Bit of Variety for young city athlete

Earlier this year he travelled to Brisbane to compete in the Athletes with Disabilities Long Course Champs, bringing home silver for the 800m run, and recording two fifth places for the javelin and discus.

Jacob has also been accepted into the Waikato Academy for Young Achievers - a three year course to support the development of young athletes.

Jacob is a second year Gold Heart Scholarship recipient for Variety - The Children's Charity. This year his $2500 scholarship will help with international and national travel costs to compete in relevant sporting events.

Sports Force Athletics development officer Alan McDonald says Jacob is a model athlete. "He has been a dedicated and focused athlete, training all through the cold winter months," he says.

Jacob's goal is to represent New Zealand at the Paralympics in 2016.

Jacob's mum, Maree Phillips, says she would like to say a big thank you to Variety for granting Jacob his Gold Heart Scholarship for another year.

"Now that International competitions will play a big part in furthering Jacob's athletic career, the scholarship will be invaluable," she said.

Gold Heart Scholarships are available for up to three years to help Kiwi kids who are physically or financially challenged to fulfil their dreams. This could include assisting with tuition fees, personal development, coaching, and the purchase of training equipment, travel or accommodation.