Gemma Almond has medal target for first day
Swimmer Gemma Almond will attempt to give Shropshire a flying start to the Paralympics tomorrow.
The 19-year-old from Shrewsbury is one of the first Team GB athletes in action as the London Games gets under way.
Almond is in action in the 200m individual medley in the SM10 category. She has been drawn in heat two at around 11.30am with the final taking place at 8pm.
"It all depends on the day but there is a possibility of a medal in that event," said Gemma's father Jim, who lives in Meole Village and will head down to the capital today with wife Celia and Gemma's older sister Kate ahead of tonight's opening ceremony.
"The family were in contact with Gemma on Sunday and she seems very relaxed considering what is coming in front of her."
Almond, now based at Swansea University where she is studying history, will also compete in the 100m butterfly and the 100m and 400m freestyle – all at S10 category.
The former Meole Brace School and Shrewsbury Sixth Form College pupil, who suffers from bilateral hip dysplasia, may also take part in one of the relays.
Almond will be joined in opening-day action by Telford archer Danielle Brown, who will compete in the ranking round for the women's individual compound.
Over the next week, Telford's Mickey Bushell will hope to make an impact on the track as he competes in the 100m and 200m.
Captain Nick Beighton, of Shrewsbury, competes in rowing's mixed double sculls while Sam Scott, also from the county town, will be part of the British sitting volleyball men's team.
