Two Inverkeithing youngsters inspired by Team GB’s incredible success in the Olympics and Paralympics are hoping to make their own dreams of competing on an international stage come true.
Sport for Finlay and Skye Davidson, who have a rare form of dwarfism, had never been on a level playing field until they joined the Dwarf Sports Association UK, where they have competed for the past few years alongside people with the same condition.
Finlay, 11, and Skye, 7, have achondroplasia, which means they are around half the size of their friends the same age.
Despite their short stature, the pair have always been focused on their ability — not their disability — and have been training to join Team GB in the 7th World Dwarf Games in Canada next August.
As mum Hailey explained, funding remains the main obstacle, with athletes taking part needing at least £2,000 to attend.
“When Finlay and Skye were very young we found and joined the Dwarf Sports Association UK and since then have never looked back,” she told The Courier.
“By joining this charity it enabled them to meet other people with dwarfism and to take part in sports we thought they could never do.
“The Dwarf Sports Association hosts its National Games every year in May and also runs regions around the country — I am the regional leader for Scotland.
“They use sport as the tool to create positivity and confidence into the lives of people with dwarfism, and it gives Finlay and Skye the opportunity to compete on an equal level in their chosen sport.”
Swimmer Ellie Simmonds OBE, who herself has dwarfism, is the association’s patron, and her recent success in the pool in Rio has no doubt strengthened the family’s resolve to reach the fundraising target needed to send the family across the Atlantic next summer.
“Since joining these games over the years my children have been given the opportunity to try many different sports and they take part in athletics, swimming, boccia, and many other events,” Hailey added.
“They have grown in confidence and abilities and it has been fantastic to see.”
Both Finlay and Skye have already started fundraising, with Finlay due to do a sponsored cycle with his dad from Inverkeithing to Aberdour on October 16.
Various other events are in the pipeline, while a Justgiving page has also been established to help send Finlay and Skye on their way.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so via www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/FinlayandSkyetakeontheWorlds.
