Gold medal hero Mickey Bushell handed lottery booster
Shropshire's Paralympic hero Mickey Bushell was this afternoon on the road to Rio 2016 after being guaranteed the top level of National Lottery funding for the next 12 months.
The 22-year-old from Telford was named as part of the World Class Performance Podium Programme for 2013 after his stunning gold medal in the T53 category at London last month.
It is understood the highest level of Lottery support runs from around £13,000 to £26,000 and is in addition to non-financial help like access to coaches, facilities, medical staff and training camps.
And Bushell’s father Peter admitted it was a major boost to his son’s hopes of remaining at the top of his sport as he prepares to embark on another gruelling four year cycle.
“It’s a huge help for all the athletes,” said Bushell senior.
“It’s everything which comes with it in terms of the access to the best medical advice, physios and nutritionists which is the main thing.
“As long as he stays injury-free, Mickey will be in Rio. He is fully committed to it and has got goals he wants to reach.”
And there is a chance that Bushell – who is about to embark on winter training – may try his hand at longer distances.
“Mickey may consider going into 800m and 1,500m,” added his father.
Meanwhile, Paula Radcliffe has paid the price for yet another summer of Olympic heartache by having her funding withdrawn.
The marathon world record holder headed a group of senior athletes who have been removed from the programme announced by UK Athletics.
The 39-year-old has competed just once this year over any distance.
But Radcliffe this afternoon insisted she did plan to continue in athletics.
Dwain Chambers remains without Lottery funding despite being allowed back into the Olympic fold.
High jump bronze medallist Robbie Grabarz has been promoted to podium funding, along with world junior 100m champion Adam Gemili.