Callistus and Caleb Hughes, a pair of superhero twins have aced their third ‘superhero tri’.
The eight year-old boys, sons of Paul and Jayne Hughes from Enniskillen travelled to Dorney Lake, Buckinghamshire, England recently to take part in the mammoth sporting event.
The superhero triathlon described as big, bold and gutsy is the only disability sports series for the everyday superhero. It was founded by Sophia Warner, a paralympian with a vision to deliver a fully inclusive sporting event for people with disabilities.
Callistus and Caleb have cerebral palsy and are full-time wheel chair users. They are currently primary five pupils at the Model Primary School.
Just a few weeks ago the boys set off to take part in the triathlon alongside mum Jayne, Dan Johnson, Stephan Couture, and cousin Katherine Armstrong.
The local boys even made appearance on Channel 4.
Speaking on the programme, Superhero Tri, Jayne Hughes said, “Things like superheros definitely increases their self esteem, it’s so good for them.
“You can see their confidence as they come back from superheros with their beautiful medals, they go to a mainstream school in Enniskillen and all the other children are amazed that Caleb and Callistus have done a triathlon.”
Paul explained how the boys’ interest in triathlons began. “Originally they started off simply in the swimming pool and we realised that they loved being in the water and being able to float.
“From that Jayne in particular would have explored a lot of other activities for them, anything that is sensory the boys enjoy and they just love all the sensations.”
Callistus and Caleb are also involved with Lough Erne Yacht club. Every Monday they take part in a sailability course. Jayne explained that this is a very inclusive course and enables the boys to enjoy sailing at home in Enniskillen.
“We find so much fun and our lives are an amazing adventure with the boys, of course there are very difficult days but there is a lot of excitement, fun and joy,” she remarked.
To read more.. Subscribe to current edition
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
