True Brit!

Move over Bradley Wiggins, Tanni Grey-Thompson, Sarah Storey and Laura Kenny, there’s a new gold medallist on the rostrum now – and she’s one of our own.

After just two years playing the sport, Administrator Helen Thompson was

Wheelchair Rugby World Cup in Paris –and returned with a winner’s medal.

For Thames Valley-based Helen, with and supervisor, it was a dream come true. “I couldn’t believe it when I got the call, especially as I was in the same squad as players younger and far more experienced than me.” wheelchair rugby Paralympic gold medallist Kylie Grimes MBE in the eightpinch myself. I was playing next to such inspirational people, but reminded myself I’d worked incredibly hard to get there.” multiple sclerosis – a lifelong condition

The Berkshire Banshees star’s hard work, Passion and Can Do dedication was tested to the limit in the run-up to the event as she juggled a gruelling training schedule with work.

“I had four long evening training sessions

Stoke Mandeville and Reading.

“It was exhausting being back in work early the next morning. I had to push myself to get better while not no one noticed me yawning.”

Helen, who still has her original battered wheelchair, adds: “Driving and playing on top of my day job made it hard but singing the anthem with the gold medal in hand made it all worthwhile.”