Dorset Spotlight - July/August 2022 Issue

Dorset

SPOTLIGHT

JULY / AUGUST 2022 ISSUE: NO.3

BRINGING THE DORSET COMMUNITY TOGETHER THROUGH SPORT, HEALTH & WELLNESS, AND SUPPORTING LOCAL CHARITIES

TEAM GRIMSON/MUMBY ARE COMPETING AT THE COMMONWEALTH

GAMES 2022

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Pro Golfer - Matt Williams | IFBB Pro Figure Athlete Clare Barks | Amputee Cricketeer - Rob Franks | Women's Rugby Journalist Stella Mills | Tumbler - Emilia Plested | County Cricketeer - Harry Franks, plus Dorset's fantastic fundraisers!

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JULY / AUGUST 2022 - ISSUE 03

IN THIS ISSUE WELCOME TO DORSET SPOTLIGHT With summer officially here, the sun is shining, and it is time to get outside to enjoy our fantastic beaches and Dorset coastline.

We send a big well done to Dorset students who recently completed their exams and are now embarking on new chapters of their lives.

Some brilliant UK sports events are happening in the coming months; with Wimbledon now upon us and the Commonwealth Games around the corner, there is no better time to feel inspired on your health and fitness journey.

Our July-August edition of Dorset Spotlight showcases our local sporting talents. Jess and Daisy are heading to the Commonwealth Games; Matt talks about his life as a professional golfer, Stella shares her passion for women's Rugby, Rob chats about his success as an amputee cricketer and Clare celebrates becoming an IFBB Pro athlete.

But the achievements in Dorset don't stop there. Xander from Dorset Spotlight Kids chats to County Cricketer Harry and talented Tumbler Emilia. We also share with you the brilliant events our local charities have coming up and what their fantastic fundraisers have achieved.

So, sit back , relax and enjoy our new issue. See you again in September!

Dawn P.s don't forget to subscribe and follow us on your preferred socials. Always grateful for your support!

Dawn Exley Editor COLLABORATE | INSPIRE | CONNECT | SUPPORT CONTACT US: info@dorsetspotlight.co.uk | Tel: 07793 725008 | Follow us on Instagram: @dorset_spotlight

CONTENTS DORSET SPOTLIGHT | JULY / AUGUST 2022 | ISSUE 3

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06 11

02 06 11 15 17 21 24 26 29 31

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Jess Grimson & Daisy Mumby - Beach Volleyball Rob Franks - Amputee Cricketeer Matt Williams - Professional Golfer Healthy Recipes Stella Mills - Women's Rugby Journalist Clare Barks - IFBB Pro Figure Athlete Try A New Sport Emilia Plested - Tumbling Harry Franks - County Cricketeer Charity Focus DORSET SPOTLIGHT

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"LIFE BEGINS. WHERE FEAR ENDS." | 03

For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight 1 Dorset Spotlight, july / august 2022

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FEATURE

TEAM GRIMSON-MUMBY TEAM GRIMSON-MUMBY, HEAD TO THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES! Jess Grimson, 31, and Daisy Mumby, 30, recently won the Commonwealth Games Selection Tournament for Beach Volleyball and will now be part of the Team England squad striving to win gold at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham from 28th July to 8th August.

The fearless Bournemouth duo have been training hard for this moment, alongside working part-time at their respective jobs Jess, as a Sports Therapist and Daisy, as a Freelance Video Editor in the sports industry.

Jess, who will be competing for the second time at the Commonwealth Games, approached Daisy back in 2019 to be partners. In January 2020, Daisy agreed, and they flew to Brazil to train - as they say, the rest is history.

DS: What an exciting time for Team GrimsonMumby. Tell us about the moment when you knew you had won the Selection Tournament and would be part of the Team England squad competing at the Commonwealth Games? dorsetspotlight.co.uk

JESS: "The initial feeling was pure relief. We have worked so hard and put so much into it that it was a great moment but such a relief that the work and time had really paid off."

DS: Now you will be competing at the Commonwealth Games - what funding or sponsorship do you have, and are you still looking for more?

TEAM G-M: "As a by-product of winning the tournament, we secured a small amount of funding that will help us prep over the next six weeks. We also do work with the BVF (British Volleyball Federation). Until last July, we have self-funded, and we both work to fund our training and competitions.

We're always on the lookout for support - it would make it possible to do much more."

Beach Volleyball consists of teams of two going head-tohead on the sand. At the beginning of each rally the ball is served over the net to the opposition. The ball can be hit a maximum of three times, on one side before it goes over the net. The teams continue to hit back and forth until one team wins the rally. Teams win a rally if the opposition fails to return the ball, commits a fault, or if the ball lands in the opponent’s court. The team who wins the rally, wins a point, and will serve next. Matches are best of three sets.

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DS: When did you first start playing volleyball, and has it always been your first choice of sport?

JESS: “I was 13 when I first started playing volleyball at school. My PE teacher used to play for England and made it part of our curriculum and more accessible. At the time, I was into every sport but mainly football - I played for Sussex and Brighton. I was pretty good back then, but when I got into the England set-up for Volleyball at 15/16, I had a choice to make. I decided to take the plunge to change entirely to volleyball which was a gamble. But it paid off!”

DAISY: “I played every possible sport at school, including volleyball, so technically that's when I started. I have always been very active and sporty, and I joined the football, basketball, and volleyball teams when I started University. I stuck with volleyball after graduating, playing recreationally, until a few years ago when I got a phone call from Jess asking me to join her in trying to qualify for the Commonwealth Games - and here we are!”

