Team Fast Forward Bicycle Works have handed Paralympian Jessica Lewis a cheque for $7,750 to assist her in qualifying for the 2012 Paralympic Games to be held in London this summer.

The Team raised the funds by holding a 100 mile sponsored ride in extremely windy conditions two weeks ago. The senior riders were joined by the junior riders for the last 20 miles.

Lewis, a wheelchair athlete, will use the funds raised to offset the expenses incurred for travelling to, and competing in, various events in Canada and the US over the next two months.

Neil de ste Croix, who co-owns the team Grant Goudge, said: “It is great to help Jessica as she truly personifies what an athlete is and we are pleased to help her with her Olympic dream. She is a true inspiration to all athletes.”

Lewis, who competes in the 100, 200 and 400 metres, has made the B qualifying time but is looking to make the A time which will give her a guaranteed spot at the games. Anne Lindroth, president of the Bermuda Paralympic Association was on hand at the presentation.

Lewis said the sponsorship money would help her realise her dream of competing at the London Games.

“Track means the world to me and I am overjoyed with the support I am receiving to help me achieve my dream of competing at the London Paralympic Games.

“I will represent Bermuda with pride. I will be competing all summer to get ready for London and get my qualifying times. I will be travelling to different parts of Canada and the US.”

The Bermudian will be stepping up her qualifying bid by competing at the Dixie Games held in Tampa, Florida, the Desert Challenge in Arizona, the Junior Nationals also held in Arizona, the Canadian Nationals in Calgary and Boiling Point in Windsor Ontario.