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GOLD MEDALIST: Special Olympics hero from Garston wins Inspiration Award

 Published on: 26th October 2019   |   By: Jake Levison   |   Category: Uncategorized

A gold medallist from Garston has been dubbed “a true patriotic inspiration to Watford” by Richard Harrington, MP for Watford after winning the Kids Count Inspiration Award 2019.

The award, which Daniel was nominated for by Mr Harrington MP himself, was presented to the athlete at Houses of Parliament on Monday, October 14. It comes after he won a gold medal for Team GB in basketball at the Special Olympics in March this year.

All of Daniel’s immense sporting achievements, which include scoring a fantastic three pointer in the Olympics final against the United States, have come despite his learning difficulties and autism.

The award is in recognition of individuals and organisations that inspire young people in their communities.

Daniel, 25, said following the win: “I am really proud to win the Inspire Award for being the most inspirational young person. It was an amazing experience to go to the Houses of Parliament to receive it. Thank you Mr Harrington for nominating me. 

“I am still playing basketball for Special Olympics and now I go to schools and tell the children all about my gold medal. Even though I have learning difficulties, I just do my best and work with my team.”

Daniel’s mum, Jacqueline, added: “We are all proud of Daniel and the amazing things he has achieved this year. The Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi took Daniel and all the Special Olympics GB team out of their comfort zones and gave them a platform to thrive and Shine.

“Thank you to the men’s GB basketball team under the head coach Simon Jackson-Turner for supporting Daniel and Mr Harrington for recognising Daniel’s achievements with this award.”

Mr Harrington MP said: “He has autism and has overcome adversity to represent his country so successfully on the world stage; he is a true patriotic inspiration to Watford.

“Daniel immediately makes an impression as a passionate, caring and kind young man with a keen enthusiasm to help others with learning difficulties and promote his sport which is why I thought he was perfect for this award and I’m thrilled the judges thought so too.”

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