Nick Ball

Nick has worked as an Instructor at The Lake District Calvert Trust for over 28 years helping to challenge everyone's perception of disability by proving that outdoor adventurous activities can be achieved by everyone. It is not only his inspiring work with disabled people who are amongst the most disadvantaged in the community that prompts us to nominate him. He has designed many pioneering equipment adaptations such as an electric, remote-controlled archery crossbow; a 'glove' allowing tetraplegics to handle a mainsheet on a yacht and a battery-powered steering device for sailing dinghies to name a few. Now, even more people with disabilities can access these sports and it has pushed the boundaries of what those living and coping with a disability can accomplish. For his commitment, dedication and passion to improve the lives of people with disabilities, and for his outstanding pioneering equipment developments we think Nick Ball is a most worthy Olympic torchbearer.