Seven Scots named on Para World Class Programme

Tuesday 4th February 2020

Maria Lyle is among seven Scots named by British Athletes for their Para World Class Programme

Seven Scottish Para athletes have been handed support after being offered membership to the Paralympic World Class Programme (WCP) in 2020.

British Athletics have listed 46 athletes in total, with 20 of those being world medallists from the 2019 edition of the World Para Athletics Championships.

Six Scots are named on the Paralympic Podium part of the Programme with places there for Jo Butterfield, Libby Clegg (guide runner: Chris Clarke), Samantha Kinghorn, Maria Lyle, Derek Rae and Stef Reid.

And there is a place for Fife AC endurance athlete, Owen Miller, among those picked for the Paralympic Poidum Potential part of the overall support programme.

It is great news for all involved and we send out congratulations to the athletes, their families and coaches as well as the clubs who have helped them develop over many years.

British Athletics website announcement

‘As we are well into Paralympic year, it is great to announce the 2020 World Class Programme cohort following the late world championships last year,’ said Paula Dunn, Para Athletics Head Coach at British Athletics.

‘Several athletes stepped up last season and have moved up to Podium level, which has been thoroughly deserved, while I’m delighted to welcome five athletes to the WCP at Podium Potential level.

‘My thanks as ever go to the coaches, families and friends who are all part of the crucial support network for the athletes. Without them, it would not be possible.

‘I would also like to extend my thanks to UK Sport and the National Lottery for funding and supporting our world-class programme; their support is incredibly important.’

Sammi Kinghorn at the Great Scottish Run (photo by Bobby Gavin)

Scots on the list (with coaches, clubs):

Paralympic Podium (28):

Jo Butterfield (Phil Peat/Shona Malcolm; Forth Valley Flyers); Libby Clegg (Joe McDonnell; Charnwood); Sammi Kinghorn (Ian Mirfin; Red Star); Maria Lyle (Jamie Bowie; Team East Lothian); Derek Rae (Ron Morrison; Fife); Stef Reid (Aston Moore; Charnwood)

Paralympic Podium Potential (16):

Owen Miller (Steven Doig; Fife)