Posted: Wed 5th Feb 2025

Updated: Wed 5th Feb

Flintshire honours Paralympic champions Sabrina Fortune and Rhys Darbey

News and Info from Deeside, Flintshire, North Wales
This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Feb 5th, 2025

Two successful Paralympians have been honoured by Flintshire County Council.

Paris 2024 gold medalists Sabrina Fortune and Rhys Darbey were invited to Flintshire County Council’s penultimate meeting at County Hall to each receive a ceremonial plaque and crystal presentation glasses in recognition of their achievements.

Fortune, 24, from Bryn-y-Baal broke her own world record – 14.83m – in the F20 shot, recording a throw of 15.21m on the way to victory in France. Aston Park swimmer Rhys, 17, won gold in the S14 mixed 4x100m freestyle relay and silver in the S14 individual medley on his Paralympic debut.

“These are tremendous achievements,” said Flintshire County Council chairman Cllr Dennis Hutchinson.

“It is pleasing to have representation fo Flintshire on the global stage.  You are both a credit to Flintshire. The dedication, determination and sacrifice you have both had to make in your respective sports is second to none.”

Councillors across the chamber were keen to praise the duo.

“Congratulations to Sabrina and Rhys,” said Aston Cllr Helen Brown. “Thank you for being so inspiring to young people who may want to follow in your footsteps.

“Massive congratulations to Rhys and Sabrina for flying the flag high,” added Queensferry and Sealand Cllr Dale Selvester. I know Rhys’ dad very well he’s my hairdresser at Headmasters in Queensferry, and I know his dad is very proud of him.”

Cllr Mared Eastwood also praised the duo.

“The dedication and hard work you’ve both put in has brought you well deserved success. Sabrina is one of the residents in my ward and I’m looking forward to organising another commemoration for her very soon.”

And Cllr Anthony Wren recognised Rhys’ rapid rise through the swimming ranks.

“I’m involved with Connah’s Quay Swimming Club and Cambrian Aquatics in Connah’s Quay and I’ve known Rhys since he was a wee little nipper and couldn’t swim.

“I’ve watched him from the learn-to-swim phase go through the full system, competing locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Way to go Rhys!”

 

By Alec Doyle – Local Democracy Reporter

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