the IBSA World Games, which is where Hywel Davies spoke to Joe Roper following Team GB’s Joe Roper after their final match of the tournament.
Image: Goalball player Joe Roper.
Laura Brooks, from the England Women’s VI Cricket Team reflects on their first championships competing against Australia and India at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023.
Sadly they lost to India in the final match of the games but good competitive cricket in Birmingham.
Image shows both the Indian and England Women's Blind cricket teams on the pitch
With the finals of the Visually Impaired Cricket of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 taking place at Edgbaston on Saturday 26 August 2023 our Toby Davey popped round to the stadium to chat with Claire Daniel, Operations Director at Warwickshire county Cricket Club to find out how they have been working with IBSA and the ECB to make the finals as accessible for all the blind and partially sighted spectators who will be watching the finals and for other matches at Edgbaston too.
Image shows Edgbaston Stadium
Proud Dad Nick reflects on how his daughter Jess Lowe and the rest of the England VI Cricket Team have been faring during the IBSA World Blind Games in Birmingham.
Our Toby Davey caught up with Nick just after Jess had finished bowling the first over of a very critical match for England as they take on India in their final match of the games.
Image shows IBSA World Blind Games Birmingham 2023
Have you ever wanted to have a go at some of the blind sports that many blind and partially sighted people play and compete in at local, national, international and world levels? Well now is your chance as at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 taking place in Birmingham and the West Midlands through the British Blind Sport Activation Zone you can try your hand at Blind cricket, Blind Tennis, Blind Football, Goalball and Showdown to mention just a few.
Our Toby Davey stepped out on to the Judo mat to have a go at VI Judo. The lesson began with Toby being shown how to fall properly on the mat by Wayne McDonald VI Judo coach before Toby and Wayne had a go at throwing each other around on the Judo mat!
Image shows Toby and Wayne on the Judo mat
Have you ever wanted to have a go at some of the Blind Sports that many blind and partially sighted people play and compete in at local, national, international and world levels? Well now is your chance as at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 taking place in Birmingham and the West Midlands through the British Blind Sport Activation Zone you can try your hand at Blind cricket, Blind Tennis, Blind Football, Goalball and Showdown to mention just a few.
Our Toby Davey decided this time to have a go at Goalball with a lesson from Kathryn Fielding Development Manager from Goalball UK.
Image shows Toby having a go at Goalball
Did you know that blind and partially sighted people can get out for a run, go jogging or even try park runs and marathons?
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Guide Runner Donna Hall to find out more.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Donna Hall, Guide Runner
Karen Dale wants to make archery more accessible at her club, and beyond, for blind and partially sighted people.
She told RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell why coming to the IBSA World Games in Birmingham has been a great help for information gathering.
RNIBConnect
Image Show RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Karen Dale
Uganda are aiming for gold at this year’s IBSA Blind Games in Birmingham and RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Head Coach Catherine to find out more about the game in the country.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Catherine the Uganda Coach
Hilda Gibson is co-ordinating the 2023 IBSA World Games Archery Tournament and told RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell about the set up for the athletes.
RNIBConnect
Image Show RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Hilda
Pippa Britton OBE is a former Paralympian and now works with governing bodies to make the sport of archery more inclusive.
She spoke to RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell about the sport while they were at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell chatting With Pippa
Have you ever wanted to have a go at some of the blind sports that many blind and partially sighted people play and compete in at local, national, international and world levels? Well now is your chance as at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 taking place in Birmingham and the West Midlands through the British Blind Sport Activation Zone you can try your hand at Blind Cricket, Blind Tennis, Blind Football, Goalball and Showdown to mention just a few.
Our Toby Davey decided this time to have a go at Blind Football and he even managed to just about score a goal!
Image shows Toby having a go at Blind Football
More from the VI Tennis courts at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 in Birmingham as our Toby chats with Neil Balmford GB VI Tennis player about how he took up playing tennis again after starting to lose his sight.
Image shows Toby interviewing Neil
Monika Smith is one of the GB VI Tennis Players taking part in the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 in Birmingham, a member of Metro Blind Sport who has regular coaching from Harlow Tennis Club too.
Our Toby Davey grabbed a few words with Monika just before her first match of the games and began by asking her how she first got into VI Tennis.
Image shows Toby interviewing Monika
With competition hotting up for all the VI Tennis players at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 our Toby managed to grab a few minutes with Louise Assioun GB VI Tennis Head Coach to find out a bit more about her role as head coach at the games and how she feels the GB VI Tennis players might fare during the games.
Image shows Toby interviewing Louise
As players from many nations take to the courts for the Visually Impaired Tennis at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 in Birmingham our Toby caught up with Sophie Hall, Disability Competitions Manager at the Lawn Tennis Association to find out a bit more about VI Tennis and the competition which will be taking place over the next few days leading up to the final matches on Sunday 27 August 2023.
Image shows Monika Smith serving during the B1 VI Tennis
Ever wondered what the sight classifications of B1, B2 and B3 mean within blind and partially sighted Sport?
Joy Myint, one of the Classifiers at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 explains what they all mean and her role at the games to our Toby Davey.
Image shows IBSA World Blind Games Birmingham 2023 logo
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Chris Whittaker from Sport England about improving access to sport for people with disabilities.
They caught up at the recent IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
RNIBConnect
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The game of Showdown is on the rise in the UK and Hywel Davies has been speaking to Jack Peters from Showdown UK between matches at the IBSA World Games to find out more about the sport.
To learn more about Showdown visit - Showdown | British Blind Sport
Image: Jack standing at the table with the ball in his left and and glove and paddle in his right.
Ilgar Rahimov is the new IBSA President and told RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell how he intends to grow sports in the competition and help more blind and partially sighted people into sport.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA Logo
There’s so much to explore at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham and away from the competition itself, Hywel Davies spoke to blind social media star Toby Addison about what’s on offer at the Activation Zone.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Allan March, from Allan March Sport LTD, to find out how audio description for live sporting events is growing around the globe.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA Logo
Despite picking up a serious leg injury at a recent world tournament, Dan Powell was at the IBSA World Games to cheer on his team GB judo squad members.
He told RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell why the sport is great for blind and partially sighted people.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows IBSA Logo
Extra time was needed to separate the sides in a frantic final at the men’s Partially sighted football. The final score Ukraine 4 England 3. Hywel Davies caught up with England Captain John McDougall after the game.
Image: Captains John McDougall (England) and Robert Tremba (Ukraine) shake hands before the final.
If you have ever wanted to have a go at some of the Blind Sports that many blind and partially sighted people play and compete in at local, national, international and world levels? Well now is your chance as at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 taking place in Birmingham and the West Midlands through the British Blind Sport Activation Zone you can try your hand at Blind cricket, Blind Tennis, Blind Football, Goalball and Showdown to mention just a few.
Our Toby Davey decided this time to have a go at visually impaired tennis and maybe he was better at serving than keeping a rally going!
Image shows IBSA World Games Birmingham 2023 logo
The charity British Blind Sport are hosting some fantastic sports for you to try if your blind or partially sighted.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Ian Isham, from British Blind Sport, to find out what’s in store at the IBSA World Games venue at the University of Birmingham.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell with Ian Isham at the University of Birmingham IBSA Activation Zone
Tony Clark is the Chairman of British Blind Sport Tenpin and he’s also competing for Team GB at this year’s IBSA World Games, where Hywel Davies asked him about the sport in the UK.
For more information on Tenpin Bowling, visit the British Blind Sport website - Bowling | British Blind Sport
Image: Tony Clark about to release the ball at lane number 4 of the Hollywood Bowl in Birmingham.
As the Blind Archers start their practice session at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 ready to compete later in the games our Toby Davey caught up with blind veteran and wheelchair user Terry Piper who is competing as a B4 archer in the open competition at the games.
Terry talks about the compound bow that he uses and how he is able with the level of sight he has to use a scope on the sight to line his bow up with the target and how his son helps him as his spotter too.
Image shows IBSA World Games Birmingham 2023 logo
As the Blind Archers start their practice session at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 ready to compete later in the Games our Toby Davey catches up with current Blind Archery World Champion Steve Prowse and his wife Lesley who is also his Spotter.
Steve began by telling toby how he got into Archery, how he and Lesley work as a team in the competition and how he thinks he might fare during the competition.
Image shows Steve in a team GB shirt firing an arrow with Lesley spotting behind him
Among the familiar sports of blind football, goalball and archery at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham, you’ll also find some sports you might not be so familiar with. Hywel Davies has been speaking with Natalie Shaw from Team GB’s Tenpin Bowling Team.
For more information on tenpin bowling in the UK visit the British Blind Sport website - Bowling | British Blind Sport
Image: Pins being knocked down at the bowling competition in Birmingham.
Eddie Halstead is a power lifting Referee for this years games in Birmingham and explained some of the rules to RNIB's Allan Russell
RNIBConnect
Image Show IBSA World Game Logo
RNIB Connect Radio Allan Russell, Spoke to the head coach of the Ukrainian Power Lifting Coach ahead of the years IBSA Games
Image show IBSA World Games Logo
In front of a raucous home crowd, the England Men’s partially sighted football side advanced to the final of the competition following a hard-fought victory against Japan. Hywel Davies caught up with player Jacob Heasman moments after the final whistle had blown in Walsall.
Image: Footballer Jacob Heasman passing the ball with his right foot during the match against Japan.
The England Men’s Partially Sighted football side have made it to the final of the competition at this year’s IBSA World Games. Hywel Davies spoke with team manager Steve Daley after the side’s penalty-shootout victory over Japan.
Image: Captains John Mc Dougall (England) and Rika Suzuki (Japan) stand alongside match officials before kick off.
RNIB Chief Executive Matt Stringer has a go at Blind Football at the IBSA World Blind Games in Birmingham and manages to score a goal!
Matt reflects on his day at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 in Birmingham, what it means for the RNIB being the lead sponsor and why the games are a great opportunity to shine a light on participation in sport for blind and partially sighted people.
Image shows IBSA logo
The first final of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 was won on Tuesday evening (21 August 2023) with Argentina winning the Women’s Blind Football Championships with a very close thought game against Japan.
Our Toby Davey joined in the celebrations on the pitch grabbing a few words with Santiago Jugo, Coach of the Argentinian Team.
Image shows Argentina striker Yohana Aguilar taking the winning penalty
Ian Johns British Judoka Paralympic Head Coach tells RNIB's Connect Radio Allan Russell how the GB Blind Judo Squad train for the IBSA World Games
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Ian Johns British Judoka Paralympic Head Coach
Kirsten Taylor told RNIB's Connect Radio Allan Russell about her hopes of qualifying for the 2024 Paris Paralympics and why blind and partially sighted people should take up the sport.
RNIBConnect
Image Show RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Kirsten Taylor
The Team GB Judo Squad are competing in Birmingham, at the IBSA World Games, to Boost their chances of qualifying for 2024 Paralympics in Paris, RNIB's Allan Russell spoke to Tim Ellis.
RNIBConnect Radio
Image show Team GB Judoka
Chris Skelly, is the current Paralympic Champion In Judo and Told RNIB's Allan Russell about his training for the IBSA World Games
RNIBConnect
Image Show Allan & Chris Chatting at Training Session
If you have ever wanted to have a go at some of the Blind Sports that many blind and partially sighted people play and compete in at local, national, international and world levels? Well now is your chance as at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 taking place in Birmingham and the West Midlands through the British Blind Sport Activation Zone you can try your hand at Blind cricket, Blind Tennis, Blind Football, Goalball and Showdown to mention just a few.
Our Toby Davey decided to have a go at Blind Cricket both bowling and batting with some success as he did manage to hit the ball once or twice with the bat!
Image shows IBSA World Games Birmingham 2023 logo
At the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 Women’s Blind Cricket teams from England, Australia and India competed against each other for the first time in an international competition and the first for the IBSA Games too.
Our Toby Davey caught up with Kathryn Jelfs-White, England Women’s Blind Cricket Captain who plays for Somerset VICC and their Coach Jan Godman just before their second match of the games against India.
Image shows Toby interviewing Kathryn and Jan at on the Tally Ho pitch
If you’ve watched any coverage of the blind or partially sighted football matches at this year’s IBSA World games then the voice of Jason Swaine will be very familiar. Hywel Davies caught up with the former basketball player turned commentator in Wolverhampton.
The IBSA World Blind Games Goalball competition got underway on Sunday August 20th. Hywel Davies spoke to Australian player Raissa Martin and team manager Simon Smith following their encounter with Team GB.
Team GB Women’s Goalball Manager Aaron Ford spoke to Hywel Davies about the side’s victory over Australia and the impact he hopes the IBSA Games can have on the sport in the UK.
The GB Women’s Goalball team got off to a winning start at the IBSA World Games, with a victory over Australia. Hywel Davies was on hand to speak to Georgie Bullen after the game.
Australian Men’s Blind Cricket player Ishlal Ahmed reflects on the very close first cricket match of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 at King Edward’s School, Birmingham between England and Australia with triumph for England.
Image shows Toby interviewing Ishlal
Australian Men’s Blind Cricket player Shaun Fitzpatrick reflects on a very close first cricket match of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 at King Edward’s School, Birmingham between England and Australia a very close match with triumph for England.
Image shows Toby and Sean both smiling towards the camera
Triumph for the England Men’s Blind Cricket Team at the IBSA World Games 2023 in Birmingham at King Edward’s School as Sam Hoskin scores the final run beating Australia in England’s first match of the games and Sam’s first cap for England too.
Image shows Toby interviewing Sam in front of the cricket club house at King Edward's School
Ever wondered what the difference is between sighted and blind Cricket? Well don’t worry as former England Cricketer Justin Hollingsworth explains all to our Toby Davey pitch side at the England v Australia match at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023.
Image shows Toby interviewing Justin on the cricket field
Pitch side at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 England v Australia Cricket match as Neil Fachie OBE and Laura Fachie watch their brother Mark play for England.
Neil and Laura began by telling our Toby Davey about their successes in the Para Cycling at the UCI World Cycling Championships held in Glasgow 3 - 13 August 2023.
Image shows Toby interviewing Neil and Laura
Blind and partially sighted football is a major part of this year’s IBSA Games in Birmingham.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Phillipa Bass, from British Blind Sport, who’s managing the football side of things…
RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell with Phillipa Bass BBS, Standing Outside the Football Players Changing Rooms
The IBSA Games in Birmingham has many volunteers, all trained to provide assistance to all the athletes and visitors.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to passionate volunteer Janet.
RNIBConnect
Image Shows Janet, IBSA Volunteer
Sandro Di Girolamo is the IBSA Italian Federation President, and along with his interpreter Pedro, told Allan Russell what they were looking forward to watching at this year’s IBSA World Games
Image Shows Allan Russell Chatting With IBSA Italian Federation President & Pedro his Interpreter
Alaina MacGregor is the CEO of British Blind Sport and told Allan Russell about the preparation for the games, the opening ceremony and the importance of making sport and leisure accessible for all blind and partially sighted people
Image shows Allan Chatting With Alaina MacGregor is the CEO of British Blind Sport
More from the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 in Birmingham as our Toby Davey is pitch side at the Men’s Blind Football chatting with Adam Bendall Head Coach for the England Men’s Blind Football Team and player Roy Turnham just after the England China match which sadly did not go England’s way.
Image shows Toby interviewing Adam and Roy
Former blind footballer Darren Harris told Allan Russell about his involvement in this year’s IBSA Games and his hopes for the future of blind football in the UK
The England Men’s Partially Sighted football side secured their place in the knockout stages of the IBSA World Games with a win over Italy on Saturday August 19th. Hywel Davies caught up with player Adam Lione after the game.