DS: Which do you prefer playing beach volleyball or indoor volleyball, and why?

JESS: “I prefer beach volleyball - the nature of the sport is what drew me in.

We get to travel the world, be on the beach, hopefully in the sunshine and play such an exciting sport. I also love the element of responsibility, the impact you individually can have on the game. For me, that separates it from indoor volleyball.”

DAISY: “I also prefer beach volleyball. You get to touch the ball in (almost) every rally, and you're more involved in the whole game.

I do miss the squad side of indoor volleyball, but that can also have its disadvantages.”

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DS: You are inspiring athletes to many, but who inspires you?

JESS: “From a generic sports point of view, Jessica Ennis is one of my favourites. To be so skilled and talented in that many different sports, given her height, is very impressive. Within Beach Volleyball, there are a few. Misty May or Laura Ludwig - are most likely, similar in stature and some of the best in the world!”

DAISY: “My inspirations change daily, as there are so many high-level athletes out there accomplishing so much. When I discover athletes who have gotten into their sports "later" in life, that motivates me and makes me realise that anything is possible. One of my favourite athletes right now is Brandie Wilkerson she played indoor from a young age and transitioned into beach volleyball in her late 20s; she is now an Olympian and one of the best in the world.”

DS: Looking forward - what are your future goals for Team Grimson-Mumby?

TEAM G-M: "We have an amazing team, on and off the court, and we are excited to see where we can take it. It would be great to put England on the map for Beach Volleyball - make some history, and hopefully allow for a legacy for all those in our sport in the future!"

Follow Team Grimson-Mumby on their respective Instagram pages – Jess, @jgrim02 & Daisy, @daisomumbo For sponsorship opportunities, please email teamgrimsonmumby@gmail.com

TEAM GRIMSON-MUMBY dorsetspotlight.co.uk

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"how you deal with the hardest days, defines who you truly are."

For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight 5 Dorset Spotlight, july / august 2022

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inspiration

ROB FRANKS ONE-LEGGED WARRIOR One-Legged Warrior - is the perfect

ROB: "I started my cricketing journey when I was

description of the man in question.

seven years old at my hometown Club in Frome,

We chat to the Ex- England cricketer

Somerset. As soon as I picked up a bat, I knew it

Rob Franks, 43, from Poole, about his

was the sport for me.

I played a lot of club cricket through my life, and

cricketing career, the cricket injury

I'm proud to say I've captained every team I've

that changed his life, battling against

played for. I wasn't lucky enough to play county

the constant pain, and the pivotal moment he decided to crowdfund to amputate his leg.

DS: Hi Rob, thanks for chatting with Dorset Spotlight. You are unquestionably a man who has been through tough times. Tell us about your cricket career leading up to your injury? Did you start playing cricket from a young age – and to what level did you reach?

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cricket in my youth, but I did play up to a good standard in the west of England premier league.

And as you will learn later in the interview, I even gained international honours!"

In 2011, during a cricket match, Rob injured his knee when he slid for the ball.

DS: Describe the moment in the game when you injured your knee. How bad was the damage, were you in much pain, and what was your journey like toward recovery?

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ROB: "The day I injured myself was a day that set up a chain of events that would change my life for ever - little did I know it at that point!

I slid for a ball and felt my knee buckle slightly but carried on playing. A few days after the game, my wife Carla insisted (nagged me, really)- to go for a scan on my knee. Within a few hours I was asked to return to the doctors. I learnt the news that I had a four-inch tumour in my distal femur and was sent immediately to Stanmore hospital in London for an urgent operation.

The operation went well, and for a year, everything was fine, and I returned to my 'normal' life. That was until, I had an ache in my leg at the tumour site. So, I went back to the hospital for another scan. I knew in my heart it had returned, and sure enough it had... but it was now six inches long! I underwent another operation which unfortunately went wrong leaving me with a disability as my left leg was useless and in a brace permanently.

After a few months, my wife encouraged me to trial for the Dorset disability team, which I did and was accepted. Every cloud has a silver lining, and I was honoured to play for the England Disability International Cricket Team 12 times and once as captain.

In my second game for Dorset, I played a game vs Hampshire. I batted and got to 15 before I played a very casual shot off my hips and ended up in a heap on the floor. I look down to see my leg at a right angle. I don't remember much after that until after the operation when they rebuilt my leg. Apparently, I tried to get up to carry on playing and asked to see my dad, who had passed away nine years previously!

They gave me ketamine to help with the pain when it happened, as the pain was immense. But I slowly worked up to living some kind of life, albeit very different.

After a year, I couldn't even get out of bed, so I knew something had to be done. I wasn't the father or husband I wanted to be or that my family needed."

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DS: Tell us about the pivotal moment when you decided to crowdfund to amputate your leg?

ROB: "I vividly remember that it was a Monday morning, and I very casually said to Carla that I would have a better life if I had my leg chopped off. She immediately said, 'why don't we look into it?' So we did.

I spoke to a surgeon, and I told them of my intention. They point blank refused. I asked why and they said very simply - that I didn't satisfy the criteria. I argued that I was costing the NHS thousands of pounds a year as I was on 23 different pain medication a day - it was also hugely affecting my mental health.

I sternly said to the surgeon that if he wouldn't approve the operation, I would get it done myself! He looked at me, laughed and said, 'good luck!' I walked out and cried on Carla's shoulder.

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I spoke to a few people, and a surgeon who had done amputations privately was suggested. I booked an appointment to see him.

At the appointment, he took one look at my scans and said he couldn't see any other solution but amputation. His colleague agreed and was also of the same opinion; I cried - for the first time, someone was listening to me.

