A West Bridgford opticians has stepped in to support local canoe slalom athlete Reilly Vernon with his journey to the European and World Championships.
Specsavers on Central Avenue is sponsoring the 21-year-old Nottingham University sports scholar for the second time, having previously supported the aspiring athlete in 2020.
Reilly has been training in canoe slalom since 2014. Earlier this year he competed at the Pyrenees Cup in La Seu D’Urgell in Spain and was subsequently selected to represent Ireland at the U23 European Championships in Bratislava in July. This August he heads onto the World Championships in Krakow, Poland.
Reilly has also been supported locally through the Rushcliffe Elite Sports Grant and County Councillor Jonathan Wheeler, West Bridgford South Division.
‘As an unfunded athlete and full-time student there are many obstacles in competing at an elite level,’ says Reilly.
‘I’m very thankful to Specsavers and the local council for their support and backing which now enables me to travel to these competitions and make the most of this opportunity.’
West Bridgford store director Stephen Rogers said:
‘We’re delighted to be supporting Reilly again.
“He’s an inspiration and a great role model for other young sporting hopefuls out there.
“We’re super proud to be part of his sponsorship team and look forward to following his progress.’
“Canoe slalom is a fast-paced sport, demanding skill, stamina and strength.
“Paddlers need to navigate fast and challenging water currents whilst navigating a sequence of gates.
“If you touch a pole, a 2-second penalty is added to your time whereas if you miss a gate or go through in the wrong direction a 50 second penalty is added. The aim is to be fast and clean.
To find out more, pop into the store at 25/27 Central Ave, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 5GQ, call 0115 969 4830 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/westbridgford.
