Special skiers from across the UK are to take part in the Welsh Open championships in Carmarthenshire on Saturday.

Nearly 60 athletes will compete in a variety of categories at the Pembrey dry ski slope.

Athletes will compete in a variety of classes

It is the second time the event has been held in Pembrey and will be the basis of selection for the Welsh team to compete at the UK Special Olympics in Scotland in the New Year.

Events are open to all ages and standards with categories including a 10 metre walk and glide for beginners up to a combined slalom/giant slalom for the more advanced.

Roger Bowen, Carmarthenshire's disabled sports development officer, said: " The standard is expected to be very high.

"Events like this one help enlighten and show the general public what disabled athletes can achieve in partnership with the enjoyment of the sport."

Organiser Roger Bowen expects a high standard of competition

Welsh athletes have an excellent record of success with four Carmarthenshire pupils having won medals - gold silver and bronze - at the World Winter games in Alaska last year.

They attended Llanelli's Ysgol Goffa, who once again will be well represented.

Special Olympics provides an excellent sporting platform for men and women with learning disabilities.

Ysgol Heol Goffa has developed a progressive curriculum to develop pupils' life skills through sport.

Opportunity

Phil Newell, the school's senior teacher said: "We haven't had much practice lately but we did win a few medals at a competition in England a couple of weeks ago.

"I think we'll do well despite the lack of practice.

"People are always amazed when they see the standard of our skiers.

"Skiing lets our young people show exactly what they are capable of given the chance."