He gave me the rough costs, and we went away to work out how to find the money.

We decided to try and crowdfund the money, and then the Jeremy Vine show on Radio 2 asked me to do an interview which I was delighted to do - within 5 minutes of being on, we had raised the £15k we needed; we were blown away by this.

I went back to see my surgeon, and part of the process was to prove I was of sound mind, which I passed (to this day, I've no idea how as I'm mad as a hatter!)

The amputation was booked for the 21st of March 2018.”

Rob is married to Carla, and together they have two boys Harry and Oliver.

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DS: How did the decision to amputate your leg affect you and your family?

ROB: "To be honest, we all knew it was the best thing to do, and the family were 100% behind me.

I've always said Carla is my rock, and without her, I wouldn't have had the strength to do it alone.

I don't think the enormity of what was happening affected me too much, but I was conscious of how it could affect the family.

The kids have taken it in their Stride (excuse the pun)" DS: What difference has it made to your life after being fitted with a prosthetic leg?

ROB: “As soon as I woke up from the chop, I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I was home the day after, and my life restarted.

10-weeks after the amputation, I was back playing cricket and life was fantastic again.

I didn't ever imagine I would be on this path in life, but I'm so glad I am."

DS: Congratulations on being selected to be part of the SW Queen’s baton relay on the 4th of July?

How did you feel when you found out you would be part of such a special event?

ROB: "Thank you. It blew me away when I discovered that I was nominated. I honestly didn't think I stood any chance of being selected out of the 100000s of nominations. I was extremely surprised when I read that I was selected.

There are more deserving people than me who should be in this once in a lifetime position, so I am doing it for them and my wonderful family - I just hope I don't drop the baton."

Follow Rob on Instagram @oneleggedwarrior1

ROB FRANKS 9 Dorset Spotlight, july/ august 2022

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Today i will do what other's won't.

So i can accomplish what other's can't"

For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight dorsetspotlight.co.uk

Dorset Spotlight, July / august 2022 10

MATT WILLIAMS FEATURE MATT'S CONNECTION TO BOURNEMOUTH STARTED AFTER HIS REGIONAL AND NATIONAL SUCCESS AT COLLEGE GOLF TOURNAMENTS. SUBSEQUENTLY, HE WAS OFFERED A GOLFING SCHOLARSHIP BY BOURNEMOUTH UNIVERSITY AND COMPLETED HIS PGA DEGREE OVER THREE YEARS. MATT, AGE 26, IS NOW A PGA TOURNAMENT PROFESSIONAL COMPETING ON THE SKY SPORTS EUROPRO TOUR, MIDDLE EAST BASED MENA TOUR, CLUTCH PRO TOUR, AND THE TP TOUR SINCE 2017, OF WHICH HE IS ALSO A MEMBER.

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Matt is also an accomplished golf performance coach specialising in the short game and is the head coach at Meyrick Park golf club and his own state-of-the-art golf performance studio at Parley Golf Centre.

Dorset Spotlight chats to Matt about his successful golfing career and his passion for raising awareness about mental health issues.

DS: Hi Matt, has golf always been your passion?

MATT: "Golf has been my main sport since I was 12 years old. Around 14-15 years old, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career as a golf professional.

Prior to that, I did BMX racing and was ranked 6th in the UK for my age and in the Top 20 in the European Championships back in 2005."

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DS: What is a typical working day like for you?

MATT: "It varies from day to day and week to week. If I'm away for a tournament, I aim to get to the course an hour before my tee time and warm up for the round ahead. If I am at home and teaching, I aim to do 3-4 lessons per day to help supplement tournament and general living costs. I tend to keep my coaching sessions to the morning or afternoons, depending on the day of the week, and I ensure that I have half of the day free to practice and train myself."

DS: As a PGA Tournament Professional, how often do you get the chance to compete, and what has been the highlight of your career so far?

MATT: "Luckily, being a qualified PGA professional, I can play in PGA tournaments too, so alongside the number of tours in the UK, there's usually at least one tournament a week - often 2 or 3 a week. The cost of entering, travelling, and accommodation for the tournaments isn't cheap, so I carefully select which events to play to make sure I get the most out of each one.

It's strange to say, but the highlight of my career isn't one of my six professional wins. Earlier this year, I got invited to Pakistan to compete in an invite-only tournament hosted by the MENA Tour to celebrate the opening of the country's first championship course designed by Sir Nick Faldo.

The field was extremely strong, with Sir Nick himself playing. US Open winner and multiple Ryder Cup winner Graeme McDowell, and European Tour winner Rafa Cabrera-Bello also competed. It would be fair to say I wasn't expecting to place at the top with players of this calibre only a matter of metres away from me on the driving range. I finished 3rd that week, beating all of the notable names, which was incredible!"

DS: What is your ambition for the future?

MATT: "The same as any sportsperson, I would say, keep improving day by day and see how far I can go. Over the past 10- years, the standard of professional golf has improved immensely, and the amount of people trying to compete has shot up too. So, currently, it's the hardest time to try and climb the ranks. I don't set myself goals of having to achieve a certain number of wins etc. If I'm giving my all and enjoying it, that is the main thing.

The good results will come with time and the right mindset." dorsetspotlight.co.uk

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DS: What are your ‘3 TOP TIPS’ for someone looking to play golf?

MATT: "1. Seek expert advice from a PGA Professional - golf clubs should have a PGA Professional who will be able to give the correct guidance for you to perform at your best, listening to friends or other golfers won't be beneficial for the long term despite their best intentions of trying to help.