Image: The England Partially Sighted football side celebrate at the final whistle of the match against Italy.
The England Men’s VI football side secured their place in the knockout stages of the IBSA World Games with a 3-0 win over Italy on Saturday August 19th. Hywel Davies spoke with manager Steve Daley after the game.
Image: England's John McDougall and Italy's Vincenzo Comito line-up with officials before the match begins.
The IBSA World Games have launched in Birmingham and the competitions are already underway.
Allan Russell spoke to Alaina MacGregor, CEO of British Blind Sport about the launch, the games and the drive to get more blind and partially sighted people into sport and leisure activities
Image Shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with Alaina MacGregor, CEO of British Blind Sport
Tom Lister, Coach of the England Men’s Blind Cricket Team chats with our Toby Davey about how he feels the Team will do at the IBSA World Blind Games 2023. Not only is this the first time that Blind Cricket has featured in the IBSA World Blind Games but also the first time the competing countries have played against each other since the Covid pandemic.
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo
25 international players are competing at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham, Allan Russell learned more about playing the game from tournament’s senior referee.
Image Shows Allan Chatting with Michail Keramiotis IBSA Chess Referee
Blind players can excel at the game of chess and Allan Russell spoke to one of the best players in the world at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
Image show RNIB's Connect Radio hatting with Mihall Dacian Pribeanub Blind Romanian Chess Player
As lead sponsor of this year’s IBSA World Games in Birmingham, RNIB’s Martin Wingfield was one of the speakers at the opening ceremony, he spoke to Allan Russell about why the charity was keen to get involved in the global event
Image shows Allan Speaking with Martin Wingfield RNIB's Head of Brand
Chess is making it’s first appearance at the IBSA World Games in Birmingham, and Allan Russell spoke to the Chairman of IBSA Chess to learn more about the games global appeal for blind players
Image Shows Allan Chatting with Sorin Lapadatu IBSA Chess Chairman
The IBSA World Games had it’s opening ceremony at the Symphony Hall and Allan Russell was there and spoke to Birmingham Councillor Andy Street.
Image Shows RNIB's Connect Radio Allan Russell Chatting with Andy Street
Symphony Hall in Birmingham was the venue for the opening ceremony for the IBSA World Games,
Where Allan Russell spoke to David Clarke, Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association.
Image shows RNIB's Allan Russell Chatting with David Clarke, Chief Executive of the British Paralympic
For the opening ceremony of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 at the Birmingham Symphony Hall DJ Hurricane was there warming up the crowds prior to all the speeches, dance performances and live music. Our Toby Davey caught up with DJ Hurricane after his second set to find out how he got into DJing and how accessible it is for someone who is blind or partially sighted.
Image shows Toby Interviewing DJ Hurricaine and partner Olivia
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey chats with Elias Mastoras IBSA Blind Football Chair Person about his background in blind football, his role as IBSA Blind Football Chairman plus how blind football and especially the women’s blind football has been developing over the years.
Also a look forward to blind football at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and the great football which you can still catch here at the IBSA World Blind Games in Birmingham.
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo
Dixie Dee is one of the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 commentators who has been providing the live commentary of the blind football matches of the games on the IBSA YouTube channel and tells our Toby Davey how he got into commentating plus a bit about his connections with blind football at the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford.
Image shows a smiling Dixie and Toby
A quick chat with Santiago Jugo, coach of the Argentina Women’s Blind Football Team just after they drew nil - nil with Austria guaranteeing them a place in the semi finals on Sunday.
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo
More from the IBSA World Blind Games 2023 as RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey chats with Elizabeth Wong one of the sighted volunteers who is looking after the Blind Football matches.
Elizabeth was a Volunteer at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham last year and this is her first time volunteering at a blind games although Elizabeth has had some contact working with blind children as a teacher in the past.
Elizabeth will also be one of the flag bearers at the opening ceremony at Symphony Hall in Birmingham too.
Image: France and Colombia Men's Blind Football teams mid game
The IBSA World Games are underway in Birmingham until the 27th Aug 2023.
Allan & Toby, met up at the football ground for a look ahead.
RNIBConnect
Image shows The German Blind Footballers Practising
GB Goalball star Caleb Nanevie looks ahead to the IBSA World Games 2023.
It's the first time the event has been held in the UK and Caleb will be cheered on by many of his own family members for the very first time.
He's been talking to RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell
For more information on the IBSA World Games 2023 visit
www.ibsagames2023.co.uk
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo.
With the IBSA World Games 2023 coming to Birmingham, we’ve been talking to some of the athletes taking part.
Amelia talked to 2021 Judo Gold Medallist, Chris Skelley MBE, before he fights it out on the mat.
For more information about the IBSA World Games visit International Blind Sport Federation (IBSA) World Games – 14th – 27th August 2023 (ibsagames2023.co.uk)
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo.
Thinking about starting a Goalball club?
Amelia talked to Alex Bunney from Goalball UK about how they can support you and why they’re excited for the IBSA games.
Learn more by visiting the Goalball UK website https://goalballuk.com/
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo.
This summer over 1,250 blind and partially sighted athletes from 70 countries are competing in 10 sports at the IBSA World Games in Burmingham. Our David Hogg caught up with one of them, VI Judoka Evan Molloy.
Let’s look ahead at the IBSA World Games taking place later this month.
Our Paulina finds out a bit more about the game of goalball from Goalball Competition Manager Dina Murdie, who has 35 years of coaching and officiating experience with goalball and will overseee the smooth running of the competition at this year's event.
For more information about the IBSA World Games visit: International Blind Sport Federation (IBSA) World Games – 14th – 27th August 2023 (ibsagames2023.co.uk)
Image: RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo.
GB Archery star Clive Jones looks ahead to the IBSA World Games 2023.
With athletes from around the globe coming to Birmingham the event is sure to be spectacular.
Despite the tough competition though Clive is hoping for a podium finish.
He's been talking to RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell
For more information on the IBSA World Games 2023 visit
www.ibsagames2023.co.uk
SeeSportDifferently
Before the IBSA World Games get underway in Birmingham in just a few days time, Hywel Davies has been finding out more about what we can expect from the event.
For more information on the 2023 IBSA World Games in Birmingham, visit www.ibsagames2023.co.uk
In preparation for the IBSA World Games 2023, we've been catching up with some of the athletes taking part. In this episode, Hubert catches up with England Women's Blind Football player Ayman Hafiz.
The game of VI Rugby continues to grow in South Wales. Hywel Davies has been speaking to one of the game’s newest players.
For more information on the Ospreys VI Rugby Side, visit their website:
Ospreys Visually Impaired (VI) Rugby | Ospreys (ospreysrugby.com)
Image description: Image shows Mona at the outdoor training session, wearing a pink RNIB t-shirt, about to catch a yellow rugby ball.
The World Triathlon Para Series is heading back to Swansea this weekend. Hywel Davies finds out how you can get involved.
You can find more information on the British Triathlon website - 2023 World Triathlon Para Series Swansea – British Triathlon
Time for a Summer update with England and Wales Blind Golf (EWBG).
Amelia talked to sighted guide, volunteer co-ordinator and organiser Di Daniels about their recent Strokeplay championships and heard the amazing story of B1 Spanish Open Champion, Billy McAllister, who found hope and community through blind golf after losing his sight overnight.
Go to ewblindgolf.co.uk to learn more about EWBG and see their fixture list.
You can also email enquiries.blindgolf@gmail.com
Image Description: England and Wales Blind Golf logo featuring a red figure in a cap swinging a golf club.
The ‘See Sport Differently’ campaign is all about getting more blind and partially sighted people involved in sport and exercise. Hywel speaks to British Blind Sport’s Ian Isham about the impact of the campaign so far.
You can find more information at See Sport Differently I RNIB | RNIB
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
Each week we chat with RNIB’s CEO Matt Stringer to discuss the big news affecting the charity.
This week’s update was recorded during the RNIB Scotland, inclusive Design for Sustainability conference held at the Glasgow Science Centre 21 / 22 June 2023.
Matt began his update by reflecting on the first day of the conference, mentioning some of the conference Key Speaker presentations, how technology has evolved to help to change the lives of many blind and partially sighted people and what more the RNIB could be doing around technology.
During the conference a reception was held at Glasgow City Council’s civic chambers to celebrate RNIB Connect Radio’s 20th Birthday and Matt talked about how thee RNIB will be looking to support the great work of the radio station for the next 20 years.
If you have any questions at all relating to sight loss or just looking for help and advice, please do call the RNIB helpline on 0303 123 9999 or use your Amazon device and ask Lady A to call the RNIB and speak to one of our Sight Loss Advisors or do visit the RNIB website where you will find a wealth of information and advice too-
https://www.rnib.org.uk
Image Shows RNIB’s CEO Matt Stringer, Matt's Wearing A Blue Shirt & Jacket, with a Leafy Green Background
Keen cyclists, Beth and Cheryl are hoping to make a difference this summer as they prepare to cycle the length of UK, so a journey of over 1,000 miles, all in support of their local Tandem cycling club.
Beth and Cheryl are in the middle of preparations for their trip, but they managed to make some time in their busy schedule to catch up with our Paulina Kuchorew.
You can support their ride here: Crowdfunding to provide funds for Glasgow Tandem Club on JustGiving
Image shows Beth and Cheryl on a blue tandem, smiling as they cycle with some lovely country views behind them.
British Blind Sport run Have A Go Day taster sessions across many locations, giving blind and partially sighted people the chance to try different activities, with opportunities to take them up on a more regular basis.
There’s also going to be a, similar, Activation Zone at August’s IBSA World Games in Birmingham.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Ian Isham and Victoria Cook to find out more about the free sessions.
If you’d like more info on accessible sports, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
For more details on the World Games in Birmingham, go to www.ibsagames2023.co.uk
RNIBConnect
Image Shows A Eye Shape Logo, Using the Union Flag Colours and Design of Red, White and Blue, with British Blind Sport Running Through the Centre of the Eye, Side to Side, British Blind Sport is in Bold Capital Letters, British is Red in Colour, Blind is Blue, Sport Being Red.
Blind and partially sighted tennis is, globally, one of the fastest growing sports for people with a sight loss condition.
It’s growth has now reached world tournaments, including the IBSA World Games which is coming to Birmingham in August 2023.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Frankie Rohan, a blind tennis coach, to learn more about the sport.
If you’d like more info on accessible sports, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
For more details on the World Games in Birmingham, go to www.ibsagames2023.co.uk
RNIBConnect
Image shows
RNIB logo, A top a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down, they take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
The ‘See Sport Differently’ campaign is all about getting more blind and partially sighted people involved in sport and exercise. Hywel speaks to See Sport Differently Champion Cyreeta Donaldson about getting back into exercise after becoming a mum.
You can find more information at See Sport Differently I RNIB | RNIB
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
The ‘See Sport Differently’ campaign is all about getting more blind and partially sighted people involved in sport and exercise. Now, we find out more about how Patricia McKnight's life was changed when she walked into her local leisure centre.
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
The ‘See Sport Differently’ campaign is all about getting more blind and partially sighted people involved in sport and exercise. Hywel speaks to Megan Price, who after a difficult start with sport, found her place in Goalball.
You can find more information at See Sport Differently I RNIB | RNIB
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
The ‘See Sport Differently’ campaign is all about getting more blind and partially sighted people involved in sport and exercise. Ken Reid talks about tandem cycling, swimming and setting achievable goals.
You can find more information at See Sport Differently I RNIB | RNIB
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
Barry Snell chats to Gordon Harries about his love of bowling, sight loss and the benefits of getting involved in sport and exercise
Take the See Sport Differently quiz at SeeSportDifferently.org.uk/Quiz
Image shows RNIB logo, A top a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, they take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
Barry Snell chats to Paul Russell about his love of Sport and the various blind sports he has been involved with. Paul also discusses some of the difficult challenges he has faced because of his sight loss.
Take the See Sport Differently quiz at SeeSportDifferently.org.uk/Quiz
Image shows RNIB logo, A top a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, they take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
In Metro Blind Sport’s 50th anniversary golden year at Mile End Stadium in East London over the weekend of Saturday 24th June and Sunday 25th June they will be holding their 45th free Athletics Open and Fun Day.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Gareth Dawson from Metro Blind Sport to find out more about this free fun-filled family sporty day out for everyone.
Gareth began by telling Toby a bit about the history of Metro Blind Sport and the Athletics Open and Fun Day before going into a bit more detail about what will be on offer for blind and partially sighted people on both the athletics day on the Saturday and the fun day on the Sunday.
The deadline for completed entries for the Metro Blind Sport’s Athletics Open and Fun Day 2023 is Wednesday 31 May 2023 and more details along with entry forms can be obtained by emailing info@metroblindsport.org or by searching for Metro Blind Sport on Twitter.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
Scottish Disability Golf and Curling gives people, with a range of disabilities, the opportunity to get professional coaching and golf sessions, even if they’ve never held a club before.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales, from SDGC, to find out more.
If you’d like more info, go to www.scottishdgc.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image shows RNIB logo, A top a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, they take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
See Sport Differently is RNIB's new initiative to get more people with sight loss feeling the benefits of sport and exercise, with that in mind, our David Hogg chats to Yaya Pandor about his love of Brazilian Ju-Jitsu and how sport has benefited him.
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
Now David Hogg speaks to RNIB See Sport Differently Champion George Sullivan about his sporting achievements and ways to get involved in sports when you have sight loss.
To take part in the See Sport Differently quiz at SeeSportDifferently.org.uk/Quiz
Image shows RNIB logo, A top a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, they take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
David Hogg chats to RNIB See Sport Differently Champion Alessio Verrecchia about his sight loss and sporting achievements
Whoever you are, there’s an activity for you – and that’s a big part of the message we’re trying to spread. Getting active isn’t about being the best. It’s about moving more, meeting people, and having fun.
Take the See Sport Differently quiz at SeeSportDifferently.org.uk/Quiz
Image shows RNIB logo, A top a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, they take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
The ‘See Sport Differently’ campaign is all about getting more blind and partially sighted people involved in sport and exercise. Now, we find out more about the impact that sport has made to one man.
You can find more information at See Sport Differently I RNIB | RNIB
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
There’s a new campaign designed to get blind and partially sighted people to be more active. Hywel Davies speaks to RNIB's Gareth Davies to hear more about ‘See Sport Differently’.
You can find more information at See Sport Differently I RNIB | RNIB
Image shows a logo. Atop a white background 5 stripes run at an angle narrowing down towards the upper right corner, thy take the shape of a running track. Beneath: 'See Sport Differently' written in black.
Looking back at an exciting weekend of football, once again it's our Allan Russell and Paralympian and Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association, Dave Clarke.
Listen out for another catch up with Dave next Monday on the Daily Connect from 9 AM and the Afternoon Edition from 3 PM.
Image is a headshot of Dave smiling at the camera.
August 2023 will se almost 70 countries send their blind and partially sighted athletes to Birmingham, UK, to compete in the IBSA World Games.
The global event includes qualifiers for some of the sports you’ll see as part of the Paralympics.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Alaina MacGregor, from British Blind Sport, and Matthew Clayton, from Blind Sports Australia, to discuss the event.
If you’d like more info about the games, go to www.ibsagames2023.co.uk
RNIBConnect
Image International Blind Sports Federation Logo, IBSA in Bold Green Letters with Smaller Letters Below Reading, International Blind Sports Federation
There is a famous phrase or saying that goes along the lines of ‘everyone has a book inside them’ which might be true but what about the challenges of not only writing your first book but self publishing it too.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Helen McCann a Guide Dog Owner from Somerset who has not only written her first book ‘Running Blind’ but is also self publishing the book too.
