A DETERMINED Greenock student has proved he has a ‘fighting spirit’ after being selected to represent the UK at the Special Olympics next year.

Rising judo star Harrison Lovett, who is a learner development student at Greenock’s West College Scotland, says he’s thrilled to be chosen to compete at the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi.

The 19-year-old, who is slowly losing his sight, was first introduced to the sport when he attended the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh. 

He said: “The attraction was to get fit, and the fact that you get to throw people about, but obviously in a disciplined manner.

“I really enjoy being part of a team, making new friends and getting the opportunity to travel to lots of different countries.”

Preparing for his biggest fight yet, Harrison will spend the next year mentally and physically preparing for his trip to Abu Dhabi, where he will take on athletes from all over the world. 

He added: “I’m really excited for the Special Olympics next year as it will be my first big GB event. 

“I’ll be training hard, which means additional days working on improving my fitness and technique. 

“I’ll still be competing throughout the year as well so I’m hoping I don’t get any injury setbacks.”

Last month Harrison picked up an array of medals including silver at the Scottish Judo Championships.