Doncaster-born Butterfield named in ParalympicsGB squad for Rio 2016

Doncaster-born Jo Butterfield has capped a 'whirlwind' five years by being named in the ParalympicsGB squad for Rio 2016.
Jo ButterfieldJo Butterfield
Jo Butterfield

Butterfield, who hails from Woodlands but is now based in Scotland, is the reigning Club Throw world champion.

She only took up the sport in 2013.

In 2011 Butterfield was diagnosed with a tumour on her spinal cord which resulted in her being paralysed below the waist.

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She was among the first wave of track and field athletes to be chosen to represent ParalympicsGB in Brazil, announced last week.

“Words can’t express how ecstatic I am to have been selected for the Paralympic Games,” said Butterfield.

“It’s been a whirlwind of a five years, but all the hours spent in rehab, in the gym and in the throwing circle has all paid off.

“There’s no greater honour than representing your country and I aim to do everything in my powers to make everyone proud.”

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Butterfield smashed a world record on her way to winning gold at the IPC European Championships in Italy earlier this month.

She won with a throw of 22.75m - adding 85cm to the previous official mark.

Last year she won the world title in Doha.

The Paralympics will take place from September 7-18.