Helen’s marathon running story starts in 2016 when Helen was challenged to run the Bath Half Marathon and the London Marathon 2017. At the time Helen was 59 years old, a non runner and a sucker for a challenge, so Helen decided she was going to do both events with a guide runner.
It was during Helen’s preparation for both events running out on the roads and in the gym that many people suggested that she should write a book about not just her marathon journey but also her personal life story too and how she had overcome disabilities to live a full and active life.
Helen tells Toby about her training for the two marathon running events, what it was like waiting in the holding pens before the start gun and finding her pace with her Guide Runner.
To then giving a bit of insight into some of her personal life that readers will find in ‘Running Blind’ before talking about how Helen found the self publishing process as a visually impaired person.
‘Running Blind’ will be published by Helen towards the end of May in standard and large print with the hope that an audio book version will also be available soon.
You can find out more about how to order your copy of ‘Running Blind’ by Helen McCann by either emailing runningblindhelenmccann@gmail.com or if you are on Facebook just search for Running Blind Helen McCann to find Helen’s Facebook page.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
England and Wales Blind Golf took a visit to South Africa for the long-awaited World Championships and South African Open.
Amelia got and update from Secretary and B2 World Champion Andy Gilford, and heard from 86-year-old golfer Danny and his wife and sighted guide Di about what the sport means to them.
Go to ewblindgolf.co.uk to learn more about Blind Golf.
Image Description: England and Wales Blind Golf logo featuring a red figure in a cap swinging a golf club.
The countdown is well underway for a great summer of para sports. Hywel Davies caught up with Adam Lione from the England Partially Sighted Football side, to hear about their latest training camp.
Image: Adam kicking the ball while taking part in a football training session.
Ramblers GB encourages us to get out and about to improve our physical and mental health.
As well as showing us great walks, for all abilities, their volunteers maintain and look after a great many routes for us to enjoy.
The association has just unveiled it’s new President who’s dedicated to growing our interest in getting out and about.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Tom Platt, from The Ramblers, and their new President.
For more info on the organisation, go to www.ramblers.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: Amar Latif, Ramblers New President
Saturday April 8th will see the latest round of matches for the European Blind Football League come to Hereford.
The Royal National College for the Blind will not only host the matches, their own team will be taking part.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Coach Adam Bendall and 1 of their players, Kieran Clarke, to find out more…
You can watch the matches, with audio described commentary, by going to www.rnc.ac.uk
Or via their Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/RNCHereford
RNIBConnect
Image: The Royal National College for the Blind, Blind Football Team
Ahead of the World Blind Games in Birmingham this summer, we’re getting to know some of the athletes taking part. Hywel Davies has been speaking to Archer Clive Jones.
You can find out more about finding a sport that’s right for you by visiting the British Blind Sport activity finder – www.britishblindsport.org.uk/see-sport-differently
Step Change Studios is an award-winning dance company which provides classes for all abilities and ages.
Amelia talked to Step Change Studio founder, Dr Rashmi Becker MBE, about how the company began, their upcoming free Bollywood and Latin dance classes for blind and partially sighted students and how they're making dance more inclusive by providing training for fitness and dance professionals.
You can learn more about the classes, workshops and future events from Step Change Studios by going to their website stepchangestudios.com
If you know a young person who’s looking for a new challenge, VI Rugby might be the answer, as Hywel Davies finds out.
To find out more information about the Dragons VI Rugby sessions, contact Inclusion Officer Karen Burgess via email at karen.burgess@dragonsrugby.wales
British Blind Sport has launched new training sessions to help organisations from across the private, public and 3rd sectors, make their sport and leisure activities accessible and inclusive for blind and partially sighted people of all ages.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Frankie, from BBS, to find out more.
You can get more info on the training and the work of BBS by visiting www.britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: British Blind Sport logo
Are you looking to get out and about? With more on how you can keep active in the Glasgow area, here's David Hogg.
Every year, thousands of people take part in the Kiltwalk to raise money for their chosen charity.
David Hogg spoke with this year's RNIB Kiltwalk Ambassador Shona Black about her preparations for the event and how you can get involved.
The International Blind Sport Federation, IBSA, will showcase some of the best blind and partially sighted athletes in it’s world games, when it comes to Birmingham in August 2023.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to John Timms, Event Director, to find out how plans are progressing for the global event.
If you’d like more info on the games, go to www.ibsagames2023.co.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: The International Blind Sport Federation
British Blind Sport is taking bookings for it’s annual swimming gala and there’s something for non swimmers and those who want to take things to a more professional level.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Ian Isham, from BBS, to find out more about the day and how to register.
You can get more from www.britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: British Blind Sport logo
Visually impaired skier Menna Fitzpatrick became Britain’s most decorated Paralympic skier after winning a silver and bronze medal at the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympic Games with her guide skier Gary Smith.
Menna and her guide skier Katie Guest have just come back from the 2023 Para Alpine World Championships in Spain with a silver in the Giant Slalom and a bronze in the Slalom to add to Menna’s growing medal tally.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Menna to find out more about how she and Katie got on at the 2023 Para Alpine Worlds.
Menna began by giving Toby a run down on how the conditions were on the slopes out in Spain, what the competition was like and how close the skiing was.
Then Menna explained to Toby how she and Katie work together when skiing, how menna has to rely more on the radio coms between her and Katie when the conditions on the slopes are not so good for the level of vision she has especially when it is very sunny and there are very light and very dark patches on the slopes.
Toby ended by asking Menna whether she and Katie have their sights on competing in the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games in Italy and how she and the rest of the team relax when they are not training or competing.
If you would like to find out more about how to get into skiing and take your first steps out on the slopes as a blind or partially sighted person, then do visit the Disability Snow Sport UK website for more details on how to start skiing - https://www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk
(Image shows Menna competing in a slalom race in her GB kit and turning tightly past a blue flag. In the foreground and out of focus is her guide skier Katie can be seen skiing and wearing a hi-vis orange jacket)
A unique event in Cardiff brought together blind and partially sighted children to learn more about VI rugby and to prove that when it comes to sport, there’s a jersey for everyone.
You can find out more about Cardiff VI Rugby including details on how to join their training sessions by following them on Twitter - @CardiffVIRugby or by emailing Evan Vaughan-Lewis, evan.vaughan-lewis@cardiffrugby.wales
England and Wales Blind Golf are helping players and sighted guides to get active, form friendships and get into the swing of the game.
Amelia talked to the charity’s secretary Andy and sighted guide Geoff for more…
Go to ewblindgolf.co.uk to learn more
Image Description: England and Wales Blind Golf logo featuring a red figure in a cap swinging a golf club.
After getting serious about outdoor swimming during the lockdown in 2020, one RNIB volunteer swam the English Channel as part of a relay team. He tells Hywel Davies that he didn't let his sight loss slow him down.
England and Wales Blind Golf (EWBG) are hosting open days so blind and partially sighted people can get active and connect with others through the sport.
Amelia talked to EWBG Secretary Andy Gilford, Trafford Golf Centre Manager Pete Styles and John Biesse from Timebanking UK about the success of the last open day and how people can get involved…
The next open day is on Tuesday the 31st January at the Warwickshire in the Midlands,
Visit www.ewblindgolf.co.uk to learn more about EWBG and the upcoming Open Day.
Visit www.timebanking.org to learn more about Timebanking UK.
Visit www.traffordgolfcentre.co.uk to learn more about Trafford Golf Centre.
Image: Golfers teeing up and swinging golf clubs, some with sighted helpers aiding them to position clubs in a row of driving range bays.
Former international blind footballer and Chief Operations Officer for UK sight loss charity RNIB, David Clarke, has been appointed as the new CEO of the British Paralympic Association.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to David ahead of his move.
RNIBConnect
Image shows David Clarke.
Our David Hogg has more on how you can get out and about in Edinburgh
To find out more or to get involved in the East Lothian Health Walk group you can email Shona at Shona.Black@RNIB.org.uk
Sam Gough is a blind sports sensation.
She joined Amelia Hilton to talk about her Swimming, Blind Football, and Goalball triumphs.
Image: RNIB Connect Radio logo.
What's it like going to the World Cup when you're blind? How can you enjoy audio description live from the ground when you're thousands of miles away?
Dave Williams speaks to blind football fan Pardy Gill about his experiences watching World Cup football in Qatar.
They also discuss how you can access live audio description for all the remaining games.
Download information for the FIFA Interpreting app can be found here:
iOS: FIFA Interpreting on the App Store (apple.com)
Google Play Store: FIFA Interpreting - Apps on Google Play
Event Codes for remaining matches:
December 9: Netherlands vs Argentina - ADCLUS
December 9: Croatia vs Brazil - ADCECS
December 10: Morocco vs Portugal - ADCATS
December 10: England vs France - ADCABS
December 13: Semi Final - ADCLUS
December 14: Semi Final - ADCABS
December 17: Third Place Play-Off: ADCKIS
December 18: Final - ADCLUS
RNIB's Chief Operating Officer David Clarke is a huge football fan and had a successful career playing for the England International blind football team.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to David about the forthcoming World Cup in Qatar, discussing their tips for the winners, audio described matches and some of the controversy around the games.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
RNIB's Chief Operating Officer David Clarke is a huge football fan and had a successful career playing for the England International blind football team.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to David about the forthcoming World Cup in Qatar, discussing their tips for the winners, audio described matches and some of the controversy around the games.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
British blind sport have launched two new toolkits, for sight loss societies & sports providers, to make getting active more accessible.
RNIB's Connect radio Allan Russell spoke to Charlotte from BBS to find out more.
For more details go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently
if your blind or partially sighted & live in Scotland, Scottish disability golf & curling have a great opportunity fir you to try curling or golf.
RNIB's connect radio Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gayle's to learn more about the opportunities to play for fun or competitively.
RNIBConnect
Image RNIB's See Sport Differently logo
Do you know a young person with sight loss who'd like to be more active? Hywel Davies has been hearing about a new taster session to get people moving.
For further information on the upcoming football training sessions in Edinburgh, contact Neil Atkinson on 07858 687 528 or email neil.atkinson@rnib.org.uk
The home of English football, St George's Park training facility, has just celebrated its 10th birthday. Hywel Davies spoke to Catherine Gilby, Head of Para Performance for the English FA, to see what a difference-maker the facility has been for English para sides.
Image shows English FA Logo. Three lions in a white shield.
2023 will see the IBSA World Games come to Birmingham.
The games are for blind and partially sighted elite athletes and will be a springboard for the next Paralympic Games.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Alaina MacGregor, CEO of British Blind Sport, and Sandro Di Girolamo, IBSA President, to find out more.
If you'd like more on the games, go to www.ibsasport.org Or www.BritishBlindSport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
Step Change Studios is an award-winning, pioneering dance company committed to making dance accessible for everyone.
Thanks to support from Metro Blind Sport they have been running Weekly Ballroom And Latin Dance Classes for adults who are visually impaired.
Their founder, Rashmi Becker MBE has been telling our Paulina Kuchorew all about them.
The classes take place Sundays 2:30 PM at the Seymour Leisure Centre in Westminster. Find out more here: Home | Step Change Studios or get in touch via email: contact@stepchangestudios.com
Image shows two people dancing. A man dressed in black and a woman dressed in a flowing red gown.
Would you like to spend a week on a yacht, sailing around parts of the English South coast in July 2023?
If your blind or partially sighted, even if you've never been on a boat before, there's an invite for you to get involved.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Will Bridge, one of the organisers, to learn more about the week and how people can apply.
Applications open on January 1st 2023, with the week beginning on July 8th, and if you'd like more info, go to www.sailingvision.org
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
Time to take to the waters and catch up with visually impaired Sailor Emily Wright to find out what it was like competing in her first Blind Match Racing Championships in France.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Emily Wright, who first took up sailing through the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. With the support of the Trust Emily has gained her Royal Yachting Association Day Skipper certificate, competed in her first yacht race with Round the Island Race earlier this summer on board the trust’s yacht Solent Hero with Ellen joining them for the race too and has now competed in her first Blind match Racing Championships with GBR Blind Sailing.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Emily to find out how the blind Match Racing Championships went in France, how match racing differs from both yacht races like Round the Island Race and blind fleet racing.
Emily explained to Toby how blind match Racing works as unlike blind fleet racing where there is a mix of both visually impaired and sighted crew on board in match racing it is just the visually impaired sailors on board, using sounds on the boats and the marks marking the course, with match racing being one boat against another and a bit like playing chess on the water.
Emily talked about what she will take from her blind match racing experience to her racing with her sighted friends at University and to other up-coming blind racing championships too.
If like Emily you would like to get into sailing and racing as a blind or partially sighted person then do visit the GBR Blind Sailing website where you will find out more about opportunities to get into sailing and race training-
https://www.gbrblindsailing.co.uk
For more about the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, visit the Trust’s website-
https://www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org
(Image shows Emily's Team's yacht with two white sails up with the letters 'FRA' written on them in black. There are three people sat onboard, one of whom is facing towards the camera and smiling)
Scottish Disability Golf and Curling is a charity which enables anyone to pick up a golf club, play for fun, play to an international tournament level, or just have a game and socialise.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales to hear about some recent tournaments and how beginners are encouraged to come along and have a go.
If you'd like more info on SDGC, go to www.scottishdgc.org.uk or call 07903596552.
RNIBConnect
Image shows a golf course.
British Blind Sport, along with UK Deaf Sport and Sport Birmingham, are hosting an event on August 18th 2022 to give 10 to 20 year olds, with disabilities, the chance to try some Commonwealth Games sports.
The free family fun day aims to be a fun and exciting event for everyone.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Connor, from British Blind Sport, to find out more about the free event and how to register.
For more information, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk or email connor@britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: See Sport Differently logo
What were the Top 10 moments of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games?
Our sports experts Allan Russell and Tom Burton take a look back at the big sporting event and the thrilling Closing Ceremony.
What were your favourite moments from the Games? Let us know at radio@rnib.org.uk
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
Our roving reporter Allan Russell is back in the studios, and joined by our sports expert Tom Burton to take a look ahead at today's action at the Commonwealth Games and of course, the exciting Closing Ceremony!
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
The para lawn bowls have concluded at this year's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and Allan Russell spoke to the gold medal winners from Scotland, George Miller, Melanie Inness, and Sarah Jane Ewing.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
Thursday evening saw the final of the Men's 100 meter T11 T12 race at the Alexandra stadium in Birmingham.
Allan Russell was there and spoke to England's Zac Shaw, who was aiming for a medal.
Image shows Allan interviewing Zac. They sit facing each other. Allan is wearing his headphones and holding out a microphone to Zac, whilst the athlete has the flag of England draped around his shoulders.
With the fantastic success of the England Lionesses winning the 2022 Euros you might be wanting to know a bit more about the history of Women’s Football?
Audio description company Rational Method have produced recorded descriptions for the exhibition ’Stoppage Time: Sheffield Women’s Football Her Story at Sheffield Library and the descriptions are available online too.
The Stoppage Time exhibition recognises and celebrates women’s involvement in football in and around Sheffield and beyond, from the 19th century to the present day.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Nathan Geering from Rational Method to find out more about the exhibition and the recorded descriptions.
Nathan began by telling Toby a bit about the background to Rational Method and the type of audio description they produce which also uses beat box and sound affects to describe movement in dance and the performing arts.
