Official review ends swimmer Erraid’s Rio dream
Ryan TaylorCommonwealth medal-winning swimmer Erraid Davies has been ruled out of competing in this year’s Paralympics in Rio.
The 15-year-old was deemed ineligible for disability swimming after medical tests were carried out in Berlin today.
Davies, who suffers from the rare hip condition Perthes disease, was first warned her impairment was not serious enough in April.
At that time she had taken part in a classification review at Tollcross International Swimming Centre.
The Delting Dolphins swimmer had been due to be seen again, in keeping with standard protocol. But now a second panel has upheld the earlier decision.
Davies won bronze at the age of 13 when she stood as the youngest competitor at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
She won bronze by finishing third in the SB9 100 metres breaststroke making her the youngest ever medallist.
Her success led to her smiling face being beamed around the globe.
It also led to Davies being named a joint winner of the Shetland Sportsperson of the Year title in 2014 alongside fellow Commonwealth Games competitors, swimmer Andrea Strachan and table tennis star, Lynda Flaws.
Little is known about Perthes, despite it being a common hip disorder in children, because of its self-limiting nature.
Its cause is unknown, but the majority of children recover without any intervention.
ian tinkler
So sad, for Erraid, as she must be very disappointed at not being able to compete in Rio. One must however celebrate her massive achievements to date. The very fact, that her commitment to exercise and especially swimming, has so reduced the severity of her disability, she no longer can be regarded as disabled enough for the Para Olympics is the most fantastic news. She is truly a shining light of achievement, it is her shear commitment to training and hard work that has enabled her to overcome her illness to such a degree. She is a magnificent example of perseverance and courage that all of us. Shetland should be so very proud of her. Well done Erraid, you are a true heroine and will always be a star.