Wiltshire teenager takes on kayaking challenge for Children in Need

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 28 Oct, 05:59 · Archive

Ana, 16, from Wiltshire, is undertaking a three-day kayaking challenge at Dorney Lake to raise funds for BBC Children in Need. She is part of The One Show's Challenge Squad, a group of four young people taking on endurance challenges to support the charity. Her challenge was announced on The One Show on 27 October.

Ana was diagnosed with Perthes disease, which caused her to lose her ability to walk independently. She now uses a wheelchair and crutches. The condition affected not only her mobility but also her confidence and mental wellbeing, removing her from the active lifestyle she enjoyed.

Her return to sport began with Nova Sports, a project funded by BBC Children in Need, where she discovered wheelchair basketball. With their support, she regained her confidence and now plays wheelchair basketball for England.

Inspired by her journey, Ana is taking on the three-day kayaking challenge to raise funds and help other young people access the same opportunities that changed her life. ParalympicsGB wheelchair basketball star Robyn Love announced the challenge in a video message, describing it as an 'epic kayaking marathon at Dorney Lake', the site of the London 2012 Paralympics and Olympics.

Robyn Love said: 'Your story really resonates with me, and it's so special to hear how sport has had such a positive impact in your life. There was no doubt that your challenge has to push you outside your comfort zone. You'll be doing it across three gruelling days. It's going to be cold, wet, and incredibly tough.'

Alex Johnson, chief executive of Nova Sports, said: 'Funding from BBC Children in Need has enabled us to support even more disabled children and young people through the power of sport and physical activity.'

How it is being reported

• Wiltshire teenager takes on three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedA teenager is taking on a three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedSwindon Advertiser · 28 Oct, 05:00
• Wiltshire teenager takes on three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedA teenager is taking on a three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedThis Is Wiltshire · 28 Oct, 05:00
• Wiltshire teenager takes on three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedA teenager is taking on a three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedWiltshire Times · 28 Oct, 05:00
• Wiltshire teenager takes on three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedA teenager is taking on a three-day kayaking challenge for Children in NeedGazette & Herald · 28 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Ana · BBC Children in Need · The One Show · Robyn Love · Nova Sports · Dorney Lake · Wiltshire · England

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