Nathan also talked about how Rational Method started working with FURD (Football Unites, Racism Divides) on the descriptions of the photographs, posters and other exhibits that make up the exhibition ’Stoppage Time: Sheffield Women’s Football Her Story’ with Nathan highlighting one of the exhibits that showcases how women’s football was promoted and marketed back in the 1980s and how we have come on a long way since then.
The audio descriptions for ‘Stoppage Time: Sheffield Women’s Football Her Story’ can be found by visiting the following website-
https://www.welcometosheffield.co.uk/visit/uefa-women-s-euro-2022/stoppage-time-Sheffield-women-s-football-herstory-exhibition/
To find out more about Nathan and Rational Method do visit the following website-
https://rationalemethod.com
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
What's it like volunteering at the Commonwealth Games?
Our Paulina Kuchorew chats with visually impaired volunteer Alison Smith about her experience.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
Chloe MacCombe and her twin sister Judith were competing in the Commonwealth Games Triathlon event in Birmingham last weekend.
Our Allan Russell spoke to Chloe to find out how they got on, how they work with guides during the race and what's their next competition.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
Go behind the Commonwealth Games with our Tech Talk host Dave Williams, who looks back at his experience attending the Athletics with his son.
Dave spoke with Afternoon Edition's David Hogg.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
Let's travel down to Birmingham as our Allan Russell catches up with one athlete that had a pretty good run at the heats today.
Image shows Allan interviewing Zac. They sit facing each other. Allan is wearing his headphones and holding out a microphone to Zac, whilst the athlete cradles his bright orange runners.
Commonwealth Games' big crunch match was at the para lawn balls court today.
Once the final bowl has landed, our Allan Russell caught up with the mixed pairs teams from England and Scotland.
Good luck to the teams tomorrow and make sure to subscribe to our RNIB See Sport Differently podcast and keep up to date with all the action.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
Allan Russell is at the Para Bowls heats for the 2022 Commonwealth Games and spoke with Judy Plater, from Disability Bowls, to look at one of today's crunch matches and to encourage more people to join the growing sport.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
What's the action like at the Commonwealth Games this Monday?
Our roving reporter Allan Russell looks back at today's events and highlights what else we can look forward to throughout.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
The World Para Triathlon Series makes its way to the UK for the first time this weekend. We spoke to Tom Hodgkinson, Head of Paratriathlon for British Triathlon to find out what the event means for the sport and its future.
For more information on all things para triathlon, visit the British Triathlon website at www.britishtriathlon.org
Image Shows: British Triathlon Logo
Time to reflect on their first Para Tandem Commonwealth Games as Libby Cleg MBE and Jenny Holl chat with our Toby Davey about their first Games and Libby swapping her running spikes for a Para Tandem.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
More from the Lee Valley Velodrome on Sunday for the Commonwealth Games as Toby Davey chats with Neil Fachie MBE and Lewis Stewart after their Silver in the Men's Tandem Sprint following their Gold in the 1000 metre Time Trial on Friday.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
More from the Commonwealth Games as Toby Davey chats with Scotland's Aileen McGlynn OBE and Ellie Stone following their Bronze in the Tandem Sprint at the Lee Valley Velodrome on Sunday for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
More from the Lee Valley Velodrome from Toby Davey as he catches up with Welsh gold and Silva medallists James Ball and Matthew Rotherham just after their triumphant Gold in the Men's Tandem Sprint on Sunday.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
More from the Commonwealth Games at the Lee Valley Velodrome as Toby Davey catches up with England's Sophie Unwin and Georgia Holt after their Silver medal in the Women's 1000 metre Tandem Time Trial on Sunday and not 100 metres as toby says in his introduction!
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
More from the Commonwealth Games as Toby Davey chats with Australians Jessica Gallagher and Caitlin Ward, following their gold-winning performance at Women's Tandem Sprint this Friday.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
We're at the Commonwealth Games with our roving reporter Toby Davey.
Here he caught para cyclist Neil Fachie and his pilot Lewis Stewart, fresh after receiving their gold medals for the tandem 1000m time trial.
Image shows the Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022 logo.
What's happening at the Commonwealth Games?
Our Toby Davey is at the centre of the action for today's paracycling and he's been sharing what the atmosphere's like with Allan on the Daily Connect this morning.
Image shows Toby and his guide dog Willow at the Velodrome in London for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Toby is wearing big headphones and holding a microphone with a fluffy mic wind shield.
Barry Snell caught up with marathon runner and charity fundraiser Dave Heeley OBE, who has just taken part in the Queens Baton relay as it made it's way through the West Midlands as part of the build up to the Commonwealth Games.
Dave is no stranger to these events but doing it in his home town was extra special and he was also joined for the occasion with new guide dog Peter.
To learn more about Dave and his incredible charity runs visit blinddaveheeley.co.uk
{Image = Dave standing with his arms outstretched and he is smiling. He is wearing a officially branded Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 top, which has red sleeves and a white body}
The Commonwealth Games opening ceremony is happening tonight, so let's have a look ahead at this summer's big sporting event.
Here's Allan Russell chatting with our sports expert Tom Burton.
Keep listening to RNIB Connect Radio throughout the Commonwealth Games again as we keep you up to the date with all the action!
Image shows the Commonwealth Games 2022 logo.
Welsh Athletics is hosting a workshop in October 2022 to help train more guides to support blind and partially sighted runners. Hywel Davies finds out why getting more visually impaired people into the sport is a priority.
If you'd like to take part, you can register for the guide runners workshop via the Welsh Athletics website www.welshathletics.org
The Commonwealth Games launch in Birmingham on July 28th 2022, with the sporting spectacular showing off it's inclusive credentials. Over the games RNIB Connect Radio's presenters will be in the sporting venues, following the action and bringing you the latest on our blind and partially sighted sporting greats. Today we're chatting with Chloe and Judith MacCombe, Tri-Athletes from Northern Ireland, to learn about their prep for the games and what it will be like competing in Birmingham. Keep up to date with our interviews and reports on Freeview channel 730, online at www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk or via apps like Radio Player or on your Smart speakers. For our podcasts, go to your favourite podcast provider and search for RNIB See Sport Differently.
RNIBConnect
Image: See Sport Differently logo
The Commonwealth Games launch in Birmingham on July 28th 2022, with the sporting spectacular showing off it's inclusive credentials. Over the games RNIB Connect Radio's presenters will be in the sporting venues, following the action and bringing you the latest on our blind and partially sighted sporting greats. Today we're joined by Philippa Bass, from British Blind Sport, to look ahead to the games and how you can get involved in the charity's Have A Go Days, where you can try out, for free, lots of sports and activities which are fully accessible for anyone, of any age or fitness, to try out. Keep up to date with our interviews and reports on Freeview channel 730, online at www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk or via apps like Radio Player or on your Smart speakers. For our podcasts, go to your favourite podcast provider and search for RNIB See Sport Differently.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
The Commonwealth Games launch in Birmingham on July 28th 2022, with the sporting spectacular showing off it's inclusive credentials. Over the games RNIB Connect Radio's presenters will be in the sporting venues, following the action and bringing you the latest on our blind and partially sighted sporting greats. Today, we hear from Para Cyclist Neil Fachie and his Pilot Lewis Stewart as they talk about their prep for the games and Neil's chance to become one of the most decorated Para Athletes. Keep up to date with our interviews and reports on Freeview channel 730, online at www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk or via apps like Radio Player or on your Smart speakers. For our podcasts, go to your favourite podcast provider and search for RNIB See Sport Differently.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently
The Commonwealth Games launch in Birmingham on July 28th 2022, with the sporting spectacular showing off it's inclusive credentials. Over the games RNIB Connect Radio's presenters will be in the sporting venues, following the action and bringing you the latest on our blind and partially sighted sporting greats. Today we're joined by Charlotte Lloyd, from British Blind Sport, to look ahead to the games, find out who her stars to watch are and learn how British Blind Sport are helping more blind and partially sighted people get active. Keep up to date with our interviews and reports on Freeview channel 730, online at www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk or via apps like Radio Player or on your Smart speakers. For our podcasts, go to your favourite podcast provider and search for RNIB See Sport Differently.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
The Commonwealth Games launch in Birmingham on July 28th 2022, with the sporting spectacular showing off it's inclusive credentials. Over the games RNIB Connect Radio's presenters will be in the sporting venues, following the action and bringing you the latest on our blind and partially sighted sporting greats. Today we're joined by Emma Ord, from Birmingham 2022, to look at how accessible the games will be for participants, spectators and other visitors. Keep up to date with our interviews and reports on Freeview channel 730, online at www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk or via apps like Radio Player or on your Smart speakers. For our podcasts, go to your favourite podcast provider and search for RNIB See Sport Differently.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
The Commonwealth Games launch in Birmingham on July 28th 2022, with the sporting spectacular showing off it's inclusive credentials. Over the games RNIB Connect Radio's presenters will be in the sporting venues, following the action and bringing you the latest on our blind and partially sighted sporting greats. Today, Alaina MacGregor, CEO of British Blind Sport, and David Clarke, Chief Operating Officer for RNIB, look ahead to the games and next year's IBSA World Championships, which will also be held in Birmingham. Keep up to date with our interviews and reports on Freeview channel 730, online at www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk or via apps like Radio Player or on your Smart speakers. For our podcasts, go to your favourite podcast provider and search for RNIB See Sport Differently.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently
Are you on the look-out for a great way to get fit?
Well, there are some free taster sessions coming up in Bristol and joining our Paulina Kuchorew to tell us all about them are fitness instructors Hayley Rose and Marcella Manzilli.
Taster Days for Keep Fit Classes will take place at 2 PM on Monday 19th of September and 26th of September. Classes will continue after that every Monday at 2 PM at the same location.
Location: Kingswood leisure centre Church road Staple hill BS16 4RH
Email contact: rechargeft@gmail.com
Image shows a woman stretching out on a yoga mat. She is holding the upward dog position. The legs are stretched out straight, the toes out, and the weight of the body is supported on the hands with outstretched arms so the hips are off the ground. The gaze is directed straight upwards, so the neck and back are arched.
If you're looking for more ways to keep active, then visiting a 'Have a Go Day' run by British Blind Sport is a great way to get started. The next event will be held in south Wales on Saturday August 27th.
If you'd like more information on how you can take part, call 01926 424247, or visit the website www.britishblindsport.org.uk/bbs-a-have-a-go-day-in-swansea/
Time to take to the high seas again as we catch up with visually impaired sailor Emily Wright who took part in her first ever yacht race with the Round the Island Race on Saturday 25 June 2022 with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust on the Trust’s yacht Solent Hero with Ellen MacArthur joining the crew for the race too. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey began by asking Emily what the build up was like for the Round the Island Race, the practice day, getting up early on Saturday morning to get to the start line and what it was like waiting for the gun to go off for the start of Emily’s first Round the Island Race. Emily described to Toby what it was like after the start gun had gone off, tacking up to that iconic Isle of Wight landmark, the Needles, sailing round the Island and coming back to Cowes to the finish line with the spinnaker (kite) flying and Emily taking the helm too while the kite was up. Emily also shared with Toby how inspiring it was to have Ellen join the crew of Solent Hero for the Round the Island Race 2022 passing on some good sailing tips and tricks to her and the rest of the crew of Solent Hero from some of the many races that Ellen has taken part in over the years. Watch this space as it won’t be long before we hear more from Emily and maybe news about her first medal winning yacht race too! To find out more about the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust do visit the Trust’s website- https://www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org And if like Emily you would like to get into sailing and racing as a blind or partially sighted person then do visit the GBR Blind Sailing website where you will find out more about opportunities to get into sailing and race training- https://www.gbrblindsailing.co.uk
(Image shows Emily out at sea at the helm of a boat with some of her team around her, smiling towards the camera. There are other sailboats in the background and the sun is shining)
For the first time the Cinch Tennis Championships at Queens will have the unique 'Action Audio' available for visually impaired viewers. Hywel Davies has been finding out why it's such an important milestone for fans in the UK.
If you want to experience the 'Action Audio' coverage of the semi-finals and finals of the Cinch Tennis Championships, you can do so via the LTA's website www.lta.org.uk and via the BBC Sport website www.bbc.co.uk/sport on Saturday June 18th and Sunday June 19th 2022.
Now time to take to the waters to hear all about how visually impaired sailor Emily Wright first took up the sport of sailing as one of the activities on offer from the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. Emily has not only completed her RYA Day Skipper certificate, notching up many nautical miles with the trust but Emily will be racing round the Isle of Wight on Saturday 25 June with the Trust for the annual Round the Island Yacht Race 2022. Emily also has her sights set on representing Great Britain in blind sailing championships having recently started training with GBR Blind Sailing. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey who has done a bit of sailing himself caught up with Emily to find out how she is feeling about taking part in her first Round the Island Race with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and how the recent training has been going with GBR Blind Sailing. Emily began by telling Toby how she first heard of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and how Ellen’s story of coming 2nd in the single-handed Vendée Globe round the world yacht race at the age of 24 shows young people that they can achieve their goals and reach their dreams no matter what life throws at them with the support of the trust too. Emily then gave Toby an insight into what is involved in studying for and completing her Royal Yachting Association Day Skipper Certificate and how the trust were there to support and help Emily in the preparation for her day skipper theory and practical courses. Toby then asked Emily how she was feeling about taking part with the trust in her first Round the Island Yacht Race on Saturday 25 June 2022 and how the preparations had been going before then asking Emily about her recent training with GBR Blind Sailing with her sights on representing Great Britain at international and world Blind Fleet and Match Racing Sailing championships. Toby will be catching up with Emily after the Round the Island yacht Race to find out how the race went for Emily and the rest of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust team. To find out more about the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust do visit the Trust’s website - https://www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org
And if like Emily you would like to get into sailing and racing as a blind or partially sighted person then do visit the GBR Blind Sailing website where you will find out more about opportunities to get into sailing and race training - https://www.gbrblindsailing.co.uk
(Image shows Emily sat on a Yacht out at sea. She is wearing a life jacket, black waterproof clothing and a wooly hat and is holding a mug of tea of coffee whilst smiling towards the camera)
You've heard of the Brownly brothers, but have you heard of the Tandem Twins? Chloe and Judith MacCombe, twins and Para-Triathletes will be heading to Birmingham in the summer to compete in the Commonwealth Games. Ellie caught up with them to find out what it means to them, and to find out about just home much training is involved.
You can follow Chloe and Judith's progress by following them on social media @tandem_twins
We'll be bringing you all the excitement from the games on RNIB Connect Radio
Image shows: Chloe (left) and Judith (right) after a race in their triathlon training gear, Chloe is in blue and black and Judith is in a pink, orange and black.
The Queens Club Championships is one of the highlights of the British Tennis season. Hywel Davies has been finding out how new technology has made this year's finals more accessible than ever.
Action Audio is available for the semi-finals and Final of the Cinch Championships on Saturday June 18th and Sunday June 19th, you'll find all the details on the LTA website - www.lta.org.uk/fan-zone/international/cinch-championships/match-centre/
(Image shows a packed centre court watching a tennis game)
Blind players from Brighton and Hove Albion FC are getting ready to take part in this year's FA Disability Cup Tournament.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Charlotte Lloyd, from British Blind Sport, and Paul Brackley, from Brighton FC, to learn more about the tournament and the team.
RNIBConnect
Image shows: Logo for Brighton And Hove Albion FC
Time now to talk sports, in particular wrestling, David Hogg has been speaking to blind pro wrestler James Chilvers about his sight loss, his wrestling career and how it felt to have a character in the movie Fighting With My Family based on his story.