2. If new to the game, find a course that isn't too challenging to start with - a short and flat golf course is ideal for getting started. Once it feels a little easy, play longer and more challenging courses.

3. Have fun! Everyone who plays golf should play to have fun, as when we hit bad shots, it's very easy to be hard on ourselves. Remember why you started playing - it will always be to have fun.”

DS: You are an advocate on mental health issues. Tell us why this is so important to you and what you are doing to raise awareness locally?

MATT: "That's right, I'm an ambassador for MYNDUP, a mental health organisation set up by a fellow golfer who had issues. The past 2 to 3 years have been tough for many of us. Unfortunately, I had my own struggles during the lockdowns which I found hard to talk to anyone about.

Recently, it was Mental Health Awareness Week. My sponsor - Simplify Consulting, based near Southampton, and I decided to do a 72-hole golf challenge on the 8th of July to raise funds for Solent Mind.

Four rounds of golf in one day will be a real challenge. The most I've ever done was two! I'm personally looking to raise £1000 off the back of this event by running a competition. A £5 donation will allow people to guess how many shots I will take over the four rounds. The person with the correct or closest guess will win a four-hour coaching experience with me. Fingers crossed, this will raise some funds for a great cause and will be the start of our fundraising efforts."

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DS: On a lighter note: What's the strangest/funniest thing you have ever seen on golf course?

MATT: "Despite golf being seen as a dull and non-eventful game, there are always numerous things that make you laugh on the course. I played a practice round with a close friend ahead of a tournament, and we had a match against each other to see who bought dinner that night. We were on the last hole, and he was ahead by two shots before his ball finished on the edge of a lake. Rather than taking a drop away from the lake, he insisted I would buy him dinner and tried to play the ball. Unfortunately for him, and whilst trying to hit the ball, he lost his footing and fell into the lake! The game finished in a tie, and he lost out on his free dinner. As a result, a double win for me - not having to buy dinner and getting a laugh too!"

Check out Matt’s website www.mattwilliamsgolf.co.uk, or follow him on Instagram @mattwilliamsgolf

MATT WILLIAMS

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Pear, Cured Ham & Walnut Salad #GETDORSETHEALTHY

Serves 2

What you will need to do:

What you will need: bag of rocket 1 ripe pear, sliced 3 oz. (100g) blue cheese, cubed 4 slices cured ham, cut into strips ¼ cup (30g) walnuts, chopped

1. Divide the rocket between two bowls. Peel the pear, cut into quarters, cut out the seed nests, and slice. Then arrange on the rocket evenly.

Dressing: 1 tbsp. olive oil 2 tsp. lemon juice 1 tbsp. maple syrup

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2. Add the cubed cheese and the ham. Finally, top with nuts.

3. Mix the dressing ingredients, season with salt and freshly ground pepper, and pour over the salad then serve.

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Kcal: 466 Fats (g): 35 | Carbs (g): 16 | Protein (g): 22

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Fit Almond Energy Balls #GETDORSETHEALTHY Serves 6

What you need to do:

What you need:

1. Place the almond flour into a bowl, add honey and oil and mix well using your hand, pressing firmly. Form 6 balls.

120g ground almond 2 tbsp. of honey (or maple syrup) 1 tsp. coconut oil, melted ½ tsp. lemon juice (optional) 2 tbsp. desiccated coconut or poppy seeds

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2. You can also add half a teaspoon of lemon juice to break the sweetness.

3. Roll the energy balls in coconut poppy seeds.

Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Kcal: 178 Fats (g): 14 | Carbs (g): 8 | Protein (g): 6

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STELLA MILLS

FEATURE

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Stella Mills, 24, is waving the flag for women's rugby. The grassroots rugby player from Poole has had a great career playing for local rugby teams; Dorset & Wilts County team, captained the Poole rugby club, and Dorset Spotlight, May/ june 2022 played and coached for Oakmedians RFC girls’ team.

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Stella studied at Newcastle University, where she gained a BA in Politics and an MSc in International Marketing; she also played for the Newcastle University women's rugby first team.

Her passion for the sport has led to extraordinary opportunities. She is pursuing her dream career as a rugby journalist, interviewing some of the top stars in the sport.

DS: Hi Stella, how young were you when you first started playing rugby and what made you choose rugby over other sports?

STELLA: “I started playing the sport when I was in secondary school. I didn’t have much interest in sports in general; in fact, I always used to try and find every excuse in the book not to participate in P.E. I was teased heavily by the boys in my year that made me self-conscious about showing my legs. It wasn’t until a local rugby coach, Gordon, came into my school and put on a rugby session that I realised there was a space in sport for me. I hit the tackle pad with my full force and fell in love with the sport.”

The England Women’s National Rugby Union team, also known as the Red Roses, won their third consecutive Women’s Six Nations title in 2022 with a Grand Slam victory in France. The Red Roses achieved their 23rd consecutive win to equal the England Women record from 1992-97 and have won the Grand Slam for the 16th time – as last year wasn’t technically a Grand Slam. Overall, England have won 18 titles.

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DS: How did it feel covering such an iconic women’s rugby event? The atmosphere must have been electric!

STELLA: “The last match of the season was in France. Due to the nature of my role, I covered this one from home, working for O2 on their social media. However, you could feel the sense of pride busting through the TV screen. The French are well known for their love of rugby, and the stadium was not only sold out but also jampacked with French fans, which wasn’t an easy thing for the Red Roses, but you could see it added fuel to their fire.

However, I was lucky enough to cover the final of the Allianz Premier 15’s live, which was just superb!”

