National Dwarf Open Games

Chelsea Goes for Gold Thanks to Law Firm

A leading North East law firm is helping a Chester-le-Street girl to realise her dream of once again competing in the annual National Dwarf Open Games.

Irwin Mitchell has pledged to sponsor Chelsea Jobe, 14, which will allow her to compete in the under 15s category, from the sprinting and throwing events to junior team games.

In total, Chelsea will take part in eight disciplines, including the 40m and 60m sprints, shot putt and discus. She will also compete in the 60m relay and the junior team games – football, basketball and hockey.

The 17th annual National Dwarf Open Games, organised by the Dwarf Athletic Association United Kingdom, will be held in Birmingham from 30 April to 03 June 2010.

Tracey Jobe, Chelsea's mum, said: "We're absolutely thrilled with the support from Irwin Mitchell and the sponsorship will let Chelsea compete in something she loves. Chelsea has come a long way since undergoing a major bone marrow transplant when she was given only a 25 per cent chance of survival. Ten years on and she is a happy and bubbly girl who always thrives at the Dwarf Games."

John Davis, Regional Managing Partner at Irwin Mitchell, added: "Taking part in the National Dwarf Open Games is extremely important to Chelsea so we were delighted to be able to help support her."

The funding provided by Irwin Mitchell will allow Chelsea and her family to travel to the games in Birmingham, while also covering insurance and accommodation costs and entry fees.

Chelsea said: "I'm really excited about this year's games. It's nice to have the opportunity to meet other young people like me and to compete in events which don't restrict me."