The sport of Goalball has been growing in popularity but how easy is it to play and can anyone give it a go?
Our Paulina Kuchorew spoke with a newbie to the sport, Jay Johnson, about his recent decision to join the Glasgow Goalball Club.
Give Glasgow Goalball Club a follow here: Glasgow Goalball | Facebook
Fore more information on Goalball in your local area visit: Goalball UK – Transforming people's lives
Image shows Jay with a dog.
Let's learn a little bit about goalball today!
Our Paulina Kuchorew headed over to a local goalball session to meet with Alan Lewis from the Glasgow Goalball Club.
Give Glasgow Goalball Club a follow here: Glasgow Goalball | Facebook
Fore more information on Goalball in your local area visit: Goalball UK – Transforming people's lives
Image shows members of the Glasgow Goalball Club holding up a Glasgow Goalball Banner.
This June sees the first ever Women's Blind Football 'European Championships' in Italy. Hywel Davies spoke to the newly formed England Women's side ahead of the competition.
For more information on how to watch the Women's Team in action when they take on Germany, visit www.ibsasport.org
To find out how you can get involved in blind football, visit Blind Football - Football Your Way - Disability - Play - Get Involved | The Football Association (thefa.com)
(Image shows two football players tackling for the ball at St George's Park)
The Tower Hamlet's Canoeing Club is encouraging more people with sight loss to take up canoeing. They have dedicated training courses and are also training volunteer guides to open up the leisure activity to more people. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Alex Smith, from the club, and blind canoeist Richard Simpson to learn more about the sport and how they hope other clubs will follow in their wake.
RNIBConnect
Image: See Sport Differently logo
Paralympic champion Melanie Barratt is hoping to become the first blind woman to cross the English Channel solo. She won't be taking to the high seas until 2024 but there is a lot of training, and a few lakes and locks to conquer along the way. Ellie caught up with Melanie to find out about the training, the inspiration and her new initiative which could help you get into cold water swimming.
To follow Melanie's journey you can find her on Facebook, just search for 'Against the tide - blind wild swimming'. You can find her on Instagram @blind_girl_swims
To join the new group matching up experienced cold water swimmers with a blind or partially sighted person wanting to give it a try, search for 'blind swim buddies' on Facebook.
Inage shows: Melanie smiling in the sea, with the cost in the background and her goggles on her head.
June 2022 will see BT Sport broadcast the finals of the FA Disability Cup, which will feature some of the best blind and partially sighted football teams. The FA is also in the midst of a huge internal and external project to improve access to the game, to voluntary and employment opportunities and to grow more grass roots teams which will showcase the best players with a range of disabilities and sensory challenges. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Baroness Sue Campbell from the FA to find out more.
RNIBConnect
Image: England Football Association logo
Barry Snell chats with Barry McCluskey ahead of this years British Open blind golf championship, which gets underway during the first week of July.
One of many upcoming tournaments, Barry's keen to get back out playing regularly after the past few years of lockdown restrictions.
Barry also mentions how he has recently become involved in politics.
if you would like to find out more information about Barry McCluskey click on the link below to visit his website.
barrymccluskeyblindgolfer.co.uk
If you're blind and interested in playing football for fun or to reach the heights of playing for your country, the National Blind League wants to hear from you.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Robin Williams to learn more about the set up, it's goals for the future and how you can get involved in your local area.
If you'd like more information about NBL, email Robin@robinwilliams.blog
You can also call or text 07525809495
There's an Instagram page @FABlindFootball or find them on Facebook.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB's See Sport Differently logo
Dave Heeley OBE, known to many as blind Dave, has raised thousands of pounds for charity fundraising around the World.
In his latest challenge Dave and his team cycled 800 miles from Colditz Castle in Germany to West Bromwich Albion's Hawthorns stadium, in the West Midlands.
Barry Snell caught up with Dave to find out how this challenge felt after the last few years of Covid restrictions.
If you would like to learn more about Dave, click here: https://blinddaveheeley.co.uk/
[Image - Close up of a smiling Dave taken while he is running, he is wearing a white T-shirt, with Blind Dave written in blue across the front. He is also wearing a blue and grey bandana}
Wing Chun Kung Fu is a well established martial art which can be used for self defence, general fitness and can even be used like Tai Chi, to promote balance and inner strength. The style is also well suited for being taught to blind and partially sighted people, due to it's close proximity stances and reliance on touch sensitivity rather than sight. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Martin Gibbons, Wing Chun teacher, to discuss the martial art and it's suitability for teaching to visually impaired students. If you'd like more information on Wing Chun in your area, search online for local classes. For those in the Glasgow area, contact Martin for a taster session via https://www.facebook.com/Wing-Chun-Private-Lessons-105947932104613
RNIBConnect
Image: Martin Gibbons, Wing Chun teacher
A major global sporting event will be coming to Birmingham in 2023. The International Blind Sports Association, IBSA, will host their World Games, which will be attended by 70 countries. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to SANDRO DI Girolamo, President of IBSA.
RNIBConnect
Image: IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) logo
A major global sporting event will be coming to Birmingham in 2023. The International Blind Sports Association, IBSA, will host their World Games, which will be attended by 70 countries. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to former Paralympian and former Chief Exec of the British Paralympic Association, Tim Reddish.
RNIBConnect
Image: IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) logo
A major global sporting event will be coming to Birmingham in 2023. The International Blind Sports Association, IBSA, will host their World Games, which will be attended by 70 countries. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Sally Barker, Chair of British Blind Sport.
RNIBConnect
Image: IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) logo
A major global sporting event will be coming to Birmingham in 2023. The International Blind Sports Association, IBSA, will host their World Games, which will be attended by 70 countries. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Paralympic cyclists, Neil and Lora Fachie.
RNIBConnect
Image: IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) logo
A major global sporting event will be coming to Birmingham in 2023. The International Blind Sports Association, IBSA, will host their World Games, which will be attended by 70 countries. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Evan Molloy, a medal winning visually impaired Judo athlete.
RNIBConnect
Image: IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) logo
A major global sporting event will be coming to Birmingham in 2023. The International Blind Sports Association, IBSA, will host their World Games, which will be attended by 70 countries. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to former Paralympian and Chief Operations Officer for RNIB, David Clarke.
RNIBConnect
Image: IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) logo
A major global sporting event will be coming to Birmingham in 2023. The International Blind Sports Association, IBSA, will host their World Games, which will be attended by 70 countries. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Alaina MacGregor, chief exec of British Blind Sport.
RNIBConnect
Image: IBSA (International Blind Sports Federation) logo
With days getting longer and warmer, many of us are looking for different ways to boost our mood. Now, one great way of doing that is by getting out and enjoying the fresh air. And what better way to do that than with a little bit of cycling?
Well, if you are visually impaired and live in Scotland, you could try out tandem cycling thanks to the fantastic In Tandem project.
To find out a bit more our Paulina Kuchorew has been chatting with Andrew Campbell from Cycling UK and Chair of the Ayrshire Tandem Club Natalie Jamieson.
Find out more by searching for Ayrshire Tandem Club on Facebook.
Image shows 2 people on a tandem bike, the stoker in the back is smiling and showing a piece sign as they look back.
IBSA is the International Blind Sports Federation and their World Games will take place in Birmingham in 2023.
Visually impaired athletes from 70 countries will compete for medals and places in the Paralympics, in sports like Football, Goalball and Judo.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Alaina MacGregor, from British Blind Sport, to learn more about the games and the launch which takes place on April 27th 2022.
To watch the launch event live visit: International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) - YouTube
If you'd like more information about the games, go to https://ibsasport.org/
For details about British Blind Sport, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB's See Sport Differently logo
Metro Blind Sport, based in London, is a charity which aims to get more blind and partially sighted people actively enjoying a wide range of sports and leisure activities. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Martin Symcox to learn more about their athletics event, taking place in London on June 11th, which will have sports for people of all fitness levels. If you'd like more info on the event, go to www.metroblindsport.org
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg chats to Olympic medal winning boxer and current AEW wrestler Anthony Ogogo about sight loss, how he picked himself up following his retirement from boxing and his time in All Elite Wrestling.
Photo is of Anthony Ogogo smiling as he walks to the ring at AEW's 2021 Double Or Nothing event.
Since the pandemic began the National Lottery has given millions of pounds to community football sides across the country. The Barry Town United Pan Disability side is one team who've benefited from this support. Hywel went to meet the side's visually impaired coach Chloe Mc Bratney and former England captain Karen Carney.
Image shows former England Captain Karen Carney watching as coach Chloe McBratney crouches to give a high five to her guide dog Emily.
Barry Snell chats to Roger Cole ahead of the blind golf season, which gets underway on the 9th April with the Primary Club Match Play.
Roger, who will be competing in the tournament, is looking for more blind and partially sighted people to give it a go & he discusses the many benefits of being involved in blind golf.
If you would like to find out more about the game of blind golf, click below
https://ewblindgolf.co.uk
Winter Paralympics GB youngest athlete, 19 year-old visually impaired skier Neil Simpson along with his 21 year-old Brother Andrew not only won the first Paralympics GB Gold of the Beijing games in the Super G but they have just won a Bronze in the Super Combined. Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with the Banchory boys, Neil and Andrew Simpson to find out what winning a Bronze and Gold medal in their first Winter Paralympic Games means to them both and whether they had gone into their first games expecting to win medals
Neil began by saying how proud he is of how well they have done so far in their first Winter Paralympic Games and how both the Gold in the Super G and the Bronze in the Super Combined have been a real bonus for them in their first games. Neil then explained to Toby how in the Super Combined they made a bit of a mistake in the Super G but had a great run in the Slalom which put them back on the podium. Andrew told Toby that as they have been skiing together for years they don’t need to say that much to each other over the headset during the runs as they know each other so well which may be of an advantage for them on other skiers. Andrew will feed back to Neil about the state of the snow, whether there are any ruts to look out for to ensure that Neil has a smooth and fast line down the course. They did not expect to come out with medals going in to their first Winter Paralympic Games and they are going to have a bit of a rest before a day training for the Giant Slalom later in the games. Congratulations again to Neil and Andrew on their Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympics Gold Super G medal and their Bronze in the Super Combined from everyone here at the RNIB. To find out more about the Winter Paralympic Sports do visit the Paralympics GB website - https://paralympics.org.uk/sports do visit For details of how to get into Snow Sports as a blind or partially sighted person do visit the Snow Sports page of the British Blind Sports website -
https://britishblindsport.org.uk/membership/bbs-sports/snow-sports/
(Image shows 'Flying High', the Beijing 2022 Paralympics logo. A multicoloured adaptation of the Chinese symbol for 'Fly'. The Words Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games are written in the centre of the image and the Paralympic symbol is underneath which consists of three agitos, coloured red, blue, and green)
A silver medal in the Super G at the Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympic Games for Paralympics GB visually impaired Skier Menna Fitzpatrick and her Guide Skier Gary Smith not only takes Menna’s Winter Paralympic Games medal tally to 5 but also crowns Menna as the most decorated Winter Paralympics GB Athlete in history so far!
Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Menna and Gary from Beijing to find out what that Super G medal run was like for them and how proud does Menna feel now that she has been crown most decorated Winter Paralympics GB Athlete in history.
Menna and Gary took Toby through the Super G Silver Medal run with some tricky bits for Menna with patches of light and dark due to the sunshine in Beijing. How they communicate to each other through the headsets that they wear and how Menna also follows Gary in his bright yellow jacket too during their competition runs. With no training run for the Super G, Gary talks about how important the inspection of the course is and how he and Menna talk through their strategy for the run.
Menna talked about how close the competition is out there in Beijing, how well the Paralympics GB team have done so far during the games and especially the women skiers with Millie Knight and her guide Bret Wild just missing out on another medal coming in 4th in the women’s Super G,
With Menna ending by saying what it really feels like to be the most decorated Winter Paralympics GB Athlete in history and how there will be no celebrating until the end of the games and an early night for them as the Super Combined has been brought forward one day to Monday 7 March 2022. Congratulations again to Menna and Gary on their Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympics Super G silver medal and of course congratulations to Menna on becoming the most decorated Winter Paralympics GB Athlete in history so far from everyone here at the RNIB. To find out more about the Winter Paralympic Sports do visit the Paralympics GB website - https://paralympics.org.uk/sports do visit For details of how to get into Snow Sports as a blind or partially sighted person do visit the Snow Sports page of the British Blind Sports website -
https://britishblindsport.org.uk/membership/bbs-sports/snow-sports/
(Image shows 'Flying High', the Beijing 2022 Paralympics logo. A multicoloured adaptation of the Chinese symbol for 'Fly'. The Words Beijing 2022 Paralympic Games are written in the centre of the image and the Paralympic symbol is underneath which consists of three agitos, coloured red, blue, and green)
Scottish Disability Golf and Curling is dedicated to bringing 2 great sports to everyone, no matter what their disability. There's opportunities for experienced players and complete novices to get involved with free professional training, leagues, competitions and a great opportunity to make new friends. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales, from SDGC, to learn more about the game, as a blind player, and how people can get involved. For more information, go to https://www.scottishdgc.org.uk/
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB's See Sport Differently logo
Let's chat sport.
Staying active can be a great way to not only look after our health and wellbeing but also to socialise and meet new people.
So today, we're hearing all about a new project that is inviting visually impaired people to give Rugby a go in Scotland!
Maggie Lawrie from Strathmore Community Rugby Trust spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew about the sessions and how to join in.
The sessions run every Sunday morning at the Forfar Community Campus and are available to anyone 18-years or over.
To find out more email: info@strathmoretrust.co.uk or visit: https://www.strathmoretrust.co.uk/
Image shows an outline of a person running with a rugby ball in their hand with the words: 'Developing People Through Rugby' underneath.
Today (Tuesday 22 February 2022) Paralympics GB have announced the selected athletes who will be representing Great Britain in Beijing at the 2022 Winter Paralympic Games (4 - 13 March 2022). RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with visually impaired alpine skier Millie Knight who along with her Guide Skier, Bret Wild, have been selected to compete at the 2022 Winter Paralympic Games. Millie first competed in the Winter Paralympic Games at the age of 14 out in Sochi in 2014 with her Mum as her Guide Skier and she was picked to hold the flag and lead out the team too.
Millie went on to compete with her Guide Skier Bret Wild in the winter games in PyeongChang in 2018 and won two silver medals. Millie and Bret recently became Super Combined Champions at the 2022 World Championships which were held in Norway in January 2022. Millie began by telling Toby how she got into skiing and competing in those early days with her Mum as her Guide Skier. Millie then explained to Toby how she and Bret work when they are competing and hurtling down the slopes at breakneck speeds. Millie ended by sharing with Toby her thoughts on going into the games following the recent success she and Bret had at the World Championships, although Millie tells Toby that she is focusing on her day to day routine and keeping fit both physically and mentally and taking each day as it comes to be in the best shape for the games. We wish Millie, Bret and the rest of the Paralympics GB Team all the best for the Winter Paralympic Games in Beijing from everyone here at the RNIB. Here on RNIB Connect Radio we will be following the teams progress, so do listen out for more about the Winter Paralympic Games as they happen here on Connect Radio.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
An upcoming event in Liverpool is hoping to give blind and partially sighted people of all ages the chance to try new sports. Hywel Davies has been finding out more.
