A CORNISH badminton player has been invited to apply for the next Special Olympics World Games in Santiago, Chile next year.

Nikki Welch, 33, from Pensilva, is the only Cornish Special Olympian that plays badminton around the UK and is currently ranked number one in the South West and number three nationally.

Having recently won gold in the mixed doubles and bronze in the singles and ladies doubles at the Special Olympics GB National Summer Games Badminton Competition in Nottingham, Nikki has now won 71 gold, 5 silver and 2 bronze medals during her stellar badminton career.

Nikki has learning disabilities and growing up presented many challenges until she went to Oakwood Specialist College in Torpoint.

“Nikki didn’t fit into mainstream schools or colleges and had been isolated from other students due to her hyperactive behaviour,” said her adoptive dad, Roger.

“At Oakwood she fitted in and the staff were amazing. They understood Nikki, accepted her for what she is, gave her an identity and introduced her to Special Olympics in Plymouth.

“Initially she played football but, when that didn’t work out, we moved her to Liskeard All Inclusive Badminton Club. She’s been playing there for 14 years and has represented Cornwall and England at national events.”

For the last four years, Nikki has been selected as a GLL Sport Foundation (GSF) athlete and trains in the gym at Liskeard Leisure Centre twice a week.

“GLL funds her membership, as well as giving her access to GLL leisure centres throughout the UK and other support services,” said Roger.

“Badminton gives Nikki freedom to express herself, improves her concentration and helps her to focus. It’s turned her life around and we’re very grateful to everyone involved in making that happen.”

Karen Edmond, GLL’s Community Sport Manager, added: “Nikki’s badminton successes are amazing. She’s a great character whose extraordinary achievements have won her widespread respect and admiration.”