By Tom Degun

Sophie_PascoeMarch 16 - Sophie Pascoe (pictured), the triple Paralympic champion from New Zealand, is refusing to let the earthquake that decimated her home city ruin her dream of competing at London 2012.


The teenager, who lost one of her legs below the knee in a lawn-mower accident aged just two, became the youngest New Zealander ever to win a Paralympic medal in Beijing when she stormed to three gold medals and a silver.

However, Pascoe's Christchurch training base, the QEII swimming complex, was extensively damaged and has been earmarked for demolition after the February 22 earthquake.

But, determined to continue, 18-year-old Pascoe and coach Riley Crichton have relocated to Wanaka to continue training for the London 2012 Paralympics.

"The QEII swimming complex has been my second home," said Pascoe.

"That's where I have always trained.

"After the earthquake my coach Riley Crichton contacted me and said I should come to Wanaka to continue training.

"We expect to be here for two weeks and then we will probably go to Auckland.

"I really need access to a 50-metre pool.

"I can't let the earthquake make a hole in my dreams.

"Christchurch is crushed but dreams are not.

"The world can't stop - Riley and I both want to achieve this.

"I have a Paralympic dream to make the podium again - you can't hold back.

"It's also about inspiring Christchurch and showing you can move on."

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