If you're in the Merseyside area and would like to give it a go, you can go along to the Greenbank Sports Academy on Sunday February 13th. Or sign up beforehand at www.sightlosscouncils.org.uk/events/lets-get-active-day-liverpool/
Each year, the charity British Blind Sport holds it's, free and popular, swimming gala for visually impaired children aged 3 to 17. There's fun for beginners and competitions for swimmers who like a challenge and everyone is welcome. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Philippa Bass, from BBS, to learn more about the event and how you can register to attend. If you'd like more info about BBS, or the swimming gala, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
You can also call them on 01926 424 247 or email philippa@britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: British Blind Sport logo
You may be surprised to learn that, as a country famous for it's love of football, Scotland doesn't have many options for blind or partially sighted people to take up the game. That might be about to change though with the help of RNIB Scotland, Bathgate CFC and partners like the Scottish Football Association. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke with Dan Meikle from RNIB Scotland to learn more about the grass roots opportunities which are now gaining traction. We also hear from partially sighted footballer Neil Atkinson and Paul from Bathgate Community Football Club. If you'd like more info about Bathgate CFC, go to www.bathgatethistlecfc.co.uk or search for them on social media.
RNIBConnect
Image: See Sport Differently logo
Barry Snell catches up with Stuart Shepherd and Stuart Richards, 2 of the 'Wrekin Rowers' who have just completed the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, a 3000 mile row across the Atlantic Ocean.
The four-man crew were fundraising for RNIB and the Severn Hospice and have so far managed to raise more than £106k.
If you would like to find out more about the Wrekin Rowers please click on the link below:
Wrekin-rowers.com
Image: Wrekin rowers logo, a drawing of the crew inside their boat with waves surrounding them}
By his own admission, Dave Williams said he was the type of person who wouldn't run for a bus and getting fit wasn't his first priority. After being bitten by the tandem cycling bug, he moved onto running completely by accident. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell talks with Dave to find out how you can team up with a guide runner, how you start off your running journey and how you get to the stage where your looking to compete in some of the biggest marathons in the world. If you'd like more info on Guide Runners, or other sporting opportunities, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: Boston Marathon logo
British Blind Sport is a charity which is dedicated to making sport and leisure activities as accessible as possible for blind and partially sighted people of all ages. They also work with governing bodies, along with industry leaders and providers, to make venues and opportunities open and welcoming for people with sight loss. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Alex Pitts, from BBS, to look ahead to events like their annual swimming gala, Have A Go Days around the UK and a massive project called See Sport Differently. If you'd like more information about British Blind Sport, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
You can also email info@britishblindsport.org.uk or call 01926 424 247.
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB's See Sport Differently logo
Barry Snell chats to Stuart Shepherd from the Wreckin Rowers, as the and his crew members row frantically towards Antigua and the end of the #TWAC Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge 2021, a 3,000 mile row across the Atlantic Ocean to raise money for RNIB and the Severn Hospice.
During a brief rest Stuart talks about some of the challenges they have faced, including having their boat damaged by Marlin jumping out the water.
The four man crew are Martin Skeehan, Stuart Shepherd and Brothers Gary and Stuart Richards.
Read more about their epic challenge by clicking on the link below
wrekin-rowers.com
Image: Wrekin Rowers logo, which is a drawing of the guys in their boat at the mercy of the sea with the Wreckin Rowers logo underneath. The clouds are different shades of blue, to emphasise the waves.
Energise Leisure Centre in York are just one of the organisations that have taken advantage of a free accessibility toolkit from the charity Thomas Pocklington Trust. The free toolkit provides training and support for leisure providers, and their staff, to create a welcoming and accessible environment for customers who are blind or partially sighted. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Lucy Barratt, from Energise Leisure Centre in York, to find out why the free resource is so valuable. If you'd like to find out more about the free toolkit, go to www.pocklington-trust.org.uk or www.ukcoaching.org
If your in the York area and would like to find out more about Energise, go to www.better.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB's See Sport Differently logo
Many blind and partially sighted people miss out on going to places like the gym, leisure centre or other sporting clubs, simply because the venues don't know how to assist someone with a sight loss condition. Now, a new free toolkit from Pocklington Trust and UK Coaching can help service providers make their venues welcoming and confident places to go. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Martin Symcox, from TPT, to learn more about the free resource and why making facilities accessible for visually impaired visitors can be very inexpensive. If you'd like more info, or would like to get the free toolkit, go to www.pocklington-trust.org.uk or www.ukcoaching.org
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB's See Sport Differently logo
Barry Snell chats to Matthew Allcock, who despite his visual impairment loves nothing better than a sporting challenge… the latest of which is Rollerblading.
Matthew is keen for more people with sight loss to get involved and he certainly thinks its worth all the cuts and bruises.
{Image: A close up of someone's legs, from the knee down. They are outside, in the sun and they are wearing shiny black rollerblades and black protective knee pads}
The Saltire Strikers are a 10 pin bowling club, based in Glasgow, for blind and partially sighted people of all ages. The club is looking for new members and volunteers to get involved in the game, for fun or for competitions. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Ian Stevenson, from Saltire Strikers, to learn more about the club. If you'd like more info, or would like to join as a player or volunteer, go to http://saltirestrikers.co.uk/
RNIBConnect
Image: RNIB See Sport Differently logo
Scottish Disability Golf And Curling are looking for more visually impaired people to try the game of golf or curling, even if they've never taken part in the pursuits before. You can play for fun, to increase your social circle or even play in national and international competitions. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales, from SDGC, to learn more about the sports and how you can get free tuition from professionals. If you'd like more information, go to https://www.scottishdgc.org.uk/
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After a 2 year break, due to Lockdown rules, the ever popular Blind Sailing Week is back. If your blind or partially sighted, you can get out on the water for a fantastic week of yachting and beginners are welcome. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Will Bridge to find out more about the week and how you can get more information.
RNIBConnect
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Now when it comes to getting active and involved in sports, Rowing might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but Ellie's been catching up with one woman, who takes it all in her stride.
To get involved with the campaign visit- See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently
You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
With the launch of See Sports Differently we are looking at all the different ways people find to stay active and socialise with other people, Ellie's been talking to one group ahead of their first face to face session.
To get involved with the campaign visit- See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently
You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
With the launch of See Sport Differently we've been talking to blind and partially sighted people about their experience with sports. Ellie's been catching up with one man whose experience with Rugby brought him out of a dark depression and gave him the opportunity of a lifetime.
To get involved with the campaign visit- See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently
You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
Let's chat rugby!
And today, joining our Paulina Kuchorew to share with us his love of Rugby, is Leeds Rhinos Physical Disability Rugby League player James King.
RNIB knows that sport can have a positive impact on people's lives, but new research shows that blind and partially sighted people are twice as likely to be inactive than people without sight loss.
RNIB's new See Sport Differently campaign aims to change that, by breaking down barriers to sport and increasing participation opportunities for blind and partially sighted people.
Find out more about the Leeds Rhinos : Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRL) - Leeds Rhinos Foundation
To find out more and get involved with See Sport Differently visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/see-sport-differently
Image shows James dressed in his team shirt in front of a white background.
To celebrate RNIB’w #SeeSportDifferently campaign Connect Radio’s Red Szell met rising VI Tennis star Naqi Rizvi at The Globe Tennis Club in Camden.
To get involved with the campaign visit- See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently
You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
Running may seem to some like something that is for the fittest of the fit, people who have always been runners but Ellie's been talking to partially sighted runner Sundip who started running in his late 20's and now 10 years later has completed ultra marathons. Ellie's been finding out what motivates him, and what his advice would be to novice runners about to get started.
To get involved with the campaign visit- See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently
You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
The London Marathon is happening on October 3rd, Ellie's been catching up with one runner from team RNIB to find out her story and history with the race.
You can donate to Michelle's Just Giving find for RNIB here: Michelle Pitts is fundraising for RNIB - Royal National Institute of Blind People (justgiving.com)
To get involved with the campaign visit- See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently
You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
Today, RNIB launched their new See Sport Differently campaign.
Created in partnership with British Blind Sport and funded by Sport England and the National Lottery, this three year project aims to break down barriers in sport and increase participation opportunities for blind and partially sighted people.
Sport can have a positive impact on people’s lives but research shows that visually impaired people are twice as likely to be inactive than people without sight loss, and RNIB wants to change this.
We spoke with football legend and Director of Services at RNIB, David Clarke, to find out more.
To get involved with the campaign visit- See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently
You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
See Sport Differently launches today! We've been finding out what you love about sport. Ellie's been catching up with football fan Callum Russell about his love for a certain team from Manchester.To find out more about See Sport Differently please visit the website See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
We've been hearing from you about how sports have changed the course of your lives. Ellie's caught up with Frankie Rohan to discuss the positive impact of VI tennis on her, and the younger members of you VI Tennis club. G
To find out more about See Sport Differently, please visit this website - See Sport Differently - RNIB - See differently You can also find more interviews, case studies and information using the Hashtag #SeeSportDifferently on all social media.
Image shows: See Sport Differently Logo. RNIB in black letters at the top with pink stripes that look like the curve of a running track and in black letters underneath See Sport Differently.
We already know walking is good for your health, it gets you out in the fresh air, back to nature and of course exercising. But for this walking group the friendships that have been forged and the new people you meet are the most important thing when it comes to walking.
To find out more about Sheffields VI Walking group please visit this website: Sheffield Royal Society for the Blind (srsb.org.uk)
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Boccia is an inclusive Paralympic sport. With the success of David Smith in Boccia at the Paralympics in Tokyo this summer the popularity of the sport may well rise. Ellies been catching up with a club in Scarbrough, Scarboccia, to find out more about the sport and to see what they think of David's success..
To find out more about Scarboccia please visit their website here Scarboccia – For Everyone
Image shows: A seagull carrying a package with three balls in with it's beak, one white, one blue and one red. The Seagull is flying in front of a blue white and red background and above the seagull it writes: 'ScarBOCCIA Club'
Time now to hear about a group with a difference, So Xsighted Morris are the only VI Morris dancing group in the country, possibly the world. Ellie's been finding out more about them.
To find out more about the group please visit their website here: So Xsighted Morris | Facebook
Image shows: So Xsighted Morris Logo. An eye with So Xsighted written using two sticks crossing for the X and the rest written in ribbon.
RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell chats with Jim Gales, MBE about winning the British Open disability golf championship, his third time doing so.
Jim is the Chair and captain OF Scottish Disability Golf and Curling.
To find out more about SDGC please visit https://www.scottishdgc.org.uk
{Image - RNIB logo, Written in Black Writing RNIB See Differently against a white background. There is a pink between the words RNIB and See Differently}
Here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired medal winners from the Tokyo Paralympic Games to find out how they got into sport, what winning that medal was like out in Tokyo and their advice for other visually impaired people on how to get into sport at any level. Rebecca began by telling Toby how she grew up in a very competitive household with her three brothers and how she got into swimming at an early age with swimming lessons from the age of 5 as her Mum had a phobia of water and encouraged her to go swimming. Rebecca then explained to Toby what the lead up to Tokyo was like with the pandemic forcing pools to close and for some time forcing Rebecca to train in the back garden in a hot tub.
Rebecca shared with Toby how much pressure was on her in Tokyo after the very successful heats going into the final as the second fastest swimmer, being tipped to medal in the final race and how she did not expect to win silver at all. Rebecca also explained to Toby what it was like competing out there in Tokyo with no crowds watching but she said there was a real sense of community within the Teams. Finally Rebecca shared with Toby how sport has helped her with her mental health and wellbeing saying that swimming is something she can do on her own and does not need any help when she is in the pool and how swimming gives Rebecca that real sense of freedom, that she may not get when she is out of the pool. Rebecca also shared her thoughts for the future and whether her one year old son Patrick will follow her into the pool or not! Congratulations again Rebecca from everyone at the RNIB on that Paralympic Swimming Silver medal.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
Here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired medal winners from the Tokyo Paralympic Games to find out how they got into sport, what winning that medal was like out in Tokyo and their advice for other visually impaired people on how to get into sport at any level.
Our Toby Davey caught up with Chris Skelley who won Paralympics GB’s first Judo Gold medal. Chris began by telling Toby about how he got into sport, starting judo at the age of 5, his parents encouraging him to take up Judo to build his confidence, socialise and mix with other children as Chris has a hearing impairment as well as his sight loss. In his late teens Chris was diagnosed with Ocular Albinism and it was when Chris was diagnosed that he says, ‘it was a dark time in his life, everything left his life apart from his Judo’. Chris then talks about the lead up to the Tokyo Paralympic Games, turning the negative of the games, being delayed by a year into a positive and Chris says that the lead up to Tokyo has been the best preparation he has had so far going into a competition. Chris then shares with Toby the background to his very emotional interview he gave after winning that Judo Gold medal, a lot of emotion pouring out after many things happening in his early life, losing his late coach only two weeks before Tokyo and many other things that made the win even more special for Chris. How sport has helped him in his life turning Judo from a hobby to a passion when he had to give up his training as a mechanic, and how sport has helped with his mental health and wellbeing. Finally Chris gives his advice to other visually impaired people about getting into sport and what sport can give you if you just give sport a chance as well as his plans for hopefully a second gold Judo medal in Paris 2024. Congratulations again Chris from everyone here at the RNIB on that first Paralympics GB Judo Gold medal.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
Here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired medal winners from the Tokyo Paralympic Games to find out how they got into sport, what winning that medal was like out in Tokyo and their advice for other visually impaired people on how to get into sport at any level.
Our Toby Davey caught up with Ellen Buttrick, who along with the rest of the Paralympics GB Mixed Coxed 4 rowing team won a Gold medal out on the water in Tokyo. Ellen began by explaining to Toby that she was a very sporty child who wanted to try any sport but could not find anything she was really good at until she found rowing at the age of 17 when she signed up to join Leeds Rowing Team a week before the start of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Ellen was inspired by some of the London 2012 female rowers including Helen Glover who had only got into rowing 3 years prior to London, but it was the Paralympics that really inspired Ellen even more and she thought - wow these people are amazing imagine if I had a disability and I would love to do that and make the most of things - and two years later Ellen got that chance herself! Ellen then tells Toby about being diagnosed with Stargardt’s in 2014, making it into the Paralympic rowing team, training up to and through the pandemic getting to Tokyo, competing out on the water and of course that final Gold medal race finishing 11 seconds ahead of second place USA. Ellen ends by sharing her advice to other visually impaired people on how to get into sport, what they might get out of sport and giving things a go even if you don’t think you might be good at a sport as you will meet friends that you may never normally meet in life. Congratulations again Ellen to you and the rest of the Paralympics GB Mixed Coxed 4 rowing team from everyone at the RNIB on that Paralympic Rowing Gold medal.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
Here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired medal winners from the Tokyo Paralympic Games to find out how they got into sport, what winning that medal was like out in Tokyo and their advice for other visually impaired people on how to get into sport at any level.
Our Toby Davey court up with Aileen McGlynn who with her Pilot Hellen Scott won a Silver Cycling medal in the velodrome in Tokyo. Aileen began by telling Toby about getting on to a bicycle for the first time by borrowing her neighbour's child's bike, how at the age of 8 using her first Holy Communion money and savings to buy her own first proper bike, going on a 10-mile trip not long after buying that first bike to see one of her school friends and then joining a local cycling club. For Aileen it was watching the 2002 Commonwealth Games and seeing Chris Hoy win his Gold medal for Scotland that really got Aileen interested in cycling as a sport. Aileen then talks about how she got in to Paralympic Cycling and breaking cycling records at her early Paralympic cycling team trials. The lead up to the Tokyo Paralympic Games with Aileen and her Pilot Helen Scott who only teamed up 12 weeks prior to flying out to Japan for the games. Aileen shares with Toby what it was like out there in Tokyo during the games for her and Helen and of course what it was like winning that silver medal.
