Category: Suffolk County Council

Craig Heap, one of Great Britain's most experienced gymnasts, is set to visit Suffolk to help support the county's up and coming sportsmen and women.

Heap, who has competed at the Olympics, at two Commonwealth Games, at five World Championships and at five European Championships, will be guest speaker at a special Suffolk SportsAid Foundation lunch taking place at the Carlton Manor Hotel in Lowestoft on Friday 19th September.

In 1998 at the Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, Craig Heap became the first person to captain England to a Gymnastics Team Gold. Four years later in the Manchester Commonwealth games he did it again.

It was not all plain sailing though; 7 weeks before the 2000 Olympic Games Craig broke his hand in two places. The thought of missing out on his lifelong dream made him train even harder. Keeping fit by using only one good hand, Craig not only made the Games but qualified for the all-round final, achieving a personal best score.

He has appeared as the 'Mystery Guest' on the BBC's 'They Think It's All Over', done back flips for Kylie Minogue and occasionally commentates on gymnastics for the BBC.

All proceeds from the event go towards helping Suffolk's up and coming sportsmen and women with the costs associated with training and competing on the national, international and world stage.

Full details, and an event application form can be found at www.suffolksportsaid.com/news.htm. Further information is available from Waveney Gymnastics Club on 01502 501419.