Nicolas Hamilton, the brother of Formula one star Lewis Hamilton, is the new patron for national disability sports charity CP Sport.
Nicolas, who recently launched his own racing career, has cerebral palsy and has agreed to back the charity after being approached by them to support their work.
CP Sport, which is based in Nottingham, supports children and adults with cerebral palsy to help them reach their sporting potential.
The charity works at grass roots level providing opportunities for all ages and abilities across the country as well as supporting potential Paralympians.
Among its hall of fame are past and present Paralympians including swimmers Sascha Kindred, Nyree Lewis and Matt Walker, discus competitors Steve Miller, Chris Martin and Danny West. The charity continues to train and support future Paralympic hopefuls for 2012 and beyond.
CP Sport approached Nicolas as they believe he’s the perfect sportsman to represent them.
Fundraiser Rachael Newman said: “We’re delighted Nicolas has agreed to become one of our patrons. He has first-hand knowledge of cerebral palsy and a great understanding of how the condition can affect a person’s life.
“He also has a huge passion for sport and is great example to other people with cerebral palsy as he is fulfilling his sporting potential regardless of his disability.”
Nicolas Hamilton launched his racing career earlier this year signing up with Total Control Racing to compete in the 2011 Elf Renault Clio Cup.
He’s already taken part in five races this season with his next competitive race at Snetterton in August.
Rachael continued: “Nicolas is a great role model for the people we work with, whether they take part in sport for fun or are serious competitors. He has shown that it’s possible to become a serious sportsman despite having a disability, and of course is following in the footsteps of his well-known brother.
“Cerebral palsy affects movement and mobility so physical activity through sport is very important to people with the condition. For a lot of children and their parents, the charity is a lifeline as we provide the opportunity to mix with other people who understand what it’s like to live with the condition and the social side becomes just as important as taking part in the sports sessions we run.
“The 2012 Paralympics will provide us with a great opportunity to let people with the condition know that sport is for everyone regardless of age or ability. There are a number of athletes and swimmers who have come through CP Sport that are hopefuls for the games.
“We’ll certainly be cheering them on and hopefully their experiences and those of our new patron Nicolas, will encourage more adults and children with cerebral palsy to become more active and take part in sport. After all, we may well find the next big racing star or Paralympic hopeful.”
