THREE paralympians with local roots are preparing to pit themselves against the best of the rest of the world. 

Brothers Scott McCowan, 25, and Jamie McCowan, 21, from Dundonald are competing in the precision ball sport Boccia, while Robyn Love, 26, originally from Ayr, will be competing in Wheelchair Basketball. Scott (who competed at London 2012) and Jamie have made extensive use of the Council’s sport and leisure facilities, including the Citadel Leisure Centre in Ayr, to train as part of their Paralympic journey.

Councillor Bill Grant, South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Tourism & Leisure said he wished the trio every success, “The opportunity to compete at this level is something every athlete aims for, and I’d like to wish all three the very best for Rio.

“These three athletes have overcome significant personal challenges to take their place beside the best in the world in their chosen sports and serve as an inspiration to us all.

“Everyone at home will be cheering them on in competition and we hope that all three manage to realise their dreams as the 2016 Games unfold.”

A programme of support to maximise access to sport for people living with disabilities was introduced in 1999, in partnership with South Ayrshire Access to Sport.

A full range of activities are currently available at South Ayrshire’s leisure and activity centres, including blind sailing, swimming, wheelchair tennis, running, and powerchair football.

The Rio 2016 Paralympic Games take place between September 7-18. More information is available on the website.