A cheerleading squad made up of people with learning disabilities has jetted off to take part in the World Cheerleading Championships in America.
The Jewels will travel more than 4,000 miles to the competition, held in Disney World, Florida to compete against other teams from around the globe. The event will be televised live on April 30 across the USA by all of the major networks.
The 14-strong squad will have to perform for more than 2 minutes, and put in a routine filled with tumbles, dancing and stunts.
Glenn Stocks, project manager at Bradford District Care Trust, said: “This is a huge achievement for our team, most have never competed in organised sport before and some of whom have never experienced air travel. When we set up the Jewels in October 2009 we never imagined we would be going international 18 months later! “We hope this will inspire everyone to consider just what people with learning disabilities can achieve. It’s been a lot of hard work, dedication and determination from the athletes, support staff and coach but has led to a once in a lifetime experience for The Jewels.”
You can follow the squad’s journey on Twitter @Bradford_DCT. The Jewels will perform on Saturday, April 30 at 17:45 (UK time).
The event is being covered by ESPN and ESPN2 or through online coverage at IASFWorld.org. For more information on the Jewels, visit www.bdct.nhs.uk
