Inspirational paracyclist Louis Rolfe is nominated for student prize

GB paracyclist Louis Rolfe, who powered his way to two medals at the Rio Paralympics, has won a place in the finals of the Association of Colleges Student of the Year award.

The 19-year-old sport studies student at Cambridge Regional College, one of just three students shortlisted for the award for students aged 19 and over, was picked for his inspirational “determination, spirit and motivation”.

Louis, who has cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus after being born 10 weeks prematurely, won gold in the team sprint – setting a new world record with partners Jody Cundy and Jon-Allan Butterworth – and individual bronze in the men’s C2 3,000m individual pursuit.

AoC President Ian Ashman said: “This year’s nominations for the Student of the Year Awards were of an exceptionally high standard and it is both humbling and heart-warming to see the impact that further education has on the lives of so many of its students.

“Louis’s determination, spirit and motivation are truly inspiring and make him a worthy contender for this national award.”

CRC faculty director Kate Da Costa, who nominated Louis, said his shortlisting was wonderful news.

“Louis takes his role as a learner at CRC as seriously as his role as a Paralympic athlete, and we are privileged to have him at CRC,” she said.

“He has had to push harder than most to achieve his dreams but he is always quick to volunteer to help where he can.

“He is a role model to students around the college and gives real strength to others who may be struggling. He meets challenges head on and doesn’t let his disabilities hold him back.”

The winners of the awards will be announced at a gala dinner on November 16.