Rugby stars and a local Olympian inspire youngsters 'to reach for the skies'
By Deborah Bowyer
7th Sep 2024 | Local News
Youngsters had a chance to meet their legends at a special event for under 16s in Sandbach.
A packed Sandbach Town Hall heard presentatations by England rugby stars Ben and Tom Curry and Holmes Chapel Olympic bronze medal winner Emily Ford last week.
Twin brothers, Tom and Ben Curry, who played for Elworth Cricket Club, and Emily Ford were invited by to a special evening at Sandbach Town Hall on Thursday (September 5th).
The three legends shared their success stories with a packed town hall after youngsters had enjoyed a meal of burger and chips and squash.
The Curry twin brothers, who both play for Sale Sharks, told of their rise to fame in the rugby world and how they played for Crewe & Nantwich Rugby Club in their youth after attending Wistaston Church Lane Academy in their youth.
They told of the importance of being "mentally prepared" and advised budding rugby players to "not think about it too much" and "to let yourself just enjoy it".
Tom and Ben outlined their amazing journey from Elworth Cricket Club in Sandbach to the England rugby team. They have toured all over the world, including Japan and New Zealand.
Rower Emily Ford, who achieved bronze for Team GB in the recent Paris Olympics, told of her rise to fame and how she is still in awe.
"Crossing the finishing line and winning a bronze medal was incredible. It wasn't just about the medal - it was about the journey - the resilience and the belief that I could achieve after a set back.
"If you have a set back, let the challenge fuel you to drive forward. The future is there to write still. Don;t let the past define you but help it to shape your future."
But it hasn't always been plain sailing for the talented rower.
"In 2021, I was selected to race in the women's eight at the Tokoyo Olympic Games. This was so exciting and a dream come true ...," said Emily.
"But what should have been the peak of my career was actually one of the hardest moments of my life. We didn't even make it to the final, finishing last. I was devastated and embarrassed by the result."
"It took a full year to discover my passion for rowing again. I found a way back to the sport I loved through time and head space.
"I began to understand that a disappointing result wasn't the end. It was an opportunity to learn and grow. I committed myself to training with a renewed sense of purpose,determined to write my story." And that Emily did - winning a bronze medal for Team GB recently.
Youngsters queued up to have their photographs with the sporting superstars, many getting their shirts, ties and even trainers signed!
And Sandbach Mayor, Councillor Ann Nevitt, who organised the event was delighted with the success of the event "I thought the event was absolutely amazing and the children were buzzing. "
Now a similar occasion for Under 16s may become a regular fixture for Sandbach Town Council to organise.
Mayor, Cllr Nevitt added: Ann Nevitt who spearheaded the event said: "We hope it will inspire other young people in Sandbach to reach for the skies.
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