On Track For Golden Dream
Paralympic swimming champion Dervis Konuralp has come a step closer to his dream of bringing home a Gold medal.
The Hackney hero set a new British record for the 100m butterfly, and edged nearer to securing his place at Beijing 2008.
Dervis finished the race in an amazing one minute, two seconds and 48 hundredths of a second at the first of two trials to qualify for Team GB.
The 27-year-old athlete, who trains at London Fields Lido and Clissold Leisure Centre, will take part in final selection trials at the end of April.
Dervis, who has lived in Hackney all his life, said he was inspired by London becoming the host for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“It is my ultimate ambition to bring back the ‘big G’ from the Paralympics. I’m continuing to train hard before the next trials and will give it my all – as I always do,” he said.
Dervis, who has a visual impairment, is also an Olympic and Paralympic ambassador, visiting schools and community events across the borough to inspire young people to get involved in sports.
He added: “Sport is so accessible for children and is another means of achievement for them. It has helped me so much and I hope it can do the same for other young people. The 2012 Games can inspire people of all ages and abilities to start getting active now.”
Kim Wright, Hackney Council’s Corporate Director for Community Services, said: “I’m delighted Dervis did so well at the first trials for Beijing 2008 and wish him the best of luck in qualifying for Team GB.
“He is a talented athlete who trains extremely hard and is also a great role model for our young residents.”
Page updated: 1 May 2008