LEWISPORTE - He's showcased his talent on the provincial scene many times over the last number of years. Now Mike Austin is going to make a run at going national Special Olympics competition.
Mike has been training at the local Ship Shape Fitness Centre once a week in hopes of making the 2010 Newfoundland and Labrador team that will be competing in the Special Olympics in July.
Ship Shape donated a membership to Mike for his training, a gesture Mike really appreciated. Mike also has some trainers working with him on a weekly basis. Jody Curlew has been helping Mike with weight training and has set him up on a weekly program to help build muscle. Kenny Mullett has been coaching Mike and has accompanied Mike to a coaching clinic in St. John's. Kenny has been a mentor to Mike during his training.
Mike is active in a variety of things this time of year. He travels to Gander twice a week for ringette, actively participates in Bowling Down Barriers, bowls with the mixed bowling league, and does running and biking as well.
While Mike has captured many medals in his provincial Special Olympics career, he comments that winning some medals up to the national Special Olympics level is something he would like to accomplish. He also likes the training that he is doing now as it will make him stronger. 2010 is also a selection year for the World championships in Special Olympics and making the national team would further enhance his impressive resume of accomplishments within the Special Olympic realm.
If Mike makes the national team he stands the chance to win medals as he would compete in five competitions. The 100m, 200m, 400m, standing long jump, and shot-put are all events that Mike has dominated on a provincial level and would love to test the field on a national level. Kenny feels that with the extra training that he has been receiving from his trainers and with focus and determination, Mike will have a great chance to make the team and compete in those events.
People will have the chance to cheer on Mike as he trains around town rides his bike and running. Mike hopes that this training will better prepare him when the selection process begins this coming spring. Best of luck Mike.
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