WHEN it comes to doing his personal best, Jamie Matthews just won’t give up.
The eight-year-old has been awarded the under 18s All Abilities Sports Star first quarter certificate after claiming Swan Hill Athletics Club’s highest number of personal bests last season.
Nominated by his mother Tamara, she said his 31 personal bests — more than any other club member for the 2011/2012 season — were a result of his persistence and wide variety of events.
“He likes to improve his own efforts,” Ms Matthews said.
“He enjoys having a go at lots of different things — 70m, 100m, 200m, long jump, triple jump, discus, hurdles — he has a crack at everything.
“He’s also got friends there and enjoys the social aspect.
“And I guess the trophy at the end of it helps,” she laughed.
With Ectrodactyly-ectodermal dysplasia-cleft (EEC) syndrome, Jamie was born with three fingers on each hand and two toes on each foot.
But apart from using a smaller discus, Jamie’s syndrome didn’t hold him back, Ms Matthews said.
“[Swan Hill Little Aths] has been a very inclusive club, they let you have a go and do what they can to accommodate you.”
The all-round sportsman also tries his hand at football, calisthenics, cricket and tennis.
Ms Matthews said the All Abilities awards were a great opportunity for showcasing the achievement of people with disabilities.
“Sometimes people with disabilities have greater strengths than people without.”
