Please Help Me To Qualify for the Rio Paralympics

Hi, my name is Scott Martlew. I am a 22 year old , Christchurch based para canoeist in the newly established KL3 category ( was until 2015, the LTA K1 200).

I am currently ranked 7th in the world and need to be in the top 6 to automatically qualify for Rio Paralympics in 2016. I have previously ranked 5th and I am very close.

I had a full leg amputation in 2010 following a muscle tear after a knock to the leg during a Shirley Boys High School rugby game curtain - raiser for a Crusaders match, which became infected with a flesh eating bacteria.

Prior to that, I was a national Surf Lifesaving and Dragon Boat champion and I continue to compete in National Surf Lifesaving competitions.

I have not let this stop me from aiming to be the very best in the sport I choose to compete in.

Funds raised will allow me to train in Europe prior to the World Champs and get acclimatised to give me the best chance possible. I have already managed to raise money towards my build up campaign in Europe for flights for myself, my coach and training partner from mid July to mid August but need another $4000 to pay for accommodation ( budget!) , a hire car, fuel and insurance.

The remaining $8000 is for my own Nero para canoe, paddles and specific modifications, for me to use in my training in New Zealand.This is critical to allow me to train in the boat I will be competing in.

The funding I receive from my national body covers competition fees and uniform.

I have been overwhelmed by the kindness of family, friends and strangers in helping me to achieve my goals and thank you in advance for supporting me.

I will give it everything I've got.

Cheers,

Scott