Story added: 3rd March 2016

Paralympian talks about training, wellbeing and preparing for Rio 2016!

Members of the Community Sports Foundation’s (CSF) Extra Time group were treated to a visit from Paralympian and CSF Ambassador Jessica-Jane Applegate yesterday morning.

The over 55’s group enjoyed a mixture of sports including volleyball and tennis before meeting at Carrow Park for their final social hour of the current block.

Jessica answered questions on various topics and gave the group a fascinating insight into her training and competition experiences.

The swimmer, who is originally from Great Yarmouth, qualified for the Summer Paralympics in 2012 where she won a gold medal in the S14 200m freestyle and set a Paralympics record. Shortly after her triumph, she was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2013 New Year Honours list for services to swimming.

One hot topic on all the Extra-Timer’s minds was the upcoming Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, which Jessica will be aiming to qualify for in April.

Jess explained:

“I’ll be training hard and will be aiming to peak at the major events this year, the first of which is in April.”

After answering questions, Jessica, who was crowned ‘British Paralympic Swimmer’ of the year in 2015, talked to the group about being a CSF ambassador and giving something back.

CSF Extra Time Co-ordinator, Pete Brown, said:

“We really enjoyed meeting Jessica today, it was brilliant and very uplifting to hear about her experiences and recent achievements.”

“We all wish her the best for Rio 2016 this year, we’ll be keenly following her progress!”

CSF have been delivering the Extra Time project since 2008, engaging both men and women aged 55+ in weekly physical and social sessions.

The group meet on Wednesday mornings where they take part in a sporting activity, followed by a social hour at the Carrow Park. If you require any further information about the programme or would like to join, please click here or contact [email protected].

GALLERY: Have a browse through some photos from the morning here.