UK artisits honor Paralympics champion with exhibit

From UKPA:

A humbled Paralympic champion David Weir (pictured) said he was "truly honoured" at having an art exhibition in south London mark his success on the track.

Oil paintings, photos and sculptures from at least six different artists will be among the items paying homage to the wheelchair racer who aims to defend his 800m, 1500m titles plus win the 5,000m at London 2012.

The exhibition has been set up by Sutton Council where Weir, 31, was born and began training.

He said: "I am truly honoured that my borough has brought this event together and really looking forward to the exhibition.

"Sunday August 29 marks two years to the start of the Paralympics in London and I can't wait now; it's already two years since Beijing!"

The exhibition featuring work by artists including Jeremy Houghton, Richard Booth, Dominic Pearce, Sam Hunt and Teresa Witz will be held alongside an Olympic poster exhibition at Sutton Library from September 1 to October 31.

Weir was the only gold medal winner in Britain's athletics team at the Bird's Nest as he ended a 12-year wait for Paralympic glory.

Weir has continued to improve his times, although this summer he lost two world records to Marcel Hug of Switzerland.

Sutton Council's deputy leader Ruth Dombey said: "David is one of London's most successful athletes.

"This exhibition shows just how proud Sutton is of his achievements and will hopefully inspire more young people to follow his lead."