IPSWICH'S Matthew Baker insists he is on target for the 2012 Paralympics after his archery domination continued at the Norwich Union National Games at the weekend.

Stuart Watson

IPSWICH'S Matthew Baker insists he is on target for the 2012 Paralympics after his archery domination continued at the Norwich Union National Games at the weekend.

The 16-year-old, who is part of the GB development squad, bagged a third consecutive gold in archery and also made the podium for the 60m racing.

And the Copleston High School pupil, who belongs to Gipping Valley Archers, cannot wait to test himself on the biggest stage.

He said: “It is all going well on the road to 2012. That is a big ambition for me. I really want to be a part of it all.

“I'm in the GB development squad and will be throwing all my efforts into that in the coming months. They have high hopes for me and I am enjoying every minute of it.

“Winning a third straight gold was great but I won't get complacent about it. I know how special it would be to represent Britain and I want to make that dream a reality.

“I've tried fencing, shooting, shot put and discus but archery is still the one for me.”

The Ipswich teenager was one of 300 children from over 25 schools competing at the multi-sport event at Stoke Mandeville, the birthplace of the Paralympic Games in 1948.

And Baker believes the Team GB success in Beijing is providing him with extra motivation.

He said: “I enjoyed the Paralympics this summer and ended up watching a lot of it. I watched plenty of the rowing and, of course, I was gripped to the archery.

“It was really inspiring. Kate Murray was great and she is someone I would like to emulate if I can get to the Paralympics in London in four years' time.”

Norwich Union, through their partnership with WheelPower, continue to recognise talented children of all ages and disabilities. Find out more at www.joinourteam.com.