DS: You have a passion for equal opportunities within the rugby community; tell us about that?

STELLA: "Yes, I have a huge passion for every aspect of the sport, on and off the field - starting in grassroots rugby, right from the ground up. As the sport is often not offered at school, girls come to it later in life.

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I am especially keen to change this and have been supporting Girls Rugby Club in the 'let the girls play' initiative, which campaigns for Rugby to be made available to girls at school via the curriculum."

DS: What advice would you give any young girls thinking about trying rugby for the first time?

STELLA: "Give it a go! Find a local club and arrange to go to your first training session. Rugby is a sport for everybody, so I am confident you will find a position to suit you.

Also, if you are a little nervous about the contact side of things, tell the coach your concerns. There are many methods to build up to this slowly to ensure you feel comfortable playing the sport.

Honestly, go and give it a try!"

Follow Stella on Instagram @Stellamills__ and Twitter @stella_mills_ www.stellamills.co.uk

STELLA MILLS dorsetspotlight.co.uk

"work hard in silence. let your success be the noise."

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CLARE BARKS To achieve a physique enabling you to compete against the best in the world takes dedication and sacrifice - a focused mindset is a must to train hard and consistently eat clean.

For Clare Barks, 45, keeping fit has always been a part of her life – but her real journey started in 2013 when she entered her first bodybuilding event.

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The goal for any serious bodybuilding competitor is to win a Pro-card, which allows you to compete internationally against other elite athletes.

On the 14th-15th of May 2022, Clare travelled to Ireland to take part in the IFBB Pro League Muscle Contest. It was a day never to be forgotten, as her incredible condition won her the prestigious IFBB Pro Card in the ‘Figure’ category.

Dorset Spotlight had the pleasure of chatting to Clare about her bodybuilding success.

DS: Hi Clare, congratulations on winning your pro-card; you must feel incredibly proud of your achievement. Tell us how you felt when you knew you had won the competition, and how did you celebrate your win?

CLARE: "Thank you. The moment they announced me as the new IFBB Figure Pro was a moment of overwhelming mixed emotions of disbelief, happiness, relief, excitement, and gratefulness. I loved the whole experience over in Ireland.

They ran the show extremely professionally and had a panel of judges who also judge at the prestigious Olympia each year - I'm really happy that I finally got awarded my IFBB Pro card at this particular event." dorsetspotlight.co.uk

DS: Full credit to you, at 45 years old, competing and winning in an open class against girls 20 years younger. How do you balance being a wife, mother and business owner and continue to smash it in the bodybuilding world year after year?

CLARE: "Age doesn't cross my mind. I still feel young and competitive against younger athletes, so it's irrelevant to me. I started competing in my 30s. By the time I decided to step on stage, my children were in school and were more independent, so it was much easier to fit my lifestyle around them. However, I have always been an independent person. My husband and I have been together from a young age, and he has always been in the military, which means that I am very used to being by myself, having my routine and getting on with things. I have also never let the fact that I have children stand in the way of doing anything that I've wanted to do for myself. I don't believe your life should stop after having children and just become about them. I feel it's beneficial to show them that too, and that you can achieve anything you set your mind to; at any age

CLARE BARKS

with the right mindset, work ethic and dedication."

DS: It must have been a special moment for your family too. How important is it to have a supportive network around you when competing?

CLARE: “To have people around you supporting you in whatever you want to achieve is extremely important. Bodybuilding is a very selfish sport and relies heavily on routine, structure, and time by yourself. You may have to miss social events, and there will be times when you are tired and feel the need to be by yourself.

Communication is key when competing. If you communicate to them why you feel or are acting the way you are and why you're doing it, then the people that matter will be there. I've said before that I'm very independent, as are my husband and children. We encourage each other to follow our dreams and to do things for ourselves. We don't need to live in each other's pockets, which is nice and takes any guilt or pressure away.”

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DS: What attracted you to bodybuilding compared to other sports?

CLARE: "I have always been active, played many sports and loved being competitive. I have played Netball, ran 100m Track at County level, ran a couple of marathons and thrown myself into many other sporting or challenging events throughout my life. However, from the moment I stepped foot into a gym in my teens, I immediately fell in love with weight training and from that day on, it's been a part of my life. In the beginning, I fitted it in alongside running and playing sports. When I decided to take bodybuilding seriously and compete, I fully transitioned to solely focussing on lifting weights."

DS: As a personal trainer, sports masseur, and online fitness coach, you must get asked for tips daily. What advice would you give to anyone thinking of stepping on stage to compete?

CLARE: "Yes, I do! Firstly, they need to fall in love with training.

Competing looks glamorous, and the stage pictures may look cool for Instagram, but it takes a lot of time, dedication, and passion.

Unless you genuinely love the training, to challenge yourself and have the time, money and discipline to put into it, then I would wait. The stage part wasn't what got me first interested in competing. I knew I loved lifting weights and experimenting with nutrition to change the way my physique looked, so that's what led me to fully immersing myself into the bodybuilding lifestyle at first. However, I also knew how competitive, determined and disciplined I could be, so that's what led me to competing. It can be incredibly rewarding for those who genuinely love it, but I would advise beginners to spend some time in the gym living the lifestyle before making the leap."

IDS: Tell us about your sponsor, Trained by JP? CLARE: “Trained by JP is a supplement and clothing brand. They also have an educational members forum in which I am a featured Athlete. I spend time every day answering questions, writing my Log, and submitting videos. I have been with them since 2018 and cannot thank them enough for the support they've given me. It's a highly reputable company, and I'm proud to be a part of the team.” (www. tb-jp.com Code CLARE10 for a discount on all Supplements and Clothing) DS: So, what's next for you - what are your future ambitions?

