A PAIR of badminton players are celebrating after teaming up to win the doubles at the European disabled championships in Switzerland.
Oliver Clarke from Chislehurst and Orpington’s Andrew Martin, both aged 22, have Achondroplasia, the commonest form of dwarfism, but this does not stop them being enthusiastic and skilful players.
The pair had not dropped a set in their progress to the final.
Playing some of the best and most aggressive badminton seen throughout the weekend, they won convincingly in a match against Niall McVeigh and partner Krysten Coombes.
In the singles, there was an early exit for Martin but Clarke reached the final after an impressive semi success against Russia’s Alexandr Mekhdiev.
This booked a final clash with reigning champion McVeigh and the Chislehurst ace came from behind in the final set 21-18, 14-21, 21-19.
Clarke and Martin are long-time members of the Dwarf Sports Association UK and regularly compete in National and International Championships.
They train every Thursday evening at the Priory Leisure Centre with other senior members of Orpington Juniors Badminton Club under the watchful eye of coach Paul Parham.
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