Athlete Profiles

1. Name:  Robert Hughes
 
2. Year of Birth: 1983

3. Sarnia ASW Club member since: 2007

4. School: Lambton College

5. Graduation Date: 2010

6. Events and Personal Bests: Para- Athletics: F33 : Shot Put 8.82m;  Discus 21.96m, Javelin 15.63m

7. Major Achievements: Member of Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games Team; Member of 2002 IPC Athletics World Championship Team; Member of 2002 IPC Athletics World Championship Team; 2006 IPC Athletics World Championship Bronze Medalist F33 Shot Put; 2007 Para Panamerican Games Silver Medalist F52/33/34 Shot Put

8. Why did you start participating in Track and Field: I really started competing in the summer of 1997 because my parents wanted me to become more physically active during the summer months.

9. What does participating in Track and Field mean to you:  I love the thrill of competition, there is nothing better then putting on your club or national uniform and giving it you all for the thing that you love.  I really do love the sport there is not much else to say on this issue, if you love something and have a passion for it then its 100 % at all times.

10. To what do you attribute your improvements in the sport: I really must first of all thank my dad for all the years he put in coaching in me, without him i would not be where i am today.  But in August 2007 I moved to Sarnia. Joel Skinner agreed to coach me, i know that doesn't seem like much but from a coach who had very little experience in Para-Athletics it was a huge step. Joel has really improved my technique in all the throwing disciplines, but most important of all in the 2 years i have spent with him he has taught me to be a better person. Thanks Joel and I can't wait for the years to come

11. What is the highlight of your athletic career: Bronze Medalist at the 2006 IPC Athletics World Championships in Assen, Netherlands

12. Future Goals: Qualify and medal at the London 2012 Paralympic Games

13. Plans after you finish competing in Track and Field: Work somewhere in the sport industry

14. Inspirational quote: "The pride you gain is worth the pain!" Dennis Ogilvie