Mickey Bushnell was born on June 8, 1990 in Telford, UK where he still resides today. He was born with a rare congenital disorder called lumbar sacral spinal agenesis, which means that the lower part of his spinal column and pelvis failed to fully develop. Mickey mainly uses his wheelchair for mobility outdoors, but can easily get around indoors by walking on his hands.

Despite Mickey's disability and his young age, he has accomplished some amazing feats in the world of adapted sports. He is a wheelchair athlete on the world-class development squad and is currently the fastest T53 wheelchair racer over 100m. The 100 m is his best event; however he takes part in wheelchair racing events up to 8 miles. Mickey also competed in the Tyne Tunnel 2k, which is possibly one of the world's fastest races. In addition to wheelchair racing, Mickey has also tried his hand at other sports such as rock climbing and canoeing.

Read the entire column at: http://www.ncpad.org/510/2408/Community~Voice~~RIC~Athlete~Profile~-~Mickey~Bushnell.