CLARE: “Right now, I'm enjoying the high of becoming a Pro! I have no immediate plans to step back on stage anytime soon, so I'm just going to have fun with my training, continue to live the lifestyle I love, and if in the near future, I feel I have made enough progress to be competitive on a Pro stage, then I will. I don't want to put any pressure on myself right now, so I will go with the flow and see what the future brings.”

Follow Clare on Instagram @clarebarkspt

CLARE BARKS

23 Dorset Spotlight, July/ august 2022

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TRY A NEW SPORT TENNIS With Wimbledon upon us, there is no better time to give tennis a try.

Whether you choose to play in doubles or singles, it’s the perfect social activity that combines having fun and improving your overall health, wellness, and happiness.

Tennis will not only improve your agility, flexibility, and balance, but it is also a great cardio workout – especially when playing singles.

Playing tennis is a great stress buster and a place to learn resilience through friendly competition.

What you need: ·Tennis Racquet ·An opponent / friend ·Tennis Balls ·Tennis shoes / trainers ·Tennis Court, marked out with a net ·The rules of play Once you have swotted up on how to play the game, you are ready to go.

But don’t worry, if you can’t get to your local court or your friend cancels on you, you can still practice your technique against a wall outside your house or in the park.

So, what are you waiting for?!

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Dorset Spotlight, july / august 2022 24

Dorset

SPOTLIGHT WITH JUNIOR REPORTER XANDER

KIDS / TEENS SHARE YOUR STORIES WITH US

INFO@DORSETSPOTLIGHT.CO.UK

FEATURE

EMILIA PLESTED TUMBLING TO SUCCESS Tumbling is a jaw-dropping type of gymnastics which sees the athlete explosively somersault, flip and twist their way down a 25-metre-long sprung track.

Emilia Plested, 12, recently won gold at the Southwest Regional NDP Tumbling Qualifier in Bristol, resulting in the Olga-trained athlete from Poole successfully securing her spot at the upcoming English Tumbling Championships in Telford this July.

Dorset Spotlight's Junior Reporter - Xander Exley, age 11, chats to Emilia about her recent success and future goals.

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DS KIDS - XANDER: Congratulations on winning a gold medal. Please tell me what you love about tumbling, and do you do any other types of gymnastics?

EMILIA: "What I love about tumbling - is that you can move your body in many creative ways, and when I am on the track, I feel so free - like I could rule the world. I also do artistic gymnastics and am part of the Southwest Region Women's Artistic Squad."

DS KIDS - XANDER: I've seen a video of you tumbling - you are great. How long did it take you to reach the level you are at now?

EMILIA: "I started tumbling when I was probably 8-9 years old, so about 3-4 years ago, and I've stuck to it since then."

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DS KIDS - XANDER: Have you ever made any mistakes when somersaulting through the air and hurt yourself?

EMILIA: "Yes, for sure. I have been through the doors of A&E many times, with sprains and twists. One time was a fracture to a bone in my foot, and I was left with a boot on my foot for six weeks, but I kept on training after I had fully recovered."

DS KIDS - XANDER: What do you do in your spare time; do you have any other hobbies?

EMILIA: "Gymnastics and tumbling are my main hobbies since they take up most of my time, but I do like to do a bit of art sometimes too."

DS KIDS - XANDER: Good luck at the English Tumbling Championships. Do you think you will be coming home with a gold medal again?

EMILIA: "I'm not sure, it's the biggest competition I've ever competed in, and with all the training and practice, I hope for the best."

EMILIA PLESTED

27 Dorset Spotlight, july/ august 2022

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DON'T GIVE UP ON THE PERSON YOU'RE BECOMING.

For more motivational quotes follow Dorset Spotlight on Instagram @dorset_spotlight dorsetspotlight.co.uk

Dorset Spotlight, july/august 2022 28

FEATURE

HARRY FRANKS Cricket is believed to have begun possibly as early as the 13th century. It is England's national summer sport and is played throughout the world in different countries such as Australia, India, Pakistan, and the West Indies.

To play cricket, you need two teams of 11 players. The objective is to score more runs (points) than the opposing team. A match is divided into innings during which one team bats, two batters at a time, and the other team bowls.

Talented young cricketer Harry Franks, age 11, is following in his father's footsteps and is currently playing county level cricket. Harry is the son of Ex- England cricket player Rob Franks (also in this issue) who had his leg amputated after sustaining a cricket injury.

DS KIDS XANDER: Hi Harry, tell us what you like about playing cricket?

HARRY: "I like the whole game, especially the teamwork. I love the banter between my friends, and I'm super competitive.”

29 Dorset Spotlight, July/ august 2022

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DS KIDS XANDER: Do you prefer to bat, bowl or field when playing cricket?

HARRY: "I love doing it all, but my favourite part is bowling. I love trying to work out how to get a batter out."

DS KIDS XANDER: Congratulations on winning the U'10's Bowler of the year at Parley Cricket Club? Have you won many trophies for playing cricket?

HARRY: "Yes, I've done well so far. I've won some competition trophies and awards for my batting and bowling. I've been playing since I was six, so cricket is one of the things I love to do the most."

DS KIDS XANDER: What do you like to do when you’re not playing cricket?

HARRY: "I like to spend time with my friends and family, and sometimes on my Xbox. I always want to practice cricket - but dad tells me to relax away from cricket sometimes and to think of other things."

