A PARA-archer from Siddington has returned from Rio de Janeiro after spending time learning about what it means to be a Paralympian as she bids to make it to the next games in Tokyo, writes Tom Nellist.

Phoebe Pine, who earlier this year represented Archery GB at the European Para Archery Championships in France, flew out to the Brazilian city on September 13 and spent a week watching the sports and learning first hand from ParaGB athletes.

“It was a really good trip,” she said.

“We were taken to watch a number of sports to learn from the atmosphere to take on to our own performances.

“This will allow the experiences to aid our performances when it comes to Tokyo 2020.

Phoebe was shown around by former Paralympians Rick Whaddon, who won a track cycling silver at both Beijing 2008 and London 2012, as well as Ben Quilter, the London 2012 judo bronze medallist.

“We saw wheelchair basketball and tennis but my favourite was the swimming, it’s amazing to see them compete,” said Phoebe.

“We visited the athlete’s village and British house and got lots of tips on being a competitor at the Games including how to handle the pressure.”

Phoebe’s mum, Alison, said: “Obviously I’m so proud she did it. It’s a massive thing to do at 18 and it’s great they recognise her potential.

“It was an amazing group of people she was with.”

Phoebe, who went to Cirencester College and is a member of Deer Park Archers, is now back in training as she hopes to compete in her first world championships next year.