Fab Four For Golden Boy George
University of Greenwich at Medway student George Newman swam his way to a stunning four gold medals and a new world record when he represented Great Britain at the World Transplant Games in Thailand.
If that wasn't enough the Bio Science and Medical Physiology student from New Eltham added a further two silver medals as Team GB dominated in the pool as well as the other events taking place at the games.
George's success, which came in the 100 metres breaststroke, 50 metres breaststroke, men's freestyle relay and men's medley relay, betters his record of two years ago at the same event in Canada, where he claimed a hat-trick of gold medals.
The 19-year-old smashed the world record as part of the team in the men's medley relay and said the whole event was a memorable experience.
He says: "It was really enjoyable and Thailand was much different from other parts of the world I have visited. The Thai people were incredibly welcoming despite signs of evident poverty and I made many friends out there. It was fantastic to get a glimpse of their culture."
The Greenwich Borough Mariner Swimming Club member had a kidney transplant in 1988 having experienced difficulties from birth. At first the transplant did not give George the desired lease of life but after a change in medication, he has been able to take up swimming and now trains up to sevens times a week as well as completing gym sessions.
Shortly before travelling to Thailand, George, who hopes to attend veterinary college on completing his studies, suffered a broken hand but the injury did not hamper him and he is already targeting more success at the 2009 games in Australia.
He adds: "Swimming has given me some fantastic opportunities to explore the world and meet many new people. I hope to be able to continue as it's a real honour to represent your country on the world stage. For me and all the athletes we require sponsorship and have to undertake a lot of fund-raising but I am already really looking forward to 2009 and a chance to do even better Down Under."
Dr Stuart Ashenden, The University of Greenwich’s Director of Academic Planning, Medway, says: "George is an outstanding example to all and deserves every bit of success he achieves which has come about through sheer will, hardwork and determination.
“As a university we are always pleased to see our students excel in any arena and actively encourage them to get involved in other pursuits outside their studies, which means they get a more rounded educational experience."
Any individual or business wishing to sponsor George can contact him by email on kidneyswimmer@hotmail.com
ENDS
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University of Greenwich at Medway Public Relations, tel: 020 8331 9420
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