Five years ago, Wellington based Fletch was diagnosed with keratoconus, which has caused his vision to deteriorate. Fletch, now aged 15, is involved in a range of sports, and has seen some outstanding success, including winning multiple medals at the Special Olympics. Read on to learn more about Fletch’s experiences of playing sport with a vision impairment.
Fletch with his ski medals
Fletch, who also has Down syndrome and dislocating kneecaps, has been competing in the Special Olympics for the past seven years. A lover of animals, Fletch got involved in Riding for the Disabled at a young age and joined the Special Olympics equestrian team at age eight. In 2017, Fletch earned two gold medals and a bronze at the National Summer Special Olympics.
Equestrian isn’t the only sport that Fletch competes in. He is also a part of the Special Olympics skiing team, and took home a gold and bronze medal at the 2019 Winter Special Olympics. He became interested in skiing after spending time out on the slopes with his family, as well as participating in adaptive ski sessions.
Fletch at the climbing wall
When he’s not riding or skiing, Fletch who is a big fan of water sports, sails with Sailability, a sailing programme designed for those with a disability. Last year, he also had the opportunity to learn some new skills out on the water as part of Blind Sport NZ’s youth programme, in the surfing and sailing sessions.
Not wanting to miss out on team sports, Fletch has been playing floorball since he was in primary school, and still plays for his school social team. Being a part of the social team gives him the opportunity to socialise alongside his school peers.
A recent challenge that Fletch has taken on is the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award. He trains weekly at the gym to fulfil the sport component, and has attended a camp and an Outward Bound course to fulfil the adventurous journey component. The Duke of Edinburgh has enabled Fletch to develop lots of new skills and independence.
Fletch with his equestrian ribbons from the Special Olympics
Fletch’s best memories come from the week-long skiing camps he has attended, where he gets to travel and spend time with his team mates, his dad and the other competitors. The memories that Fletch is able to make with his peers, and the life skills he is able to develop are among some of his favourite things about participating in sport.
Interested in trying out some of the sports mentioned above? Visit the Find a Sport page, or get in touch with casey@blindsport.kiwi