DS KIDS XANDER: Could we see you one-day playing for England's cricket team?

HARRY: "I hope so. I would love to one day. I will work hard to try and succeed and be like my dad (only better) - note from dad, he's already so much better than I ever have been!”

HARRY FRANKS

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Upcoming Charity Events

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CHARITY

Dorset Spotlight, july / august 2022 31

Fantastic Fundraisers

CHARITY

FOCUS dorsetspotlight.co.uk

Fantastic Fundraisers

CHARLIE LICKISS & ARCHIE PARKS

BY ROSIE BECKHAM

"Myself (Charlie Lickiss) and my friend Archie Parks are attempting to run the height of Everest on the 6th of August 2022. It will involve running Hambledon Hill in Dorset up and down consecutively in one activity. A total distance of 168km and 8,848m in elevation. It should take us around 24 hours with no sleep. We are doing this challenge to raise money for the Young People’s Trust for the Environment (YPTE). They are an amazing trust based in Yeovil who aim to give young people a real awareness of issues such as climate change, pollution and deforestation.

We will need as much support as possible on the day, so feel free to come along and watch us attempt Everest (in Dorset). Base camp is at the Shroton Cricket Club. If you cannot attend but still want to show your support, you can donate to our Go Fund Me page by searching ‘Everest Running Challenge 2022’ on the GoFundMe website. Thanks for reading!"

Fundraiser by Archie Parks : Hambledon Everest Running Challenge 2022 (gofundme.com)

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SERIAL ADVENTURER

STEVE HOWARD

Steve Howard, 57, from Poundbury, is a serial adventurer.

COMPLETING HIS CHALLENGE NOW!

Currently, Steve is aiming to conquer the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route to raise money for Dorset Blind Association. The ride takes him along the Continental Divide, which runs the length of the Rockies: or at least the bit from Jasper, Canada, to the US/Mexico border at Antelope Wells.

Having undertaken a series of challenges over the years (various extreme ultra-marathons, an epic TransAmerica ride, a Banger Challenge to Timbuktu and last year's Land's End to John O'Groats Three Peaks Challenge), we think he might have finally topped it...

The GDMBR will require Steve to ride approx. 3,000 miles in just over two months - this is one insane challenge and one that Steve is doing solo and unsupported. This means he will July 2019 be carrying all his limited kit whilst hoping not to come too close to any grizzlies in what is nicknamed bear country!

Joking aside - this is a genuine and significant concern, particularly for those cycling alone. In doing so, he will criss-cross the Continental Divide (which gives the route its name) and negotiate over 200,000ft of elevation gain. Or, to put it another way, it's like cycling up Everest nearly seven times over the aforementioned 3,000 miles!

33 Dorset Spotlight, july/ august 2022

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This trip has been two years in the making (due to pandemic delays), and Steve has already overcome several unforeseen obstacles. On arrival in America, he was unluckily plucked from the crowd for a random Covid test which caused him to miss his transfer and set him back enormously on his carefully planned itinerary. Not to be disheartened (and let's face it, mental resilience is paramount for a challenge such as this!), Steve takes such wrinkles in his stride. Even almost succumbing to a rather frightening 'quicksand' swamp on the Elk pass when he and his bike were axle-deep in a bog. A close encounter with a bear, unseasonal storms and torrential rain are all other sidenotes to what promises to be an epic adventure. As Mike Tyson once sagely quoted: "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth". Luckily for Steve, his journey has also been peppered with human kindness, which has brought the necessary glimmer of sunshine to his trip!

This is a herculean challenge which Steve is doing for Dorset Blind Association. Please, please give generously! Follow @dorsetblind on Facebook to keep up with his progress. https://www.justgiving.com/fundr aising/stephen-howard13 www.dorsetblind.org.uk

STEVE HOWARD

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Dorset Spotlight, july/ august 2022 34

SHERBORNE GIRLS

"Sherborne Girls raised £3,160 for Yeovil Hospital’s Breast Cancer Unit Appeal. In February, girls and staff from one of the boarding houses at Sherborne Girls, Aldhelmsted East, took part in a four-hour danceathon to raise money for the Breast Cancer Unit Appeal at Yeovil Hospital. They chose to support Breast Cancer because one of their tutors was diagnosed with breast cancer last year and has since been bravely fighting the disease for several months. The event included Zumba, Irish dancing and many other group dances. The girls enjoyed coming together across year groups while raising money for such an important local cause. They were delighted to be able to make such a positive contribution to Yeovil Hospital.

Sherborne Girls raised £3,899 for regional homelessness charity, Alabaré. On Friday 4 March, girls and staff from one of the boarding houses at Sherborne Girls, Wingfield Digby, took part in ‘The Big Sleep’ in Salisbury to raise money for their chosen charity, Alabaré. For the past 14 years, Alabaré have supported homeless people across the South-West, directing funds raised to help those who have nowhere to turn. Girls from U5 (Year 11) and L6 (Year 12) spent the night outside Salisbury Cathedral with no more equipment than someone who would be sleeping rough. They kept themselves entertained with some lively games of cards before hunkering down for a very cold and noisy night. Although challenged by the freezing weather, the girls were extremely proud of their efforts, not least because their generous sponsors helped them raise nearly four thousand pounds for Alabaré. The girls plan to continue supporting the charity with future sleep outs.

35 Dorset Spotlight, july/ august 2022

S C H O O L F U N D R A I S E R S

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CHARITY FOCUS

JULIA'S HOUSE HOSPICE Julia’s House is your local children’s hospice, looking after the most seriously ill children in Wiltshire and Dorset. These children need 24 hour care for their complex and often rare medical conditions, which puts a huge amount of pressure on their families. Their conditions are often incurable and many are sadly not expected to live beyond early adulthood.

