Wickford swimming star Adam Puddick has racked up the medals both nationally and internationally. Now he wants the authorities to cater properly for himself and similarly talented sportsmen. ANDY LEES hears the views of the international ace

Wickford swimming ace Adam Puddick boasts a world silver medal and holds four British youth records.

Medal-laden -- swim star Adam Puddick. Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY 10518C

Yet he feels he is still often treated by authorities as a second-class sportsman.

Adam, 17, of Highcliff Road, competed for Britain at the World Deaf Games in Rome, helping his country to second spot in the 4x200m freestyle relay.

But his memory was soured by the lack of respect he says he and his fellow competitors were given.

Adam, who competes for Canvey Island Swimming Club, even had to travel to the swimming arena on the local bus as the British team had not laid on a coach.

"The event was badly organised all-round," recalled the South-east Essex College student. "There was no specialist signing person and no-one knew what was going on a lot of the time. We had to rely on one of the coaches in the squad.

"The worst thing, though, was the starts in the pool. When the sun shone it was impossible to see the halogen flash gun (the device they use for deaf competitors instead of a starting pistol) and one of the top American stars got left on the line.

"I find it annoying that deaf swimmers often don't get treated as well. There is no difference and I feel we are treated as second-class athletes."

It's not just international competitions where Adam says the facilities often fail to take into account the different needs of deaf swimmers. When Adam competes for Canvey in the Essex League, some pools lack a flashgun and he only knows when to start after his coach has touched him on the back -- losing him valuable seconds.

But despite the problems, Adam is delighted to have represented his country at the sport he loves. He trains eight times a week and has swam for Britain three times.

A good indicator of his talents is that he was once coached by Maurice Sly at Havering Herons. Sly inspired the careers of swimming legends Sharron Davies and Duncan Goodhew.

Adam already holds four British deaf youth records -- 400m freestyle, 100m fly, 100m free and 400m individual medley -- and is now hungry for more.

"My long-term goal is to get as many British records as I can," he said. "It's good to break them as you can see how you are progressing.

"It's going to be pretty hard as there are a lot of good swimmers coming through. I've just got to keep training hard and see if I can do it."

Adam's next competition is the British deaf nationals in Aldershot on March 15. He is also hoping to represent Britain at the European Championships, with his long-term goal the world deaf championships in 2005.

Adam needs a sponsor for international competitions. Call his mum, Sue, on 01268 457942 if you can help.

Published Tuesday, February 19, 2002