Wimborne swimmer aiming for Paralympics after success

Isabella Haynes took the win at the 200m freestyle at the games in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, and also collected a silver in the 200m medley.

After her success and a phenomenal season in the pool, Isabella, from Wimborne, was named the English Schools Swimming Association’s top female para-athlete.

The 14-year-old is in Year 10 at Queen Elizabeth’s School and is a right-leg amputee since birth.

She learned to swim in Ferndown and joined the Wimborne Wagtails, before progressing on to Swim Bournemouth, where she trains most mornings.

Before flying to Rio this summer, she competed in the British and English Championship finals.

Isabella said: “It was amazing when they announced that the winner in the 200m freestyle was ‘Isabella from England’ and I went to the podium.

“When I finished the race I didn’t know I’d won because in para-swimming there are variations in disability so the results are worked out at the end of the race.

“I train every morning and sometimes it is hard waking up but I know I’ve just got to do it.

“While I was in Rio I was named the English Schools top para athlete which was incredible.

“I hope to get through to the Paralympics – maybe not the next one, but hopefully the one after.”

Isabella has a twin sister, Silvana, and an older brother, Sebastian.

Her parents, Elizabeth and Martin, said: “We are very proud of Isabella and are grateful to everyone who helped.

“Allenbourn School held a cake sale to raise money for the Rio trip and QE and Swim Bournemouth have been incredibly supportive too.”

Isabella attended St John’s First School and Allenbourne Middle School before joining Queen Elizabeth’s, which are all part of Initio Learning Trust.

Liz West, CEO of the Trust, said: “Everyone at the trust is so chuffed to hear of Isabella’s success.

“She has trained so hard for so long and is extremely dedicated.”