Salford-born swimmer Georgia Sheffield has won gold and bronze at the World Para Swimming Championships in Singapore.
Georgia qualified for the competition back in September and brought home a bronze and gold medal.
She started the championships with a 200m freestyle, in which she came fourth, and was unlucky to miss out on the medal places. Despite coming fourth in the world she was disappointed with the outcome, but she channeled her disappointment into her other races over the next few days.
She won a bronze medal for GB in the 100m backstroke, then secured gold for her team in the last leg of the s14 freestyle relay against some very tough competition.
After a well-earned fortnight off, she launched back into training for the new season and has her sights firmly set on the 2026 Commonwealth Games next summer. With the feeling she’s had the same high-level race experience as many of her opponents.
This success comes off the back of a year of new personal bests and world qualifying times.
Pauline, Georgia’s mum, said: “What an amazing experience for myself and my mum supporting Georgia in the World Para Swimming Championships in Singapore.
“Singapore was the nicest, cleanest, safest country we have ever been. The sights were incredible.
“We would never have experienced these if it wasn’t for Georgia and we are so thankful… not to mention how proud we are of her not only competing at such a high level, but seeing her on that podium.
“It was such a proud mama moment. How far she has come since this time last year! To see all her hard work paying off makes me so happy. Onwards and upwards Georgia – I’m excited for her future.”
Georgia began swimming at just three years old, initially crying during lessons but quickly falling in love with the sport. Diagnosed with autism and a learning disability, swimming became a safe space for her outside of school. By 13, she was classified as an S14 swimmer – a Paralympic category for individuals with intellectual impairments.
With financial support from The Salford Trust, Georgia has pursued her Paralympic dreams, attending national and international competitions and winning medals and recognition in the process.
She’s overcome loneliness and setbacks, including the COVID-19 pandemic, but continues to astonish people with her dedication in the pool.
The Salford Trust supports Georgia throughout her swimming career and helped her kickstart it. The Salford Trust opens doors for 5-25 year olds in Salford by providing opportunities for personal development and growth, especially when finances are limited.
They do this by offering funding, which helps their applicants take part in activities, try new experiences and generally do what makes them feel fulfilled.
Peter Collins CBE, Managing Trustee at The Salford Trust said: “”We are so pleased that Georgia secured her bronze and gold medals – we have supported her on her journey for a number of years. She is so committed and the more success she has had, the greater the costs.
“I am delighted that we have been able to help with funding for things such as training camps and accommodation for competitions.”
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