Aileen ends by passing on her advice to other visually impaired people about how to get into sport and her thoughts for the future on whether she will compete in Paris in 2024 for the next Paralympic Games. Congratulations again Aileen from everyone at the RNIB on that Paralympic Cycling Silver medal.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
Here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with some of the Paralympics GB visually impaired medal winners from the Tokyo Paralympic Games to find out how they got into sport, what winning that medal was like out in Tokyo and their advice for other visually impaired people on how to get into sport at any level.
Our Toby Davey court up with Dan Pembroke who smashed Paralympic records and of course also won that Javelin Gold medal too. Dan began by telling Toby how he first got into sport at school and how he just missed out on competing in the London 2012 Olympic Games due to an injury. Why he decided to go travelling round the world after missing out on London 2012. The deterioration of his RP while he was travelling which saw him come back to the UK with his fiancée gaining a place at the Royal National College for the Blind, getting back into athletics, and making it into the team for the Tokyo Paralympic Games. Dan also shares with Toby what it was like out their competing in Tokyo, smashing those records and of course winning that Gold Medal too! Congratulations again Dan from everyone at the RNIB on that Paralympic Javelin Gold medal and all the best for the next Athletics world Championships and the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
RNIB Connect Rowers Barry Snell chats to the crew members of the Wreckin' Rowers, who are currently in full training, ahead of their upcoming Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, where they hope to raise over 100k for RNIB and the Severn Hospice.
The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge is a 3000 mile race from the Canary Islands to Antigua.
Wrekin-Rowers have also released a short promotional video which featues audio description, click here to listen
Keep up to date with the latest news and events at www.wrekin-rowers.com
Image - Wrekin Rowers logo. An image of a boat with four people inside and underneath the words Wreckin Rowers. The words are written in a pale blue, against a darker blue background, which gives the impression the boat is at sea. there is also the outline of a wave above them.
Sports Reporter Tom Burton looks back at some of the Highlight's of the 2021 Paralympic Games in Tokyo, which saw ParalympicsGB finish second in the medals table, amassing 124 medals, including 41 golds.
Congratulations to all the athletes that have competed so splendidly at Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games!
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With more medals coming in for the Paralympics GB team out in Tokyo, here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with GB medal winners.
Our Toby Davey recently caught up with visually impaired Ellen Buttrick and the rest of the Paralympics GB Mixed Coxed 4 rowing team to chat with them about their fantastic Gold medal winning final race.
The team began by introducing themselves and explaining their role in the mixed coxed 4 boat from Ollie Stanhope - Stroke, James Fox, Ellen Buttrick (VI) Bow, Giedre Rakauskaite to their cox Erin Kennedy. The team talk about the pressures and expectation they were under going into the final race tipped for Gold medal as GBR have not been beaten at a world championships since 2010 with Gold in London and Rio respectively. Erin talked about their game plan for their final race ware they finished 11 seconds ahead of Silver medallists USA. Ellen described how it was for her out on the water for that final race as the visually impaired member of the crew. The Team also talked about how they had to train and compete in very different circumstances due to the delay of the Tokyo Paralympic Games and the restrictions due to Covid. Congratulations again to Ellen and the rest of the Paralympics GB Mixed Coxed 4 Rowing Team from everyone here at the RNIB. To find out more about getting into rowing as a visually impaired or disabled person do visit the British Rowing website below or search in your browser for British Adaptive Rowing.
https://www.britishrowing.org
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
With more medals coming in for the Paralympics GB team out in Tokyo, here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with GB visually impaired medal winners.
Our Toby Davey recently caught up with Aileen McGlynn and her pilot Helen Scott to chat with them about their Paralympic Silver Medal in the 1000M Time Trial.
Aileen and Helen won their Silver medal after only teaming up together twelve weeks prior to flying out to Japan for the Tokyo Paralympic Games.
Aileen began by describing to Toby their final Silver medal winning time trial and a real achievement for them both with a short time training together prior to Tokyo. Helen talked about how they gelled together both on and off the tandem and how they had to put past Paralympics experiences behind them and concentrate on Tokyo.
They also shared their thoughts on how the Paralympic GB VI Cyclists have done in the velodrome and whether they will be going for Paris in 2024.
Congratulations again Aileen and Helen on that Paralympic Silver medal from everyone here at the RNIB.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
As the Tokyo Paralympics get underway here on RNIB Connect Radio we are catching up with GB visually impaired medal winners.
Our Toby Davey recently caught up with Steve Bate and Adam Duggleby who won the first visually impaired GB Team medal with a Silver in the tandem 4,000m individual pursuit final.
Steve began by telling Toby what that final race was like and not bad at all coming away with a Silver medal. Adam gave a brief outline of how they had done in the first few races of the games and what it is like racing in the stadium with just a few people in the crowd and how of course it would be great to have a larger crowd there, but it is what it is.
Steve mentioned that their Silver medal would fit nicely at home in his medal cabinet along with his other Paralympic Gold and Bronze medals and how they were both looking forward to their next event in their favoured race the time trial where they are current World Champions.
Congratulations Steve and Adam from everyone here at the RNIB.
(Image shows RNIB logo. 'RNIB' written in black capital letters over a white background and underlined with a bold pink line, with the words 'See differently' underneath)
As the Paralympics get underway in Tokyo, we are hearing from Paralympians from across the years who are sharing their thoughts on what will no doubt be a very different event this time around.
RNIB Connect Radio's Steven Scott spoke to visually impaired Judo champion Marc Powell who took part in the London 2012 games, to find out his views on this year’s event.
You can follow the Paralympic Games on Channel 4 from the opening ceremony, the catch-up show ’Today at Tokyo’, ’The Last Leg’, and the closing ceremony. With enhanced audio commentary for the ceremonies and audio description for ’Today at Tokyo’ and ’The Last Leg’.
For full details visit: https://paralympics.channel4.com/
Image shows Marc dressed in his judogi at the 2012 London Paralympic Games.
David Clarke, RNIB Director of Services is a footballing legend.
Here he talks to RNIB about the highlights of his football career and the role he played in the opening ceremony of the 2012 Summer Paralympics in London.
Image is of an RNIB football, with David Clarke's signature below the RNIB logo.
Have you been inspired by Sky Brown and the other fabulous skateboarders at the Tokyo2020 Olympic Games?
Would you love to give it a try but are perhaps worried that being visually impaired will make it impossible?
Well, today we're joined by blind skater Dan Mancina, who not only wants to do away with negative perceptions of visual impairment, but also hopes to get adaptive skateboarding into the 2028 Paralympics.
You can follow @danthemancina on Instagram and can listen to 'Insighted with Dan Mancina' wherever you get your podcasts.
Image shows Dan mid-trick, flying above his skateboard, his cane lifted high and pointing at the sky.
Photo credit: RED BULL CONTENT POOL / JACOB LEWKOW
With the Tokyo Paralympic Games just around the corner here on RNIB Connect Radio we have been chatting with blind and partially sighted Paralympians, sportsmen and sportswomen to gage their thoughts on the Games and how visually impaired members of the GB Paralympic Team may fare in Tokyo.
Our Toby Davey caught up with Naomi Riches MBE, London 2012 Paralympic Adaptive Rowing Gold medal winner for her thoughts on the games and how Naomi thinks GB visually impaired athletes might do out in Tokyo.
Toby began by taking Naomi back to the start line of the GB Adaptive Rowing Teams final race of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Naomi explained to Toby how quiet it was on the start line with just the sounds of ores on the water but her heart pounding inside her body. Toby then asked Naomi What it was like winning Gold in front of a home crowd and Naomi recalled how she could not hear much around her at the time with all the noise of the crowd and it took one of her team mates to tap her on the shoulder and tell her that they had finished the race and won the Gold medal.
Naomi shared with Toby the advice she would give to Ellen Buttrick visually impaired member of the GB Adaptive Rowing Team out in Tokyo as they get ready to compete on the water And Naomi’s thoughts on how the other visually impaired athletes might fare in Tokyo especially without the crowds in the stadiums.
You can follow all the events during the Tokyo Paralympic Games including the opening and closing ceremonies with enhanced audio descriptive commentary and audio described versions of the Paralympic catch-up show ‘Today at Tokyo’ and ‘The Last Leg' with more details on the Channel 4 website - https://paralympics.channel4.com
The Tokyo Paralympic Games are just around the corner and once again for blind and partially sighted people Channel 4 will be providing access of their coverage of the games through audio description by RedBe Media.
Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Rachel Yendoll, Head of Content Management at Channel 4 and Red Bee Media Audio Describer George Rose to find out what will be on offer during Channel 4’s coverage of the Tokyo Paralympic Games with audio description for blind and partially sighted people.
Rachel began by explaining to Toby why it is so important for Channel 4 as a broadcaster to provide audio description for both there on air and on demand coverage of the Tokyo Paralympic Games with a brief rundown of the content that is being described from the opening and closing ceremonies to their catch-up show ‘Today at Tokyo’ and of course the ‘Last Leg’ too.
George talked about how both she and the rest of the RedBe Team have been preparing for both the live enhanced audio commentary of the opening and closing ceremonies and the audio description for both ‘Today at Tokyo’ and ‘The Last Leg’, as well as how they’ve been using the coverage of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games to practice for the live opening and closing ceremonies and a lot of research into some of the more specific Paralympic sports such as GoalBall.
You can follow the Paralympic Games on Channel 4 from the opening ceremony, the catch-up show ’Today at Tokyo’, ’The Last Leg’ to the closing ceremony with enhanced audio commentary for the ceremonies and audio description for ’Today at Tokyo’ and ’The Last Leg’, for full details visit the Channel 4 Paralympics website - https://paralympics.channel4.com
With the Tokyo Paralympic Games just around the corner here on RNIB Connect Radio we have been chatting with blind and partially sighted Paralympians, sportsmen and sportswomen to gage their thoughts on the Games and how visually impaired members of the GB Paralympic Team may fare in Tokyo.
Our Toby Davey caught up with Mike Brace CBE, former Paralympic Skier and part of the team that brought the Olympic and Paralympic Games to London in 2012 for his thoughts on the games and how he thinks GB visually impaired athletes might do out in Tokyo.
Toby began by taking Mike back to the days when he competed as a visually impaired skier to find out first hand what it was like waiting on the start line for the gun or in Mike's case the countdown to signal the start of the race.
Mike talked about how different the Paralympic Games were back in his day compared to now with all the Lottery funding and all the media and social media pressure that visually impaired athletes are under today.
Mike also shared a few names of some of the visually impaired members of the GB Paralympic Team to look out for in Tokyo during the Games.
You can follow all the events during the Tokyo Paralympic Games including the opening and closing ceremonies with enhanced audio descriptive commentary and audio described Paralympic catch-up shows and The Last Leg with audio description on Channel 4's on demand catch up visiting the Channel 4 website -
https://paralympics.channel4.com
(Image shows Mike dressed for skiing with a number 65 vest on)
Scottish blind golfer Barry McCluskey recently took part in the Lawrence Levy British Masters blind golf event which was held in Coleford, England.
RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with him to find out more about the event and also about Barry's busy schedule, which includes preparing for the upcoming British Open.
{image: Photograph of Barry crouching down on the golf course. He is holding a flag, with a putter in his other hand and he is smiling at the camera. Barry is dressed in a grey top and grey trousers and is wearing a baseball style cap}
Lora Fachie, MBE is a four time gold medal winning para-cyclist who is due to compete in the upcoming Paralympic Games in Tokyo.
Can Laura add to her impressive medals haul this time around?
She has been talking to RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell
{Image: Close up shot of Lora Fachie and her pilot, Corrine Hall tandem cycling with huge smiles on their faces}
Barry Snell chats to RNIB presenter Roger Cole about his love of blind golf.
Roger has been playing for more than ten years and feels it has really boosted his health & wellbeing.
He would also encourage more blind and partially sighted people giving it a try.
If you would like to find out more about blind golf and links to your nearest clubs click on the link below
https://www.internationalblindgolf.com
Image: A close up of a golfer on the green, ready to stroke the ball. You can only see them from the ankle down as it is a close up of the ball and putter. They are wearing a purple and white golf shoe and white trousers.
The charity British Blind Sport (BBS) is about to host its second face to face taster day in Hull on Saturday 7th August 2021.
If you're blind or partially sighted, why not come along and try out some sports and leisure activities in a safe and fun environment?
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to David Melville, from BBS, to hear more about the event and what's on.
If you'd like more info, go to www.britishblindsport.org.uk
RNIBConnect
Image shows children practicing hitting bright green balls with blue and red baseball bats.
If you live in Scotland and are blind or partially sighted, did you know that you can join others and learn to play golf and take part in tournaments and social gatherings?
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Sam Sloan, Scottish Captain, to learn more about the game and the offer of some free taster days.
The first sessions will be on Friday 30th July in Coatbridge and Monday 2nd August in Stirling.
All are welcome and you can register at enquiries@scottishblindgolf.com or find out more by visiting www.scottishblindgolf.com
RNIBConnect
Image shows a close up of a golf club about to send a ball flying over a grassy field and towards a red flag marked hole. The Blind Golf Scotland logo is visible in the upper left corner.
Gavin Towers may be partially sighted but he's decided to take on a record breaking challenge and raise funds for RNIB and Save The Children.
He's going to cycle around the UK and attempt to break the decades old record at the same time as raising money.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Gavin to learn more about the challenge and why he's chosen these charities.
Keep up to date on the challenge by going to www.gavintowerscycling.com
You can make a donation by visiting https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=GavinTowers&pageUrl=1
RNIBConnect
Image: Gavin on his bike
Megan Smithson-Booth is 19 years old and a student at the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford.
For the past 2 years, alongside her studies, she's become a rising star in Goalball, representing GB in tournaments around the UK and as far flung as Australia.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Megan to learn more about her love of the game, her hopes for the future and why it's a great sport for people to get involved in.
RNIBConnect
Image: Goalball UK logo
RNIB has received £1m in funding from Sport England to be used over three years to get more blind and partially sighted people involved in sport. The charity is partnering up with British Blind Sport to deliver the new initiative called See Sport Differently. Steven Scott has been speaking to one of the people who developed the campaign, RNIB’s Steve Packer.
Image shows RNIB logo. RNIB written in bold capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Written underneath are the words: 'See differently'.
We've been talking a little bit about fishing lately on RNIB Connect Radio and with the weather improving we thought it could be great to bring in some experts and learn their secrets to getting that best catch. Wayne Vowden from the Blind Angler channel and Joe from Essex Foraging an Fishing Channel spoke with our Paulina Kuchorew about coastal fishing and an upcoming live-stream event that will see the two go reel to reel in a big Coastal fish-off event.
Round 2 of Coastal Combat will take place Sunday 4th of July. For more information follow 'Blind Angler' and 'Essex Foraging an Fishing' on YouTube.
Image shows a pile of Coastal Combat stickers.
Are you interested in fishing, or would like to find out a little bit more about it from a fellow blind angler?
On Sunday 7th of March at 8PM, The Blind Angler channel will hold a live Q & A event to help answer all of your burning questions, offer some advice, and chat all-things-fishing!
Wayne Vowden, the Blind Angler himself spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew about the free event and how to take part.
For more information find 'The Blind Angler' on Facebook or YouTube.
Can beatboxing and breakdancing aid accessibility?
Rationale Arts are a charity formed in 2019 after identifying a need for art to be made equally accessible to both disabled and non-disabled members of the community. The group offers a variety of classes and workshops, from accessible dance lessons for the visually impaired, which utilise beatbox-inspired audio description, to community engagement programs.
RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew spoke with Rationale Arts artistic director Nathan Geering and trustee of the group Vignesh Murali, to find out more about the charity's work.
For more information about Sight Specific Moves Dance Course: www.rationalearts.com
(Photo: Nathan Geering mid-breakdancing, holding himself up on one hand legs and arms spread wide/ Credit: Tim Thumb)
Measures such as social distancing have turned the world upside down for people with sight loss affecting many areas of life including sport and activity.
But as things eventually adapt to the new normal, Birmingham Goalball Club hopes to encourage people living with a disability to keep active and give goalball a go through their Fitness for Life initiative.
Chair of the club, Mohammed Ahmed spoke with us about the project.
For more information email: birmingham.bgc@outlook.com or follow the club on twitter @bhamgoalball1
Have you ever heard of sport nunchaku?
We found out that one of RNIB Connect – South West members, Mark Perry has recently given this unique sport a go and we caught up with him to hear more.
Mark spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew about the experience and how he manages to continue his lessons in lockdown.
For more information about Sport Nunchaku visit: www.snuk.org.uk
(Image shows Mark and his sensei Rich. Mark is holding up a certificate and has bright yellow nunchucks around the back of his neck. Rich has his arm proudly around him)
(Part one of this discussion is available here https://audioboom.com/posts/7496669-libby-clegg-talks-dancing-on-ice)
Are you a sporting fan? Do you love catching up with Dancing on Ice every Sunday? RNIB Connect Radio's Sophie Ewing caught up with sportswoman, Libby Clegg as she competes in this year competition. In the second part of their conversation Libby discusses motherhood, turning thirty, winning Gold Medals and why you should See Sport Differently in 2020.
Read all about Libby in our Connect News & Stories on the website https://www.rnib.org.uk/connect-community/connect-news-and-stories/libby-clegg-MBE
Are you a sporting fan? Do you love catching up with Dancing on Ice every Sunday? Perhaps you are a someone living with sight loss who has no skating experience, but would like to try something new. RNIB Connect Radio's Sophie Ewing caught up with sportswoman, Libby Clegg as she competes in this year competition. Libby talks all things Dancing on Ice, taking on this challenge whilst having Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy, alongside prepping for the Tokyo Paralympics.
Read all about Libby in our Connect News & Stories on the website https://www.rnib.org.uk/connect-community/connect-news-and-stories/libby-clegg-MBE
Cam Sight provides tandem cycling for people with low vision and blindness in Cambridge and March areas. We spoke with Sam Wool from the charity to find out more about the scheme. Sam spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. For more information go to: https://www.camsight.org.uk/sports-and-leisure
After going blind at the age of 39 and spiralling into depression,
a Ballymena man thought his life was over... until he found blind golf.
Earlier this year, Drew Cochrane released his autobiography detailing his diagnosis, the subsequent depression, and most importantly, how his sight loss opened up a world new adventures.
To read more of Drew's life and golfing success, be sure to get a hold of 'From the Carry Row to Tokyo: The Life of Cullybackey Man Drew Cochrane'
The British Premier League started again recently so RNIB Connect Radio’s Basil Oxtoby spoke to two of the RNIB’s directors who are both avid football fans for a special in depth look at how they watch football from a blind and partially sighted perspective.
The London Marathon, one of the most iconic events on the British sporting calendar, is taking place this weekend with an estimated 40,000 runners taking part. Andy Winn recently spoke to Sundip Tailor, who will be in Sunday's race, and is raising money for the RNIB.
If you'd like to sponsor Sundip, you can do at this link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sundip-tailor
All of the runners raising money for the RNIB have put so much into their training and fundraising and would love your support to spur them on to the finish. If you're close to the London area and you are planning to go along to the race to cheer runners like Sundip on, the RNIB has two dedicated cheer points where you can don a t-shirt, shake a pompom and support everyone in the race - they can be found at :
Mile 13 - The Highway/Tower Hill
Mile 25 - Embankment
More information can be found here: https://www.rnib.org.uk/virgin-money-london-marathon
If you're unable to be there, you can follow all the action on social media using #TeamRNIB.
"We've had people come for the first time, they've not really seen or heard of VI tennis before - they try it, you see them succeed, and they become regular customers - it's quite exciting."
This morning on The Daily Connect we caught up with Metro Blind Sport, and heard from players, coaches and volunteers at a recent VI tennis tournament in London.
Join the conversation with your thoughts on VI Sports, by chatting to us on all of our social media channels or emailing radio@rnib.org.uk #RNIBConnect #TheDailyConnect
Recent statistics from the RNIB have shown that 64% of visually impaired people would like to be more physically active, but 57% felt that their sight loss was a barrier to being physically active.
On today's Daily Connect, we chat to Martin Symcox from London-based charity Metro Blind Sport, about trying new sports if you are blind or partially sighted, and overcoming the barriers that come with it.
Tried a new sport in the last year? Or are you thinking of trying one in 2019? Let us know; we'd love to hear from you. Join the conversation! #RNIBConnect #TheDailyConnect
See My Voice is a project run by British Blind Sport, to help young blind and partially sighted people develop skills that can help their social, educational and vocational development. Although BBS is a sporting charity, you don't have to participate in sporting activities to get involved, there are complimentary avenues to develop skills that don't need running shoes! RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Lijana Kazio to learn more about the training on offer and the deadlines for applicants... #RNIBConnect
The 2018 curling season has started and there’s now a club which offers disabled people the chance to get onto the ice. Scottish Disability Golf and Curling offers free training, regular matches, national and international competition opportunities to those who want to try the winter sport, while the golf clubs take a rest. RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to charity Secretary Jim Gales to learn more about the sport and how you can play for fun or at a competitive level… #RNIBConnect
The charity British Blind Sport promotes inclusion and access to a whole host of sporting opportunities for blind and partially sighted people.
Their highly successful Have A Go taster days give people the chance to try a wide range of sports and leisure activities that they may think are not accessible. Cardiff will host an event on Saturday 29th September 2018 and you can try sports like Judo and acoustic shooting, and if you like what you try, they can point you in the direction of a local club for you to continue participation.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Alex Pitts to find out more… #RNIBConnect
How do you put your life back in order, when sight loss hits you so suddenly and unexpectedly?
Four years ago, Steven Birkin lost his sight and with it, he had to learn how to regain his independence.
Now, Steve has turned his life around and earlier this year won his first silver medal for Team GB at the British Taekwondo International Poomsae Championships in London.
Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Steve explains what lead him to pick up taekwondo after losing his sight.
RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell speaks to Steve Sparkes and Mick Dawson, the two-man crew of the Cockleshell Pacific Endeavor, who have just created their own unique piece of sporting history.
Scottish Disability Golf and Curling provides opportunities for individuals, including blind and partially sighted people, to learn, practice and compete on the golf course and curling rink. The organisation can now provide free tuition for those who want to play for fun or compete on a local or global level. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales, Secretary, to learn more about the charity and how people can play for fun or competativly in their local area and beyond, if they wish... @RNIBConnect
The World Blind Match Racing Championships 2018, are being held in Scotland this year, with teams coming from across the globe to compete. The blind and partially sighted sailors will use audio technology to independently race for medals on the water, near Helensburgh. RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to some of the organisers, hosts and sailors to learn more about the sport and just how you can race on the water, without sight… #RNIBConnect
British Blind Sport encourages visually impaired people to get involved in a huge variety of sporting activities and with the help of other organisations, provides support to trainers, gyms and other sporting venues to improve accessibility and inclusion.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Logan Gray, from BBS, to learn more about a programme to help sporting professionals understand sight loss and a project which supports parents with blind or partially sighted children, gain confidence in sporting activities...
RNIBConnect
Blind Dave reflects on his recent Colour Run, which saw hundreds of runners doused from head-to-toe in colour as they made their way around Sandwell Valley Country Park,
The event, now in it's second year, is staged by the Albion Foundation to recognise the tremendous achievements of Blind Dave.
RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley caught up with Dave to get a taste of the evnts exciting moments.
There are few activities that sighted and non sighted people can enjoy on equal footing. Bill Foster thinks that sailing is one of them. He’s just returned from a trip aboard the Lord Nelson with the Jubilee Sailing Trust and tells us why he loves it so much.
http://jst.org.uk/
One of Britain's all time greatest athletes Sir Steve Redgrave talks to RNIB Connect Radio about his new role as ambassador for the charity and Specsavers....
Are you visually impaired and perhaps thought that some sports, like archery, would forever be unattainable for you?
Well, you might want to think again.
British Blind Archery Champion Stuart Rodgers and his mentor and Coach Rick Smith tell us more about the sport and why more people should give it a go.
Stuart and Rick are chatting to RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.
For more information on the Louth and District Archery Club visit: https://lincolnshire.fsd.org.uk/kb5/lincs/fsd/service.page?id=yCkfuOC-IGk
(photo: Stuart wearing black glasses and holding his bow stands next to his coach Rick, who had an arm around Stuart and is beaming with pride)
[photo credit: Louth Leader]
The charity British Blind Sport work hard to make sporting opportunities accessible, and available, for blind and partially sighted people.
They also host "Have A Go Day" events to give people a taste of different activities.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Alex Pits, from BBS, to learn more about an event taking place in Oxfordshire on the 25th of June 2018.
#RNIBConnect
Metro Blind Sports helps to provide a wide range of sporting opportunities for visually impaired people in, and around, the London area.
They also team up with other sporting, national, bodies to promote accessible sport and exercise.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Roy Smith, from Metro Blind Sport, to learn more about the charity and a sporting event, open to all, coming up in June 2018...
RNIBConnect
The 2018 World Blind Match Racing Championships will be held on Scotland's west coast, hosted by the Royal Northern and Clyde Yacht Club, at Helensburgh.
Teams of visually impaired sailors from around the globe will battle it out on the water, going for Gold!
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to the organisers, the hosts and some of the sailors, aiming for glory…
RNIBConnect
The Visually Impaired Sailing Association GB (VISA GB) is dedicated to helping more blind and partially sighted people enjoy sailing, for fun and for competition.
They run taster days and longer voyages, even linking up with other established sailing regattas, to help people get a taste for the popular pastime.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Colin Fowler, to learn more about the association and to let people know about a forthcoming event this summer…
RNIBConnect
Robert Stuzer never thought he would get to meet his birth family.
In fact, having been raised by his adopted family, the man didn’t even entertain the idea of meeting his birth parents. At least not until a few years ago, that is…
After being diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare genetic disorder that involves permanent changes to vision, Robert set out on a search for long lost family in hopes that his children wouldn’t inherit the illness.
This unexpected journey lead him all the way to Ireland, were Robert created some surprising bonds, one of which had Rob and his new-found cousin, Emer McCormack, running together in the 2018 London Marathon to raise funds for the RNIB charity.
Speaking to RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Robert tells us more about this moving family reunion, life after sight loss, and how much he wants to give back to the community that helped him.
If like Robert, you would like to support people with sight loss and run in London Marathon 2019, you can register for a place with Team RNIB by visiting: http://www.rnib.org.uk/donations-and-fundraising
You might like sport, or may never tried it because you didn't think you would like it?
Well, the English Institute for Sport has launched it's Discover Your Gold programme, to find Paralympians of the future.
There's a whole host of help, training and developmental support on offer and it starts with a click on a website.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Henry Shiplee, from EIS, to learn more about discovering talent.
#RNIBConnect
Find out how blind and visually impaired people can take part in a special cricket event on Tuesday May 1st.
Alan North has been visually impaired since childhood, but that didn’t stop him in excelling where others told him he would fail.
A swimming coach for almost 30 years now, Alan manages his own swim school as well as provides training in First Aid and Lifesaving.
Chatting to RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Alan tells us exactly why it’s important not to give up when you lose your sight and how his blindness has helped him provide classes for other visually impaired people.
If you would like to get in touch with Alan, you can do so by calling him on: 07970 298 019 or by emailing to: north-alan@sky.com
Scottish Disability Golf and Curling encourages and supports people with a range of disabilities to take part in the sports.
They provide grants for professional tuition, club competitions and the chance to compete on the international stage, if you wish to grow your competitive side.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales, from SDGC, to learn more about the accessible sports and some of the recent tournaments.
#RNIBConnect
British Blind Sport promotes and encourages participation in a variety of sports to visually impaired people, of all ages and abilities.
They run different sports clubs and work with, both private and public, organisations to make their services and facilities inclusive and accessible.
On April 29th, they will be holding a taster day, featuring a variety of sports, in Cambridge and everyone is invited to come along.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Alex Pits, from BBS, to find out what's in store for visitors to try out...
#RNIBConnect
A new website has been launched to help match up blind and partially sighted people with sighted guide runners by England Athletic and British Blind Sport.
At the moment the site only covers England but it will, in the future, roll out across the UK.
www.findaguide.co.uk
Whether you want a run in the park or something more challenging, the site helps match visually impaired people with trained, and police checked, sighted enthusiasts.
RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Gary Perryman, a sighted guide, and Samantha Leftwich, a visually impaired runner.
#RNIBConnect
Blind and partially-sighted people have always loved their sport, whether it's football or rugby, tennis or golf.
But is sport fully accessible to blind people?
David Tanner who's reported on sport for both TV and radio for many years and provides audio described commentary, looks at how the service differs between sports, finds out how blind fans feel about the service they receive, and if there is any way it can be improved further….
Ex-RAF veteran Garry Morrison was injured in a parachute accident and had to learn to walk again. Then, after contracting chicken pox, he went totally blind.
Garry had not climbed in 12 years but as part a week’s stay at Blind Veteran's UK Llandudno centre he was encouraged to try climbing.
He found it was something he could do, enjoyed doing, and actually was very good at.
RNIB's Barry Snell hears how the 36-year-old now has plans for Tokyo 2020's Paralympics.
If you're keen to up your level of fitness and you live in the Bristol area, you might be interested to know about a new club that has been launched recently.
The Visually Impaired Running Group which aims to get you from the couch to running a 5k takes place every Wednesday.
There is a team of UK Athletics trained running guides based in Bristol who are able to help and support you.
RNIB's Sophie Fox went for a run with the club on a rather dark Wednesday night to find out more about the club and how it got started.
For more information and to take part follow this link https://www.rnib.org.uk/community/south-west/visually-impaired-running-group-bristol-couch-5k-course
The 2018 Winter Paralympics closed with a spectacular ceremony in Pyeongchang.
Skier Menna Fitzpatrick and her guide Jen Kehoe, who won Britain's only gold of the Games, led the team into the ceremony in South Korea.
The pair were given the honour after they claimed victory earlier on Sunday in the visually-impaired slalom to become GB's most successful Winter Paralympians of all time, thanks to their haul of one gold medal, two silvers and a bronze.
Millie Knight and guide Brett Wild also finished their Games on a high with bronze in the slalom to add to their two silvers from the downhill and super-G.
It meant the team hit their UK Sport medal target of at least seven medals for their biggest winter medal haul since 1984 and since Lottery funding was introduced in the 1990s.
Shaun Donovan lost his sight from an early age but has always been fascinated by tennis.
He started out playing the sport as a leisure activity but is now playing at a competitive level and now encourages other blind and partially sighted people to come along and try out the game.
Vision Tennis Sessions are held at Swansea Tennis Centre every Thursday throughout the year.
RNIB's Lynne Morgan spoke to Shaun to find out more about why he got into the sport.
Find out more about the sessions here http://www.wcb-ccd.org.uk/single_post.php?var=2133