Bermuda's Sandy Mitchell, aged 64 and believed to be the oldest rider of the equestrian events at the Beijing Paralympic Games, is looking to earn a medal, no matter its color, in the upcoming competition.
Born in Scotland with cerebral palsy in 1944, Mitchell began riding as a boy but did not devote himself to the sport until just 15 years ago.
His experience as a spectator to applaud for Bermuda's first equestrian team to compete in the Atlanta Paralympic Games in 1996 made him decide that he could become a competitive Dressage rider too.
Soon after, he began training and taking part in local and international competitions. Recognition of his ability came when he was selected to compete for Bermuda at the Sydney Paralympics.
Three years later, he scored a personal best and finished sixth overall in his grade at the World Para-Equestrian Dressage Championships in Belgium. He also attended the Athens Paralympics.
The Grade Ia rider is determined to put in a good showing at the Hong Kong Shatin equestrian venue, saying: "I have stayed in the sport because of the motivation and enjoyment it offers."
He said he would like to ride his personal best. "If I am lucky I may get a medal -- any color will do."
Mitchell also eyed on the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, the United States, at which para-equestrian events will for the first time also be on the program.
"I will stay in the sport as long as I can, even at 80. I feel good, so I will keep it up," he said.
(Xinhua News Agency September 4, 2008)