Our dedicated team of nurses, carers, therapists, family support workers and hospice doctors provide a lifeline of care. We offer clinical, emotional and practical support and essential respite breaks to give exhausted families time out from round-the-clock care, helping to prevent them from reaching breaking point.

Each family we support can tailor the care they receive in whichever way suits them best. Crucially, Julia’s House supports the whole family and not just the seriously ill child – we’re there for parents, siblings, grandparents. www.juliashouse.org

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JULIA'S HOUSE HOSPICE

JULIA'S HOUSE BIG JUMP 3 September 2022 Thrill seekers look no further, this is the challenge for you! Feel the adrenaline rush as you jump from 13,000 feet and reach speeds of up to 120mph as you raise money to support families with seriously ill children across Dorset and Wiltshire. You will freefall for a minute before your instructor releases your parachute and you glide towards the ground.

This is a tandem skydive so your instructor is in complete control of the jump throughout, all you need to do is kick back and enjoy the ride, taking in all the spectacular views on the way down.

The jump takes place at the Army Parachute Association airfield near Salisbury, SP4 9SF. Julia’s House will give you one-to-one support and join you on the day to watch you jump. All skydivers will receive a Julia’s House T-shirt, medal and access to a Facebook group.

Sign up by 19 August https://www.juliashouse.org/big-jump-2022-september

37 Dorset Spotlight, july / august 2022

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DIVERSE ABILITIES Fantastic Fundraiser Alex Day, 34 from Barton-on-Sea, completed The Fan Dance, a gruelling SASstyle of endurance in the Brecon Beacons.

Alex works for the Hoburne Group in Christchurch and took on the 24km hike over the Pen Y Fan mountain to support the company’s fundraising for Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity. His initial fundraising target was £300, but he smashed it and has so far raised over £500.

DIVERSE ABILITIES EVENTS Fireworks Cruise Thursday 25th August from 7pm An incredible opportunity to experience panoramic views and enjoy a chip supper from our deck and soak in the magnificent fireworks. Set sail aboard our vessel with a glass of prosecco on arrival and enjoy what the evening has to offer.

Adults: £25 Children: £15 Boat supper options from £5 diverseabilities.org.uk/fireworks

Rugby Lunch Friday 16th September from 12pm Diverse Abilities annual Rugby Lunch returns to Hoburne Holiday Park with special guest speakers David ‘Flats’ Flatman and Tom ‘Shanks’ Shanklin.

You can expect a delicious three course lunch, the chance to win incredible auction prizes, and all the stories and anecdotes you’d expect from two legends of Rugby Union. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Individual tickets: £65 - Table of 10: £600 diverseabilities.org.uk/rugby

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DORSET BLIND ASSOCIATION Fantastic Fundraiser Cliffe Tribe, from Christchurch, has been a volunteer guide runner for Dorset Blind Association for several years. This year he decided to experience how it feels to run if you are visually impaired whilst raising awareness and funds for Dorset Blind Association. Supported by guide runner John Baker (from Southbourne), Cliffe has set himself the challenge of running 10 park runs across the South whilst completely blindfolded.

The blindfold challenge will culminate at King's Gardens in Bournemouth on 2nd Jul. Please come down and show your support, and donate if you can. He has raised £635 and counting!

Fantastic Fundraiser Christine Smith, from Christchurch, is doing a charity skydive for Dorset Blind Association on 14th July. Not only does Christine volunteer weekly for DBA in their Christchurch shop in Saxon Square shopping centre, but now she is throwing herself out of a plane for the first time to raise money to help support the visually-impaired people of Dorset.

She has raised £431 so far!

DORSET BLIND EVENTS Dorset Blind Association's Motor Show at Lulworth Castle - Sunday 18th September The only motor show to be held on the picturesque grounds of Lulworth Castle returns for its 6th year. The event, sponsored by Dorset company, Hendy, is more than just a motor show. It is a family fun day with stalls, live entertainment, kids' activities and rides, food, and drink. The last event attracted over 3,500 attendees with 200 cars on display. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, so stick the date in your diary and get ourselves down there! For more info, to book cars to display, or stall pitches, email fundraising@dorsetblind.org.uk.

The event is FREE for the public to attend; the showground is open 11am-4pm.

39 Dorset Spotlight, july/ august 2022

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FOREST HOLME HOSPICE Fantastic Fundraiser

Fantastic Fundraisers

Maria ThomasLuker, from Poole, completed the 56km London to Brighton walk and has raised £1,800 so far this year through various challenge events.

Sara Diamond and her sister Katherine, from Poole, raised over £2,500 walking the 26 mile Jurassic Coast Challenge in memory of Sara's husband Stephen.

FOREST HOLME EVENTS

Return river cruise from Poole Quay to Wareham and back in time to enjoy the summer fireworks on August 25th.

Boarding from Poole Quay at 6.30pm, a fish n' chip supper will be served as the gentle ride takes you along the picturesque Wareham River.

There will be a quick stop off at Wareham Quay for a cheeky drink and then back on board in time to have enjoy unrivalled views of the Poole Quay summer fireworks before departing the boat at 10.15pm.

Tickets are £32 pp and include fish n' chips and live music, while there is also a bar on board serving drinks throughout the trip.

Please call 01202 670644 to book your tickets or email fundraising@forestholmehospice.org.uk dorsetspotlight.co.uk

Dorset Spotlight, july / august 2022 40

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