Eric Pearce (athlete)

Eric Pearce (1936–1997) was an English Paralympic athlete, who represented Great Britain at the 1984 Summer Paralympics.[1]

For other people named Eric Pearce, see Eric Pearce (disambiguation).

Eric Pearce
Personal information
Born1936 (1936)
Nottingham, England
Died1997(1997-00-00) (aged 60–61)
Sport
Country Great Britain
SportParalympic athletics
Disability classL3
Medal record
Paralympic athletics
Representing  Great Britain
Paralympic Games
Gold medal – first place1984 New YorkDiscus throw L3
Silver medal – second place1984 New YorkShot put L3
Bronze medal – third place1984 New YorkJavelin throw L3

Biography

Pearce was born in Nottingham. After leaving school, he went to work at Gedling Colliery before joining the RAF. Eric spent 12 years in the RAF during which he was stationed in Cypress, Singapore, Darlington and the Isle of Man.

After leaving the RAF he returned to work at Gedling Colliery. During this time, he was involved in an accident whereby a roof collapsed on him, injuring his back and leaving him hospitalised for several months. He was unable to work again because he had trouble walking and was reliant on a wheelchair.

After the incident, he began helping disabled children with sports. He also started to train himself to have something to focus on. Eventually, he was offered a place on the team to represent Great Britain at the 1984 Summer Paralympics in New York City.

Soon after, he had a mild heart attack whilst on holiday in Las Vegas, ending his sporting career.

Pearce died on 31 March 1997 from pancreatic cancer. He was 61 years old.

References
  1. Results


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